Forest Protection in Salumei, Papua New Guinea
The rainforest as a basis of existence
Since time immemorial, the people in the primeval forest of April Salumei, Papua New Guinea, have lived in harmony with nature. Until the government approved its area for industrial use and deforestation, that is. The basis of their own existence was facing destruction. The indigenous people joined forces and fought on behalf of their forest. Today, they protect a vast area of pristine rainforest, with countless species of birds, exotic animals and plants. They thus maintain an important CO2 sink. The project brings other benefits for them: today, the children go to school, learn to read, and have prospects for the future. Adults are able to find work in small businesses. Anyone who falls ill can be treated in a health centre in the next village. All this is new and only made possible through the financing arising from the carbon offset project.
How does forest protection help fight global warming?
Forests, especially tropical ones, store CO2. For projects aimed at combatting climate change, there are essentially three methods for creating and sustaining forestry as a carbon sink: 1. forestation and reforestation, 2. sustainable forest management (where the amount of timber harvested does not exceed the amount that can grow back), and 3. financial incentives for the protection of forestland as a carbon sink (the UN's REDD+ program).
We are new contributors to this project so have not contributed to the current achievements, but below is some info on what the project has achieved, its aspirations and credentials.
Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-Being
Construction of community health centres to improve health care accessibility.
SDG 4 - Quality Education
Building schools and promoting literacy.
SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
More than 1 000 solar lamps were distributed in schools, hospitals, churches and homes. For many people in this area it is the first electric light ever in their lives.
SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
Support in founding small enterprises additional sources of income.
SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Installing schools, hospitals, churches and electric light.
Climate Action
600,000 hectares of rainforest being preserved, 400,000 tons of CO2 saved per year.
SDG 15 - Life on Land
Papua New Guinea is home to 5 percent of global biodiversity.
SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals
Our long-term support facilitates sustainable development projects in the global South.
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