Sustinere and its partners' reforestation project is in the Choco, Colombia, one of the world's most biodiverse areas, with more than 8,000 species of plants and 600 species of birds. In the 2000s, the Choco suffered 60% of the deforestation in Colombia, due to mining and logging. The project will restore 100 hectares of forest that will benefit 100 families with fruit trees and medicine plants. Trees will absorb 15,000t of carbon, create a group of 50 women entrepreneurs and educate children.
Climate experts state that deforestation in tropical regions like the Choco accelerate desertification of soils and global warming. Moreover, almost 500 animals and 2,000 local plant species are now endangered. In the Choco 85% live below the poverty line, with a 32% illiteracy rate, and only 38% of teenagers going to high school. Women and girls are particularly affected, 40% of households are single mothers. The population is mostly Afro-colombian and have been historically disadvantaged.
We recognize reforestation through analog forestry as a cross-sectoral solution to restore degraded areas, reverse biodiversity loss, absorb carbon, slow down global warming, decontaminate soil and water, build health resilience, while also alleviating poverty and empowering the black community, by including trees that yield fruits and medicinal plants for community needs. Groups of women entrepreneurs will be created, while project benefits will prioritize on vulnerable black households.
This project will: restore 100 hectares of tropical forest, protect over 2000 species of plants and animals, sequestrate 15,000 tons of carbon, produce 10 edible fruit plant and 10 medicinal plant species for local communities, create a group of 50 black women entrepreneurs, increase by 20% the household income of 100 black families, increase by 20% economically independent women, and by 50% health resilience. Will train children and youth in agroforestry, medicinal plants & sustainability.
This project has provided additional documentation in a DOCX file (projdoc.docx).
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