Zambia Launches 40-Year Project to Remove 2M Tonnes CO2 Annually by 2030
A groundbreaking project, The Ecopreneur Movement - Miombo Woodland Restoration Project, has kicked off in Zambia. Led by Community Climate Solutions (CCS) and supported by Climate Impact Partners, this 40-year initiative spans 185,000 hectares in the Kazungula District. Its goal? To remove up to 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2030, while empowering 240,000 Zambians to create sustainable livelihoods.
The project, part of Eden: People+Planet's portfolio, uses various restoration methods to revive degraded ecosystems. These include assisted natural regeneration, indigenous tree nurseries, fire breaks, and watershed rehabilitation. At its heart are 'Ecopreneurs' - local farmers trained to plant trees, farm sustainably, and prevent fires. The project prioritizes community benefits, with farmers receiving upfront payments for eco-services and 60% of carbon revenues returning to them and their communities. By 2030, it aims to deliver 2.9-6 million verified carbon credits and support 23 communities. Additionally, communities gain resilience through programs like climate-smart farming, sustainable beekeeping, and eco-friendly businesses, ensuring carbon revenues are not the sole source of resilience.
The Ecopreneur Movement - Miombo Woodland Restoration Project is set to transform Zambia's Miombo Woodlands, removing significant amounts of carbon dioxide and empowering communities. With its focus on sustainable livelihoods, ecosystem restoration, and community benefits, this project offers a promising model for tackling climate change and poverty.
