Coastal ecosystems, such as those found in Guinea-Bissau, are being cleared and degraded three times faster than forests. When this happens, these ecosystems turn from vital carbon sinks into major producers of GHG emissions. As the first REDD+ project of its kind in the country, this project aims to protect the country’s unique ecosystems while simultaneously reducing GHGs and contributing towards sustainable development in the region. Alleviating poverty within the country is a key goal, with the project aiming to create sustainable jobs that benefit both the Guinean people and their natural environment.

Through a community-based approach the project aims to empower locals in the long-term conservation of Guinea-Bissau’s ecosystems. Spanning across the Cacheu Mangrove Forest National Park and the Cantanhez Forest National Park, the project combines traditional park management practices, such as surveillance, enforcement and fire control, with a participatory management model. By providing tangible benefits to participating communities, the project aims to halt deforestation while contributing towards sustainable livelihoods which provide food security and contribute towards alleviating poverty.