The Andes

In the Andes, cataracts, eye cancer and migration of communities due to UV radiation are widespread issues.

The operational area stretches from Peru, along the Cordillera Real in Bolivia, to the Atacama desert.

In 2017 we deployed our first mission to the Andes.

The geological and climatic conditions are very similar to those in the Himalayas. In some seasons the harmful effect of the UV radiation reaches historic highs. Scientists in the Andes measured UV exposure, which was as high as on planet Mars.

The World Health Organization warns against spending time outside when the UV index tops 12. In 2003, a UV-B value of 43.3 has been measured. That’s over 3 times more than the critical value of 12.

We count on your support to help the Andean communities keep their eyesight.

15°59'59.4"S 68°18'31.5"W

Bolivia

The Aymara people inhabit the dry high-plateau stretching beside lake Titicaca basin and the Cordillera Real.

Culturally, the Aymaras celebrate the mother goddess Pachamama (Earth) - for a good reason. The area is home of infamous and famous peaks and of millions of wild alpacas roaming around between lakes, wide mesas and glaciers. 

In 2017 we distributed over 2,000 sunglasses in this area and we look to make the area a new focus area of SHADES OF LOVE in 2024.

12°46'45.8"S 74°52'06.2"W

Peru

In Peru we have been distributing sunglasses in the remote Jauja region.

In about 3.000 to 6.500 meters above sea level we have equipped thousands of potato farmers, alpaca herders and school children with sunglasses.

We are currently looking for partner hospitals and organisations to help us with storage space in Peru. Please contact us, if you can help.

22°56'03.8"S 67°40'17.6"W

Chile

The Atacama desert is one of the driest spots on Earth. Salt lakes, rock formations and the soil colour make it look like Mars. The Atacama stretches along most of Chile and is located at around 2.500 meters on average.