Restoring Andean Forests in Argentina

The project addresses deforestation and environmental degradation by planting millions of native trees, safeguarding water resources, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting local and indigenous communities through sustainable livelihoods. Recognised as a UN World Restoration Flagship, Acción Andina combines ancient Inca principles with modern conservation strategies to ensure long-term ecological and socio-economic resilience in the Andes.

Overview

Argentina, South America's second-largest country in terms of both area and population, spans most of the continent's southern portion. Its diverse landscapes range from tropical climates in the north to tundra in the far south, boasting remarkable biodiversity. However, the country's natural environment faces significant pressure due to its reliance on large-scale agriculture, primarily soybean and livestock production.

As one of the world's largest beef exporters, Argentina heavily depends on fossil fuels for electricity, with natural gas, coal, and oil accounting for 66% of power generation. Agricultural expansion is driving fragmentation and loss of native forests, threatening the long-term conservation of flora and fauna. Of particular concern is the environmental degradation in the Andes mountain range, home to the ecologically crucial Polylepis forests, which can grow at altitudes up to 5,000m above sea level.
Polylepis forests play a vital role in water security for millions.

The trees and their root systems slow glacial meltwater movement, ensuring steady release into rivers and streams year-round. Their branches effectively harvest mists and precipitation from clouds, creating permanent streams crucial for agriculture in mountainous and lowland areas. These forests also prevent soil erosion and flooding, protecting homes and livelihoods.

Moreover, the forests buffer local climates against climate change impacts through evapotranspiration, maintaining cooler and wetter conditions. The trees and associated healthy soils serve as important carbon stores, contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.

These forests harbour diverse wildlife, including Andean Condors, Spectacled Bears, and Pumas. They are expected to become increasingly valuable habitats as species migrate to cooler areas to escape rising temperatures due to climate change.

Regrettably, Andean Polylepis forests have long been threatened by deforestation. Indigenous and local communities near remaining forests are collaborating with local tree-planting organisations to protect native forests and restore deforested areas by planting various native species, including Polylepis.

Local volunteers gather with Global Forest Generation (GFG) to support Andean reforestation efforts in Argentina. Photo credits to Ecologi.

The Andean forests project

The tree planting initiatives we will be supporting through Global Forest Generation (GFG) are part of a project called Acción Andina, which spans five South American countries: Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

The organisation will be funding the planting of 300,000 trees in the Andes mountains. These trees will be planted across 16 different project sites, three of which are located in Argentina.
In the Argentinian sites, 90% of the trees planted will be Polylepis species (Polylepis australis, Polylepis tomentella), with the remaining 10% comprising other native species, including Schinus areira, Acacia visco, and Prosopis ferox.

There are quarterly reports on the progress of these projects, including regular photographic updates to showcase the growth of the trees they've funded.

The specific sites we support in Argentina can be explored on Restor.

Nursery seedlings in wooden planter boxes at an Andean forest restoration project, showcasing sustainable reforestation efforts by Global Forest Generation (GFG). Photo credits to Ecologi.

Implementation

Global Forest Generation (GFG), a US-based conservation non-profit organisation, was established to address the primary challenges facing large-scale forest ecosystem restoration projects.
Recognising a shortage of restoration leaders and projects necessary to safeguard vital ecosystems and rehabilitate degraded areas to combat climate change, GFG's team of seasoned conservationists began forming partnerships with local grassroots leaders and communities.

In 2018, GFG and the Peruvian-based NGO ECOAN co-founded Acción Andina, a network of grassroots conservation partnerships aiming to protect 500,000 hectares of remaining Polylepis forest and restore an additional 500,000 hectares of high Andean forest in buffer zones and crucial areas downstream from glaciers.

GFG provides capacity building, consistent funding, technology, and collaborative networks that many grassroots restoration leaders and projects would otherwise struggle to access. Local project leadership is crucial for long-term success, and GFG supports communities in taking ownership of projects in their vicinity, ensuring their forest stewardship enhances their livelihoods, particularly regarding food security and health. GFG also mentors the next generation of eco-restoration leaders to ensure the forests' protection for years to come.

GFG's implementing partners are local organisations working closely with communities to plant trees and protect remaining forests. In Argentina, these partners include Fundación de Actividades Biosféricas, Fundación Bosquizar and Árbol y Vida.

Forest restoration worker in camouflage hat tends to tree branches in Argentina's Andean region as part of Global Forest Generation's ambitious reforestation initiative. Photo credits to Ecologi.

Key objectives

Forest restoration

The project aims to restore 10,000 hectares of degraded land in the Amhara region by planting 11.9 million trees.

Securing communal ownership

The initiative focuses on ensuring community ownership of the forest, which will help protect it in the long term.

Agroforestry

The project promotes sustainable land use practices by implementing agroforestry systems, combining trees with crops and livestock.

Project impact

Environmental impact

The project is making significant strides in addressing environmental degradation in the Andes mountains of Argentina. By planting 300,000 trees across 16 different sites, with a focus on Polylepis species, the initiative is actively restoring critical high-altitude ecosystems. These Polylepis forests play a crucial role in water security, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration. The trees slow glacial meltwater movement, prevent soil erosion, and create a buffer against climate change impacts. Moreover, the restoration of these forests enhances biodiversity and provides vital habitats for endangered species such as the Andean Condor and Spectacled Bear.

Social impact

The Acción Andina project, implemented by Global Forest Generation (GFG), places a strong emphasis on community involvement and empowerment. By partnering with local organisations like Fundación de Actividades Biosféricas, Fundación Bosquizar, and Árbol y Vida, the project ensures that indigenous and local communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and stewardship among local populations, enhancing their connection to the land and its resources. Furthermore, GFG's focus on mentoring the next generation of eco-restoration leaders contributes to long-term sustainability and capacity building within these communities.

Economic impact

While specific economic data for the Argentina project is not provided, the initiative will have positive economic implications for local communities. Restoration projects typically create employment opportunities in tree planting, forest management, and monitoring activities. The improved ecosystem services resulting from forest restoration, such as enhanced water security and soil fertility, can support agricultural activities and potentially boost local livelihoods. Additionally, GFG's approach of ensuring that forest stewardship improves community livelihoods, particularly in terms of food security and health, suggests that the project is designed to deliver tangible economic benefits to participating communities.

A group of volunteers working together on a mountainside restoration project in the Andean forests of Argentina, with a winding stream visible below. Photo credits to Ecologi.

UN Sustainable development goals

The project aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:

6 - Clean Water and Sanitation: The project helps capture and protect water resources in Polylepis forest watersheds and highland wetlands.
13 - Climate Action: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
15 - Life on Land: Sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, halt and reverse land degradation, halt biodiversity loss
17 - Partnerships for the Goals: Acción Andina works collaboratively with various stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and international organisations.

Read more about the UN sustainability development goals.

Verification and Location

Location: Córdoba, Argentina

Photo credits: Ecologi

FAQ’s

How can individuals or organisations contribute financially to the Acción Andina project in Argentina?
Interested parties can likely support the project by contacting Global Forest Generation (GFG) directly or exploring donation options on their website.

What is being done to mitigate climate risks for the Polylepis forests in Argentina?
The project aims to plant 300,000 trees across 16 sites in Argentina, focusing on Polylepis species. These trees help buffer local climates, slow glacial meltwater movement, and contribute to carbon sequestration, thus mitigating climate risks.

How does Argentina's geography affect its vulnerability to climate change and impact conservation efforts?
Argentina's diverse landscapes, from tropical climates to tundra, make it particularly vulnerable to climate change. The Andes mountain range, home to crucial Polylepis forests, faces significant environmental pressure, impacting water security and biodiversity conservation efforts.

How does the project ensure the long-term sustainability of its conservation efforts?
GFG supports local leadership and community ownership of projects, provides capacity building, and mentors the next generation of eco-restoration leaders. This approach ensures long-term community engagement and sustainable forest management.

What educational programmes does the Acción Andina project in Argentina run?
While specific educational programmes are not detailed, GFG focuses on mentoring eco-restoration leaders and supporting communities to take ownership of projects, suggesting that training and education are key components of their work.

How does the project select its partners to ensure they adhere to sustainable practices?
GFG works with local organisations as implementing partners, such as Fundación de Actividades Biosféricas, Fundación Bosquizar, and Árbol y Vida in Argentina. These partners work closely with local communities, ensuring adherence to sustainable practices and community involvement.