Early opportunity: Muskitia pâsa klîn nâka ~ a source of fresh air
As a UNESCO world heritage site and a Key Biodiversity Area, the Muskitia region is home to some of the most unique and continuous forests in Central America. Unfortunately, this isolated region is heavily threatened by illegal encroachment, primarily from livestock farming. With few local sources of income, poverty is widespread and many households are in extremely precarious situations; which are exacerbated by increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
by strengthening local productive initiatives
through training sessions and economic opportunities
by empowering underserved Indigenous and Afro-Honduran communities
is protected thanks to the project
prevented from being released into the atmosphere every year
are protected including coastal nursery grounds for fish and aquatic species
including nearly 5,000 hectares of mangrove forest
To address deforestation and protect Muskitia's breathtaking landscapes the project is collaborating with 8 indigenous and Afro-Honduran communities. Governance structures are strengthened and communal visions for the future are jointly developed with local councils, increasing participation and creating the foundation for long-term, shared prosperity. The project functions by developing new, sustainable income opportunities that don't depend on the forest being cut down; in particular, Indigenous women and young people are offered training on how to develop business initiatives from local sustainable industries, for example cocoa production, beekeeping, fishing and making handicrafts.
By protecting both the regions terrestrial forests and mangroves the project avoids the release of significant levels of carbon, which is stored in trees, into the atmosphere. However, this is only the beginning of the myriad of benefits that this project brings. Healthy mangroves offer natural protection from floods, erosion and storms as well as filtering pollutants from water and acting as nursery grounds for small fish. New sustainable initiatives help to improve local livelihoods and living conditions, aiding the preservation of Honduras’ invaluable cultural and natural heritage. By partnering with these communities, the project equips them with the resources they need to protect their land for many generations to come.
