Other changes include merging all funding sources, which will strengthen the program and increase its capacity to generate new contracts, expanding from 40,000 hectares per year to 182,000 hectares per year. But to me, the most valuable aspect of the new scheme is the recognition of biodiversity in forests under PES. We will create biodiversity certificates for estates that protect their forests and, by extension, biodiversity.
Once again, Costa Rica leads by example, creating a new mechanism for conservation payments that encompasses not only forest conservation but also biodiversity conservation. We all benefit from this, not just those of us living here but the rest of the world. Hopefully, more countries will implement similar schemes or models to create value in conservation and biodiversity.
Changes in forest cover. Adapted from an image by Rodrigo Ruiz
What’s next for us? We aim to broaden the scheme to include our mangrove ecosystems, linking land with water, connecting SDG 6 with SDG 14, and making our landscapes more sustainable. This will bring benefits to people making responsible use of the mangroves.
Costa Rica’s environmental maturity has taught us that all ecosystems are interconnected and cyclical, and we must create the right conditions for both conservation and production. Healthy land use and healthy marine use are in the best interest of us all; a resilient and productive environment benefits everyone.
Header image: Costa Rica rainforest by Rhett A. Butler
Biodiversity credits, Commentary, Conservation, Deforestation, Ecosystem Services, Ecosystem Services Payments, Editorials, Environment, Forests, Green, Payments For Ecosystem Services, Rainforests, Reforestation, Tropical Forests
Central America, Costa Rica, Latin America, Mesoamerica
Source link : https://news.mongabay.com/2024/07/conservation-pays-and-everyones-benefitting-from-it-commentary/
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Publish date : 2024-07-15 03:07:50
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