Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, a prominent global law firm, has recently played a pivotal role in assisting Re:wild, a leading conservation nonprofit, in acquiring a majority stake in Guafo Island, Chile. This strategic move, executed on a pro bono basis, marks a significant milestone in global conservation efforts.

Guafo Island, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, is set to be transformed into a Chilean National Park, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The acquisition was orchestrated in collaboration with a group of philanthropic donors, emphasizing a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.

Re:wild, which counts conservation experts and the famed actor Leonardo DiCaprio among its founders, focuses on large-scale wild restoration and protection. The organization has designated Guafo Island as a Key Biodiversity Area, vital for its unique ecosystems and rich wildlife diversity. The ultimate goal is to donate the island to the Chilean government, securing its conservation in perpetuity.

“This vital place is conserved for future generations,” Re:wild stated, highlighting the island’s global ecological importance and its contribution to the health of our planet. The initiative has garnered support from various Chilean conservation and Indigenous groups, underlining the broad-based support for the project.

Guillermo Scallan, board president of Corporación Cultiva, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative: “We are excited about this opportunity for Chile. We thank Re:wild for taking the first step and are proud to be a part of the next steps in this project.”

Following the purchase, WWF Chile was invited to bolster the initiative. Ricardo Bosshard, the director of WWF Chile, emphasized the collaborative approach: “Our aim is to support and strengthen these initiatives, and we will actively promote a consultative participation process with Indigenous communities and other local stakeholders."

The legal expertise for this significant transaction was provided by Akin Gump’s team led by partner Alan Laves and included professionals Nick Houpt, Eduardo Canales, and Claire Beaty. Local legal counsel was provided by Chilean law firm Carey.

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, established in 1945, is recognized globally for its dedication to complex transactions, litigation, and policy advocacy, with a strong emphasis on environmental and social impact initiatives.

This acquisition not only signifies a monumental step in preserving one of the planet's most vital ecosystems but also showcases the power of collaborative philanthropy and expert legal guidance in advancing global conservation goals.