The Mai Ndombe REDD+ Project
The Mai Ndombe REDD+ project is located in the western part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and covers an ecologically valuable area with high biodiversity, including chimpanzees, bonobos and forest elephants. It is located in a region where commercial logging previously took place and which is now one of the world's most important wetlands. The project area is home to around 50,000 people, most of whom live on the shores of Lake Mai Ndombe.
Project goals
The project aims to prevent deforestation and forest degradation, protect natural ecosystems and conserve endangered species. In addition, the economic and social conditions of the local population are to be improved and sustainable land use methods promoted.
Technical details
During implementation, former logging areas are converted into protected areas. Participatory procedures such as the establishment of community working groups and participatory mapping processes are used. A quality management system and regular monitoring ensure compliance with standards.
Economic and social benefits
The project involves local communities intensively, for example through negotiations on participation agreements and the establishment of local development committees for the distribution of proceeds. This creates new employment opportunities, improved infrastructure and a stronger community voice.
Global climate impact
The Mai Ndombe REDD+ project makes a significant contribution to global climate protection by conserving large areas of tropical forest, thereby avoiding extensive CO₂ emissions.
SDGs
The project contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 13 (Climate action), SDG 15 (Life on land), SDG 1 (No poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth).
