The Program of Sustainable Development - PRODESUDE, took place over 17 years, based on the idea of creating a biodiversity corridor in the State of Rio de Janeiro/ The program was aimed at the protection and restoration of the Atlantic Forest on private lands surrounding of the most important conservation areas in the northern mountainous region of the state. Coordinated by Pro-Natura International in partnership with diverse local public and private entities. the initiative had financial support from White Martins Industrial Gases, Ford Foundation and Summit Foundation.

Using Demonstration Units (DUs) implemented on plots ceded by landowners, techniques were being tested to reduce the pressure of agropastoral activities on native forest remnants, as well as testing reforestation methods for recuperation of degraded lands. Several project nurseries now produce seedlings for reforestation with native species, with the aim to distribute these to landowners to unite forest fragments on their lands, forming a biodiversity corridor (locally known as "cordão de mata").

With the support of research and extension organizations, techniques are applied for protection of riparian forest, pasture improvement, and increased cattle herd quality. The results have been striking, as much for the producer as for the environment. By preserving natural resources, the owner gets an increasing economic result, besides improving quality of life for themselves,and the community as well as the quality of the products. Landowners were also stimulated to create Natural Private Patrimony Reserves (RPPN).

At the same time, environmental education programs were conducted, including a training program for the students of the locals schools and partners at the University, at Pro-Natura's Research Center, located in the city of Conceição de Macabú. The project also offers seminars, workshops, and technical advisory services to local producers, spreading new techniques and knowledge of sustainable economic alternatives.

Institution-building actions were taken with community organizations and producer associations to prepare them to pursue efficient and autonomous activities toward environmental protection and sustainable development.