Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos launch $200 million plan to save endangered species

Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos launch a $200 million project to protect 100 endangered species across 30 countries

Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos have joined forces to launch a major conservation initiative aimed at protecting endangered species around the world.

DiCaprio’s environmental organisation Re:wild and the Bezos Earth Fund have introduced the Phoenix Species Project, a $200 million programme focused on recovering wildlife populations at risk of extinction.

The initiative will support conservation efforts for 100 endangered species across 30 countries, covering a wide range of animals and plants, including mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, fish, invertebrates and plant species. The project will focus on habitats ranging from oceans and forests to volcanic landscapes, while working closely with Indigenous communities, local organisations, scientists and conservation experts.

The Phoenix Species Project represents one of the largest single philanthropic commitments dedicated specifically to recovering critically endangered species. The Bezos Earth Fund will contribute $100 million to the initiative, while Re:wild will match the funding through support from Leonardo DiCaprio, Age of Union and the Todd Graves Family Foundation.

Unlike short-term conservation grants, the programme aims to provide long-term investment to accelerate species recovery and create sustainable protection strategies. More than 100 local and international partners will lead efforts tailored to the specific needs of each species and ecosystem.

The initiative also supports the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including efforts to prevent extinctions and improve the conservation status of threatened species worldwide. The project will work alongside organisations such as the IUCN Species Survival Commission and the Reverse the Red Action Partnership.

Founded in 2021 by Leonardo DiCaprio, Dr. Wes Sechrest and conservation scientists, Re:wild focuses on protecting biodiversity and restoring threatened habitats. The Bezos Earth Fund, established by Jeff Bezos, supports environmental solutions through global partnerships and conservation programmes.