COMPREHENSIVE REFORESTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND CARBON CREDIT FUNDING IN COLOMBIA 

InverBosques S.A. specializes in the development, management, and investment in economically, socially, and ecologically viable agro-industrial and forestry projects. Located primarily in Puerto Carreño, Vichada, their operations focus on sustainable forest management, production of plant material, and technological advancements in forestry. Their comprehensive approach includes planning, genetic improvement, and the maintenance of forest plantations, all aimed at maximizing biomass production and CO₂ capture.  

Together with FORLIANCE, InverBosques has transformed the Vichada Climate Reforestation Project from a timber-focused initiative to a robust conservation effort.

The challenge was to transition from a timber-centric approach to a comprehensive conservation effort. This shift required strategies to protect and enhance biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and co-create sustainable livelihoods with and for local communities, all while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Together with InverBosques S.A., FORLIANCE supported the development and implementation of the Vichada Climate Reforestation Project. Our team of international experts conducted comprehensive field assessments, devised site-specific afforestation and reforestation strategies, and oversaw the technical implementation of the project. Spanning 73,835 hectares, the initiative involved planting 19,208.4 hectares of trees, thereby bolstering ecosystem vitality and augmenting carbon sequestration capabilities. In terms of conservation efforts, the project encompasses two primary activities. Firstly, it includes natural regeneration of existing forest stands, where underbrush and new species are encouraged to thrive alongside eucalyptus trees. Secondly, there is an active initiative to plant native species in interstitial areas. Commencing in 2023 with a pilot of 30 hectares, this year marks an expansion of these plantings. 

The Vichada Climate Reforestation Project has achieved significant social, ecological, and economic benefits. FORLIANCE ensured the alignment of the project with internationally recognized carbon methodologies, such as the Gold Standard for the Global Goals and FSC certifications. Social benefits include sustainable livelihoods for over 100 local workers, technology transfer programs, and environmental education initiatives.

• Ecologically, the project enhances biodiversity, prevents soil erosion, and improves water quality within the tropical rainforest ecosystem. Five Bushnell Core Glow camera traps were temporarily installed in 17 High Conservation Value (HCV) areas to monitor biodiversity. These cameras captured crucial data on date, time, moon phase, and temperature. Ther are muliple threatened species can be found there, some of those are the jaguar (Panthera onca), giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), the Orinoco crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius), etc.
• Economically, the Vichada conservation project fosters local development by leveraging revenue from Gold Standard Certification carbon credits. This funding creates job opportunities and facilitates capacity building. Significant investments in land preparation, afforestation, monitoring, and maintenance ensure project sustainability, as there is no income from timber or non-timber forest products. By offering salaries above the Colombian minimum wage, the project alleviates poverty and supports economic empowerment. In 2022, the project expanded the nursery's capacity by 20%, adding a section for native plant species and hiring more additional employees.
• Community development is prioritized through job creation, training programs, and support for local entrepreneurship. Workshops equip community members with skills in finance, operations, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management. The project supports conservation efforts in the Bita River Basin, maintains FSC certification, and protects High Conservation Areas. Collaborative partnerships with local communities and ongoing dialogue address environmental and social challenges.

The project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), anticipating the hiring of 28 more employees by 2036. This holistic approach promotes economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and social inclusivity, fostering a prosperous and resilient future for local communities. The project's success, driven by carbon credit revenue, underscores the importance of sustainable financing mechanisms in driving positive change and leaving a lasting impact on the ecosystem and local communities.

Looking ahead, the Vichada Climate Reforestation Project aims to further its impact by continuing to expand conservation efforts and community empowerment programs. FORLIANCE’s ongoing support ensures the project's sustainability and effectiveness, serving as a model for integrating environmental sustainability with socio-economic growth.