How does Wilderness International persuade landowners to sell their land? After all, industries could pay more.
Securing land that is attractive for industrial purposes such as deforestation or mining requires a combination of strategic approaches and convincing arguments that go beyond purely monetary incentives. Success is based on a combination of environmental, social, and long-term perspectives, which are often more important to sellers than short-term profits. To this end, we often spend months or even years in discussions with potential sellers. Here are the most important approaches:
Legally compliant and long-term protection
Wilderness International guarantees that after purchase, the land will be used exclusively for nature conservation and will be permanently preserved in its original state. Many landowners, especially indigenous communities or people with a connection to nature, want to ensure that their land is not used for environmentally harmful industrial purposes. This confidence in long-term protection sets Wilderness apart.
Collaboration with local communities
Wilderness International works closely with local and indigenous communities to respect and incorporate their interests. Indigenous landowners, for example, often prefer partners who support their culture and way of life rather than industries that would exploit the land. The organization often offers additional support programs, such as education or sustainable income opportunities, that bring long-term benefits to communities.
Arguments for environmental and social responsibility
Industries often have short-term interests, such as timber harvesting, agriculture, or mining. Wilderness International, on the other hand, emphasizes the long-term value of forests: as CO₂ sinks, habitats for animals and plants, and sources of clean water and air. Many landowners see the value of their land not only in economic gain, but also in its importance for the environment, future generations, and the preservation of biodiversity.
Financial security through donation model
Wilderness International often offers immediate and fair payments. This is particularly important in regions where landowners have no financial reserves and need the proceeds from the sale quickly. Industries, on the other hand, often negotiate for longer, offer delayed payments, or try to drive down the price.
Trust and partnerships
The organization builds trust through transparent communication and by demonstrating that it actually protects the land and does not resell it for economic purposes. Partnerships with renowned local organizations and governments further strengthen landowners' trust.
No destruction of land or culture
Landowners, especially indigenous communities, are often skeptical of industries that could extract raw materials from their land or destroy it. Wilderness International guarantees that the land will remain untouched, which is an important argument for most landowners.
Emotional connection to nature
Many landowners have a personal or cultural connection to their land. They often make a conscious decision not to sell to industries that could destroy this connection, preferring buyers such as Wilderness International who respect the value of nature.