The forest protection project is fighting against the destruction of the rainforest in the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It provides the local population and a variety of rare and endangered animal and plant species with a sustainable livelihood and thereby significantly reduces the annual CO₂ emissions.

Project standard: VCS, CCB

Project Description

The forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo form one of the largest expanses of rainforest in the world and provide a habitat for countless species of flora and fauna. The area is home to 11% of all known bird species, as well as 50,000 indigenous people in over 30 villages. In addition, the forests store a large amount of CO₂, which is why the region is also referred to as the left lung of the planet.

These precious rainforests are under constant threat from illegal or non-sustainable wood industry. The climate project is committed to saving the rainforests. It protects them from deforestation and helps to prevent the destruction of this valuable ecosystem.

The project protects 187,571 hectares of rainforest and stops it from being converted into agricultural land. This reduces annual CO₂ emissions by around 325,000 tonnes.

But it’s not just the flora and fauna that benefit – there are also a range of programmes for the local population, which is reliant on the forest. The various initiatives are aimed at educating the inhabitants and creating sustainable ways for them to make money.

Social and economic Benefits

• Several schools have been established through the project and have so far provided places for 1,729 students and created jobs for 23 teachers.
• Food security is increased by planting fruit trees and creating ponds.
• The cultural diversity of the indigenous people is promoted and supported.
• At the same time, the health system in the region is financially supported.
• Training workshops on climate change, carbon markets and the importance of the forest ecosystem are held for the people in the region.
• In additional workshops for women only, topics such as ‘the role of women in protecting the ecosystem’ are tackled.
• The local population is supported and knowledge about plants is increased in a seed exchange programme.
• The measures in the forest and the social activities will together create around 400 jobs.

Environmental aspects

• The project protects endangered animal species, including leopards, forest elephants, red river hogs, 14 primate species, dwarf crocodiles, hornbills and rare bats.
• Changes in biodiversity are monitored and documented.
• The project has already been shown to improve plant diversity.
• Since the project was launched, the bonobo and cape buffalo have been spotted in the region for the first time in years.