Guardians of the Mountain | Matias Alejandro Acuña

Every year, thousands of native forests around the world are devoured by flames, with catastrophic results. This project looks at the increase in forest fires in Patagonia, Argentina – a reflection of climate change globally. The region in which the 2,260m-high Piltriquitrón can be found is home to the Mapuche indigenous community. Like their ancestors, they are connected to nature, and live without electricity or fresh water on tap. They are also the first responders to any forest fire, risking their lives, using only the most basic equipment, and fighting to defend their land in temperatures that can reach as high as 60°C.