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2026 E+E Leader Awards — Recognizing Measurable Results in Sustainability and Energy
AVI-SPL2026 Winner — Environmental Impact (Project Category)
AVI-SPL Ecuador Amazon UN REDD+ and Biodiversity Project
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Award Citation
“AVI-SPL’s Ecuador Amazon project stands out as a meaningful and collaborative conservation initiative, combining measurable environmental impact with strong engagement of Indigenous communities. With significant acreage protected and a framework aligned to recognized standards, it demonstrates a credible, forward-looking model for corporate investment in nature-based solutions, with long-term outcomes that will be important to track as the project matures.”
Executive OverviewAVI-SPL’s Ecuador Amazon UN REDD+ and Biodiversity Project represents a defining step in corporate climate leadership. Launched in 2025 with 2050 Advisors, the initiative protects more than 348,000 acres of old-growth rainforest within Shuar Indigenous territory, addressing deforestation and biodiversity loss in one of the world’s most critical ecosystems. By directly investing in conservation rather than purchasing credits, AVI-SPL has established a proactive, science-based approach to environmental stewardship. This initiative demonstrates how a global technology company can lead with purpose, combining innovation, accountability, and partnership to deliver long-term climate and ecological value. Aerial view of protected Amazon rainforest within Shuar territory, where conservation efforts focus on preserving biodiversity, strengthening ecosystem resilience, and supporting Indigenous stewardship.
Part of the E+E Leader Awards Insider Series
Awards Insider FeatureChallengeDeforestation and biodiversity loss continue to accelerate globally, with Ecuador’s Morona-Santiago region facing some of the highest levels of environmental pressure. This landscape sits at a critical tipping point, where continued degradation would have lasting ecological and climate consequences. At the same time, expectations for corporate sustainability have evolved. Organizations are now expected to deliver measurable, science-based outcomes that extend beyond traditional offset strategies. For AVI-SPL, the challenge was both external and internal. Entering the conservation space required establishing credibility within complex regulatory frameworks, including REDD+ standards, while also building trust with Indigenous communities. The company chose 2050 Advisors to lead project development while aligning environmental objectives with social responsibility and long-term financial integrity. This required a new model that integrates global ESG commitments with local stewardship, while ensuring transparency, compliance, and measurable results. InnovationAVI-SPL’s approach redefines how corporations participate in climate solutions. Rather than acting as a passive participant, the company co-initiated and funded the project with its developer alongside Indigenous partners and renowned scientific leaders, embedding accountability from the outset. The initiative leverages advanced monitoring, reporting, and verification methods to ensure precision and transparency. Technologies such as drone imaging, environmental DNA sampling, bioacoustic monitoring, and AI-driven analytics provide a comprehensive view of carbon, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. These scientific methods are paired with Indigenous knowledge, with cultural as well as ecological indicators guiding conservation priorities and reinforcing long-term stewardship. In addition, the project introduces a dual-credit framework. It’s among the first to seek verification of both carbon and biodiversity credits under Verra’s SD VISta Nature Framework, linking emissions reduction with biodiversity protection. It’s the company’s goal that this model provides a scalable blueprint for corporate-led investment in Nature-based Solutions (NbS). ImpactThe initiative delivers measurable environmental and social outcomes at scale. It protects 348,420 acres of Amazon rainforest and is projected to prevent more than 1,000,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions within the first six years. Early field data further indicates improved water retention and reduced soil erosion, strengthening ecosystem resilience. Biodiversity is actively monitored through seven defined indicators, supporting long-term ecological health. The project also creates meaningful community impact. 40 Shuar leaders have been trained in advanced monitoring and data practices, and approximately 63% of generated carbon credits remain with the community to fund conservation and sustainable livelihoods. This initiative shows that corporate leadership can extend beyond a company’s own operations. When strategic investment is paired with accountability and partnership, it can deliver measurable environmental progress, support local communities, and help redefine the standard for private-sector climate action.
![]() Company SnapshotFounded: 1979 Headquarters: Tampa, Florida, USA Focus: Global leader in integrated AV solutions Website: http://www.avispl.com/ Impact Metrics348,000+ acres of old-growth Amazon rainforest protected, preserving critical biodiversity and ecosystem health
40 Shuar territory leaders executed Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) agreements ensuring Shuar terms guide project development
63% of future carbon or nature credits retained by Indigenous communities, directly funding conservation efforts and sustainable livelihoods
Connect With CompanyAward DetailsYear: 2026
Category: Environmental Impact
Entry Type: Project
Recognition: Winner
Judged By Industry ExpertsEntries are evaluated by an independent panel of leaders across energy, sustainability, EHS, operations, and finance, using a standardized scoring framework focused on measurable impact, innovation, and scalability. Meet the 2026 JudgesExplore the Awards |