In the vast landscape of Colombia’s Meta department, the El Tigre REDD+ Project stands as a powerful example that the most effective conservation begins in the heart of local communities. This initiative, located in the El Tigre Indigenous Reserve in Puerto Gaitán, highlights the transformative power of Indigenous autonomy in protecting a vital treasure: 14,132 hectares of Amazon rainforest.
Since its launch on January 30, 2018, with a 30-year vision and certification from the BioCarbon Registry, El Tigre REDD+ has already verified the reduction of more than 614,630 tons of CO₂. This is not just a number—it represents the direct impact of a community that has become a guardian of its territory against the threat of deforestation.
Indigenous governance: The mainstay
The true strength of this project lies in its governance model. The establishment of the REDD+ Committee is more than a formality; it reflects the genuine empowerment of the community’s authority and management capacity. This committee makes key decisions and ensures that the benefits of conservation are directly translated into well-being for the people.
Tangible investment: Improving lives with purpose
The outcomes of conservation are clearly reflected in the community’s quality of life:
- Dignified housing: A fundamental step toward improved living conditions and family dignity.
- Essential services: The acquisition of an ambulance and electrification of the health center are key milestones that ensure faster and more efficient access to medical care.
Productivity and monitoring
- Sustainable production: The project supports traditional production systems and forest enrichment in these areas. The community not only produces its own food but does so in ways that restore and strengthen biodiversity—proving that development and conservation can go hand in hand.
- Locally rooted monitoring: Forest protection is a community-led responsibility. With proper training and equipment, local members conduct territorial patrols to safeguard their land.
The El Tigre REDD+ Project is compelling proof that Indigenous community autonomy is the most effective path to halt deforestation and build a sustainable future. Their leadership not only fights climate change, but also sets a development model that prioritizes communities, their culture, and their natural home.
🔗 Learn more: www.thecommunityforests.com
📷 Photos: @nikolasjacob
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