Born and raised in New York City, Adam Gebb began his academic journey by earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on International Marketing from Northeastern University in Boston. However, his passion lay in environmental conservation, prompting him to shift directions. In 1989, Adam pursued further ethno-ecology and tropical ecology studies at San Francisco State University, which led him to Northern Thailand. There, he gained a profound understanding of tropical ecosystems and the intricate relationships between Indigenous communities and their environments. During this time, he witnessed firsthand the disconnect between government-led conservation initiatives and the needs of local communities. This transformative experience reshaped his conservation philosophy, guiding his future endeavors in prioritizing collaborative, community-driven approaches.

A Shift in Conservation Philosophy

During his time in Thailand, Adam saw the disconnect between top-down conservation strategies and the realities local communities face. This realization became a turning point in his career, as he recognized that meaningful and lasting conservation efforts must involve the communities that have long maintained these ecosystems. From this point on, Adam's work emphasized partnership with Indigenous peoples, acknowledging their deep knowledge and stewardship of the land. His approach centers on co-created conservation solutions, with an unwavering focus on maintaining biodiversity through collaboration, which has become the hallmark of his environmental leadership.

Founding Andes Amazon Conservancy and Expanding Impact

In 2018, Gebb made a bold move that aligned with his conservation vision, relocating to Ecuador to found the Andes Amazon Conservancy. As Executive Director, he focused on empowering Indigenous nations such as the Shuar, Kichwa, Shiwiar, and Sapara in efforts to protect some of the most biodiverse rainforests on Earth. His work centers around landscape connectivity, a concept vital to ensuring wildlife can migrate freely between their habitats, significantly as deforestation and infrastructure development disrupt natural corridors. One of his significant achievements is the establishment of a 300-kilometer wildlife migration corridor, connecting the Andes and Amazon ecosystems, ensuring that wildlife can continue to migrate, thrive, and maintain ecological balance in the face of growing environmental pressures.

A Commitment to Food Sovereignty and Sustainable Land Use

A central theme in Adam Gebb's conservation work in Ecuador is the concept of food sovereignty. Many Indigenous territories are suffering from ecological degradation caused by road construction and deforestation, threatening traditional food sources. Recognizing this, Adam partners with local leaders to develop sustainable land-use strategies incorporating agriculture and edible forests, integrating human food security and wildlife conservation. His work aims to create interconnected networks that allow wildlife to thrive and ensure local communities have access to sustainable food sources. The Edible Forest Program, a key initiative under his leadership, focuses on replanting forest corridors with diverse edible species, offering a dual benefit: conserving biodiversity and enhancing food sovereignty for Indigenous communities.

Groundbreaking Research and Advocacy for Conservation

Throughout his career, Adam has conducted groundbreaking research in the Ecuadorian Amazon, shedding light on the vital role of wildlife migration corridors in preserving biodiversity. His studies have provided invaluable insights into how deforestation and development impact forest communities, urging the need for effective wildlife migration networks. Through his advocacy, Adam has influenced both local and international conservation policies, impacting efforts to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Andes and Amazon regions. His work continues to inspire and inform conservation strategies to mitigate ecological degradation and foster more sustainable land use.

Recognition Through the Earth Shot Prize Nomination

In 2024, Gebb's efforts were recognized when he was nominated for the prestigious Earthshot Prize, which celebrates innovative solutions to environmental challenges. His nomination directly reflected the success of Andes Amazon Conservancy's Indigenous-led conservation initiatives and the organization's efforts to integrate wildlife migration with sustainable land-use practices. The Earthshot Prize nomination underscored the significance of Adam's work, highlighting the potential of Indigenous-led conservation to balance the needs of growing human populations with biodiversity protection. This recognition further solidified Adam's position as a global conservation movement leader.

Personal Interests and Outdoor Adventures

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Adam Gebb is an avid outdoorsman with a deep passion for exploring the wilderness. With over 40 years of experience in backpacking, kayaking, and backcountry skiing, he has developed a rich understanding of the natural world. His skills in wildlife tracking, sustainable forestry, and map-making have been instrumental in his conservation work, allowing him to identify areas of high ecological value for protection. Adam's knowledge of temperate and subtropical ecosystems and his expertise in backcountry navigation have played a crucial role in pinpointing critical conservation areas in large landscapes. He is also an enthusiast of sailing and organic gardening, further reflecting his commitment to sustainability and the environment.  

Learn More:  Adam Gebb: Wildlife Road Crossings Are Essential for Creating Conservation Networks