Colombian conflict survivors turn forest heroes in search of climate change solutions
November 16, 2024
Former combatants in Colombia’s decades-long civil war are joining forces to protect the country’s forests and fight climate change.
The initiative, known as the “Forest Guardians Program,” is a partnership between the Colombian government, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and the World Bank. It aims to provide former combatants with training and resources to establish and manage sustainable forest enterprises.
The program is part of Colombia’s broader efforts to implement the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include a goal to “protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.”
According to the UNDP, the Forest Guardians Program has already trained over 1,000 former combatants in sustainable forest management practices. These practices include reforestation, agroforestry, and ecotourism.
One of the participants in the program is Jairo, a former guerrilla fighter who spent 15 years in the Colombian jungle. After demobilizing, Jairo struggled to find work and support his family. But through the Forest Guardians Program, he has learned how to grow and sell sustainable crops, such as coffee and cacao.
“This program has given me a new lease on life,” said Jairo. “I am now able to provide for my family and contribute to my community.”
The Forest Guardians Program is not only helping former combatants to rebuild their lives, but it is also playing a vital role in protecting Colombia’s forests. The country has one of the highest rates of deforestation in the world, due to factors such as logging, mining, and agriculture.
By establishing and managing sustainable forest enterprises, the Forest Guardians are helping to reduce deforestation and protect the environment. They are also providing a valuable service to their communities, by providing employment and income.
The Forest Guardians Program is a success story in the fight against climate change and the promotion of sustainable development. It is a model that can be replicated in other countries that are facing the challenges of conflict and environmental degradation.
Colombian conflict survivors turn forest heroes in search of climate change solutions
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