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After 45 years in large companies, Peter Estermann swapped the financial market for the conservation of the Atlantic Forest in Lumiar, where he already monitors 230 species
Peter Estermann exchanged, at the end of 2025, the routine of 45 years leading large companies for a conservation project in Lumiar, a district of Nova Friburgo, in Rio de Janeiro, where he restores the Atlantic Forest and monitors 230 species.
From the presidency to the refuge in Lumiar
After a career in large companies and the financial market, Peter Estermann decided to change his life.
The former executive began dedicating his days to birdwatching and preserving the Atlantic Forest in Lumiar, a district of Nova Friburgo.
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The location is in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, a little over 260 km from the capital. There, the old office gave way to the landscape of the mountains, the movement of hummingbirds, and the metallic song of the araponga.
Peter stated that the change represents a new turn. According to him, opening the window and looking at things that bring pleasure, happiness, and fulfillment has started to make more sense at this stage of life.
Change began before retirement
The transition to birdwatching and conservation began to be outlined four years before the official retirement, which occurred at the end of 2025.
The decision, according to Peter, resonates with childhood experiences and the continuity of that bond.
Originally from northern Mato Grosso and trained in agronomy, he started his career in agribusiness. Later, he worked in the polymer transformation industry, wood, health, and retail, ending the cycle as an executive in the financial area.
In the mornings of reflection, Peter said, the idea of entering the birdwatching activity emerged. He mentioned that the environment in Lumiar was very positive for this.
Project combines restoration in the Atlantic Forest and monitored fauna
The refuge in Lumiar is not just contemplative. In an area equivalent to a parking lot for 2,500 cars, Peter has already planted more than 1,500 native fruit trees to attract fauna and strengthen the Atlantic Forest.
The monitoring cameras recorded the presence of margay, nine-banded armadillo, coati, and black-eared opossum on the property.
Among the birds, he highlights the white-throated hummingbird, the swallow tanager, and the rare garden araponga.
The white-throated hummingbird can flap its wings up to 40 times per second. The swallow tanager, with its vibrant blue, has been compared to the Brazilian national team’s uniform. The garden araponga has been described as an enigma of the forests.
Daily care and new idea of gain
Peter also adopts specific care in the management of the animals. He uses glass waterers to avoid fungi and bacteria, as well as special bases that prevent access by ants and bees. The water is changed every day.
Today, the old logic of profitability has been replaced by another measure. Peter transformed his passion into a small inn focused on welcoming and connecting with nature. For him, the greatest gain happens when these visitors arrive.
In advocating for the preservation and recovery of degraded areas, Peter summarizes the new meaning of his routine. In the Atlantic Forest, the growth of a tree has become more valuable than any market fluctuation, and the chorus of birds has become his important asset.
With information from G1.
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