Maranhão May Gain New 17 km² Environmental Reserve Focused on Social Impact and Research
Located in Alcântara, the Terras de Timbotuba project by Shipping Protection aims to protect biodiversity and generate jobs for local communities.
São Luís, February 2026
Shipping Protection is in the process of obtaining recognition for the Terras de Timbotuba Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN), dedicated to biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and social development for surrounding communities. The initiative covers an area of 17 square kilometres, reinforcing the company’s commitment to ESG practices and generating positive, lasting impact in the region.
The project represents a strategic milestone in the company’s socio-environmental actions, as the only company worldwide certified as a B Corp – recognition granted to organisations meeting rigorous international standards for social, environmental, governance, and transparency impact. The initiative consolidates an integrated vision of ecological preservation, social development, and corporate responsibility, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and strengthens Shipping Protection’s positioning in valuing Brazil’s natural heritage.
“The creation of the RPPN Terras de Timbotuba translates our conviction that sustainability must be practical, continuous, and transformative. We are talking about protecting ecosystems, stimulating scientific knowledge, and at the same time contributing directly to strengthening the region’s social fabric,” states Renato Lemos, ESG Coordinator at Shipping Protection and project spokesperson.
The RPPN is being designed as a permanent space for protecting local fauna and flora, ensuring the preservation of a territory vital for Maranhão’s biodiversity. Once officially recognised, the reserve will enable expanded actions for environmental monitoring and support for academic and scientific initiatives.
Currently, the creation process is in the submission phase with the competent environmental agencies, awaiting formal approval from the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and other government bodies.
Socioeconomic Impact
Shipping Protection’s commitment to the ESG agenda extends beyond the environmental sphere. As a central part of the project, the company also plans to build a private school in the region, offering full scholarships for children and adolescents from neighbouring communities.
The initiative reinforces education as an essential pillar for sustainable development and shared opportunities.
“There is no full preservation without social inclusion. Education is one of the most solid paths to transform realities and build a future where everyone grows together,” highlights Renato Lemos.
Already, the project is promoting concrete changes in the territory. Shipping Protection employs local residents, ensuring fair wages, structured benefits, and dignified working conditions, strengthening the regional economy and expanding productive inclusion. The company’s actions translate into effective measures, with updates on the RPPN’s progress and socio-environmental actions shared on its institutional channels and via a dedicated Instagram page (@rppn.shippingprotection), reinforcing its commitment to transparency and dialogue with society.