Colombia is known for its incredible biodiversity, with around 10% of the world's plant and animal species found there. The country is one of 12 globally recognised for its diverse environments, home to over 40,000 plant species. Deforestation is a major problem in Colombia, especially in areas such as the department of Vichada, near the Orinoco River basin. Between 1990 and 2005, approximately 500,000 hectares of forest were lost in this region alone, significantly reducing forest cover.
Overview
Situated within Colombia's eastern lowlands, this initiative operates in the Vichada department, which borders Venezuela and lies within the Orinoco River watershed. The region has faced significant woodland degradation challenges, which are characteristic of Colombia's broader environmental concerns. Historical data reveals that between 1990 and 2005, the area experienced substantial forest decline, with approximately 500,000 hectares of woodland disappearing, representing a 3.2% reduction in the region's forest coverage.
Man Working for Federacion Nacional De Cacaoteros Holding up a Cocoa Bean in Mataven Forest Colombia. Photo credits to Ecologi.
The forest conservation project
The initiative benefits nearly 16,000 Indigenous residents through complementary development programmes. These encompass essential services such as educational facilities, medical centres, dental care provision, improved sanitation infrastructure, and initiatives to enhance food security.
The project's impact extends well beyond greenhouse gas reduction, delivering substantial advantages for Indigenous communities and wildlife conservation efforts. Its certification under Verra's Climate, Community, and Biodiversity Standard (CCBS) validates the programme's commitment to generating meaningful benefits for both local inhabitants and the natural environment.
Implementation
The Matavén REDD+ initiative safeguards an expansive 1,150,212 hectares of tropical woodland within the Indigenous Reservation of the Matavén Forest. Throughout the last ten years, this conservation endeavour has effectively prevented carbon emissions that would have otherwise occurred.
The programme offers a sustainable alternative to the challenges faced by local smallholders who might otherwise encroach upon and clear the protected area. This alternative approach involves employing residents as forest guardians and fostering sustainable livelihood opportunities that work harmoniously with the forest ecosystem rather than depleting its resources.
Four Young Boys Walking in Grass Field in Mataven Forest in Colombia. Photo credits to Ecologi.
Key objectives
Biodiversity Conservation
The project safeguards a unique ecosystem home to numerous plant and animal species. The Matavén forest harbours 249 bird species, 198 butterfly species, 33 dung beetle species, and 121 plant species, among others.
Carbon Sequestration
By preventing deforestation, the project avoids emitting an average of 3,622,352 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere annually.
Indigenous Support
The initiative benefits approximately 16,000 Indigenous people from six different ethnic groups, including the Sikuani, Piapoco, Piaroa, Pinave, Curripaco, and Cubeo.
Project impact
Environmental impact
The Protection of the Matavén forest project in eastern Colombia has a substantial positive environmental impact. It safeguards 1,150,212 hectares of tropical forest, preserving a vital transition zone between the Amazon rainforest and the Orinoco savannas.
Crucially, the project contributes significantly to climate change mitigation by preventing the emission of an average of 3,622,352 tonnes of CO2 annually through avoided deforestation. As a REDD+ initiative, it plays an important role in global efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, thereby helping to maintain the ecological balance of this unique region.
Social impact
The project demonstrates a profound social impact, particularly on the indigenous communities of the Matavén forest. The initiative has improved access to education for over 6,000 Indigenous children and enhanced healthcare services through the construction of community health centres.
Sanitation has been improved with the installation of clean water facilities for thousands of families. Notably, the project has also focused on women's empowerment, increasing the participation and opportunities for over 7,000 women and girls. These social benefits contribute to the overall well-being and sustainable development of the indigenous communities in the region.
Economic impact
Whilst specific economic figures are not provided, the Protection of the Matavén forest project appears to have significant positive economic implications for the region. It likely supports the development of sustainable livelihoods that are compatible with forest conservation. As a REDD+ project, it potentially generates carbon credits, which can serve as a source of income for the community and project implementers.
The project has stimulated local economic development through infrastructure investments, such as the construction of healthcare centres and water facilities. By enhancing food security through improved nutrition and sustainable food production practices, it contributes to the economic stability of indigenous communities. Furthermore, the focus on education and skills development is likely to improve the long-term economic prospects of Indigenous youth, potentially leading to a more diversified and resilient local economy.
Group People Peddling in Wooden Tree Boats on Rio Guaviare in Mataven Forest Colombia. Photo credits to Ecologi.
UN Sustainable development goals
The project aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals:
3 - Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
4 - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
6 - Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
8 - Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
9 - Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation
13 - Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
15 - Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss
Read more about the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Verification and Location
Verified on: Verra
Location: Vichada, Colombia
Photo credits: Ecologi and Seve Producción