The International Pernambuco Conservation Initiative USA
is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the conservation
and sustainable use of Caesalpinia echinata, Brazil's national
tree, commonly known as pau brasil or pernambuco.

Pernambuco has been used in the making of bows for over
250 years, enhancing the performance of stringed music for generations. The wood's native habitat in Brazil's Atlantic Rainforest has been reduced to fragments of its original extent. Today, pernambuco is increasingly rare and endangered in many areas of its native habitat.

IPCI is working to ensure the future of stringed instrument music by increasing scientific knowledge of pernambuco and restoring the species as a fundamental part of the Brazilian landscape. We support research, replanting programs, educational outreach and other conservation measures.