Safeguarding Colombia’s Forests and Coastal Ecosystems

What the project does.

This extensive conservation initiative aims to protect Colombia’s rainforests, coastal mangroves, and marine ecosystems. Spanning 83,452 hectares in Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, the project safeguards critical watersheds, river systems, and coastal habitats that are essential for both biodiversity and local communities.

The region’s mangrove forests and estuarine ecosystems play a vital role in carbon sequestration, shoreline protection, and marine biodiversity. Within the project area, 3,627 hectares of blue carbon mangroves serve as one of the world’s most effective carbon sinks, storing more carbon per hectare than tropical rainforests and providing crucial nursery grounds for fish, crustaceans, and marine vertebrates, including sea turtles and coastal birds.

The project actively works to prevent illegal timber extraction and land conversion while restoring mangrove and coastal ecosystems. Through community-led conservation efforts, sustainable fishing initiatives, and enhanced governance, the project promotes both climate resilience and marine resource protection.

Avoided Unplanned Deforestation & Degradation (AUDD) REDD+

What it supports.

• Preserving 3,627 hectares of blue carbon mangroves, which provide essential habitat for marine species and help stabilize shorelines.
• Reducing deforestation pressures across 83,452 hectares, preventing further degradation of water sources, estuaries, and critical wetlands.
• Safeguarding coastal and marine biodiversity, including habitats for crocodiles, turtles, migratory birds, and fisheries.
• Promoting sustainable fishing practices, reducing overexploitation, and supporting local fishers with conservation-friendly techniques.
• 1131 people trained in land-use governance, sustainable fisheries, and conservation.
• 34 families supported through sustainable cocoa farming and community-based fisheries management.
• 28 women empowered through training programs, including those in marine conservation and sustainable seafood practices.
• Creation of marine conservation zones, ensuring local fish stocks remain sustainable for future generations.
• Hiring local teams for mangrove restoration, marine monitoring, and forest patrols.
• Training 300 individuals in sustainable aquaculture, coastal resilience, and fisheries management.
• Supporting women-led economic initiatives, including eco-tourism, sustainable seafood production, and conservation-based entrepreneurship.