International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF), a global leader in scent, taste, and bioscience innovation, has announced a groundbreaking bioprospecting partnership with Reservas Votorantim (rV), the green economy division of Brazilian investment firm Votorantim SA. The collaboration centers on Legado das Águas, Brazil’s largest private Atlantic Forest reserve, spanning over 31,000 hectares.

Under the agreement, IFF and its subsidiary LMR Naturals will gain exclusive access to the reserve’s native flora, enabling the development of novel, sustainable extracts for perfumery and cosmetics. A new research facility will be built within rV’s site, bringing together IFF perfumers, flavorists, botanists, and agronomists to study nearly 1,000 plant species.

“This partnership allows us to sustainably source fresh and inspiring ingredients from one of the planet’s most ecologically unique biomes,” said Charbel Bouez, Senior Vice President of R&D for IFF Scent. “Combining rV’s community-rooted stewardship with LMR’s expertise in natural ingredients opens new frontiers for fragrance innovation.”

The initiative marks IFF’s first bioprospecting venture in Brazil and reinforces the country’s role as a hub for biodiversity-driven innovation. It also supports rV’s “Multiple Land Use” strategy, which integrates conservation, scientific research, and sustainable business development.

David Canassa, CEO of Reservas Votorantim, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership: “We believe this initiative will show how conservation can be an ally in creating innovation and opportunity. Our genetic bank of Atlantic Forest species is a powerful tool for advancing both science and sustainability.”

Beyond ingredient development, the partnership includes community outreach programs focused on conservation best practices and the cultivation of native plants with commercial potential. With rising global demand for renewable ingredients and Brazilian “super botanicals,” this alliance positions Legado das Águas as a model for ecological entrepreneurship and scientific excellence.