by Oyut Amarjargal | January 15, 2025
A Beacon for Biodiversity and Sustainable Development
High in the mountains of Colombia lies one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, the Andean cloud forests. Enveloped in mist and perched on steep slopes, these forests are home to nearly two million species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, representing about one-sixth of Earth’s total biodiversity. This ecological treasure trove, however, is under severe threat from deforestation and climate change. In response, an initiative led by ClimeCo and in partnership with Saving Nature and Fundación Bioconservancy is working to reforest degraded lands, reconnect wildlife corridors, and uplift the local community.
The Andean Cloud Forest
Cloud forests are a unique type of rainforest found at higher altitudes, where persistent low-level clouds cover the trees. The Andean cloud forests, specifically, are teeming with life. Iconic species like the Andean spectacled bear, olinguitos, yellow-eared parrots, and countless insects, amphibians, and endemic plants find refuge in this ecosystem. The forest also plays a crucial role in regulating water cycles, preventing soil erosion, and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere.
However, the cloud forest’s survival hangs in the balance. Historical deforestation, mainly due to cattle grazing and agricultural expansion, has fragmented these habitats, isolating species and jeopardizing their ability to adapt to changing climates. Without proper and immediate action, many species could vanish forever.
ClimeCo’s Role in Conservation and Restoration
ClimeCo, a leader in climate solutions, has partnered with Saving Nature and Fundación Bioconservancy to combat these threats through a joint reforestation and regeneration project. Together, they are planting over 400 native tree species to restore degraded lands and reconnect fragmented forests. These efforts will help create wildlife corridors, enabling species to migrate and thrive again.
The project spans an impressive 40 years and anticipates sequestering more than 250,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. This helps mitigate climate change and preserves the forest’s invaluable biodiversity.
Community-Centered Conservation
Beyond ecological benefits, this initiative profoundly invests in the local community of La Mesenia village. By adopting a family-based employment model, the project ensures inclusive participation, with a particular focus on empowering women. Women-led community nurseries are at the heart of reforestation, collecting, germinating, and supplying seedlings. These nurseries provide a sustainable income for women and other priority groups, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Workers involved in planting and maintenance are compensated more than 50% above Colombia’s national minimum wage and receive additional benefits. This income has led to tangible improvements in housing, education, healthcare, and food security for many families.
The community’s traditional knowledge is also integral to the project’s success. Locals contribute expertise in growing seedlings and monitoring wildlife. These activities underscore the project’s commitment to blending scientific rigor with local know-how.
Rebuilding After Disaster
In January 2023, a massive landslide devastated La Mesenia’s road network, cutting off the village and threatening the project’s progress. The damaged roads hindered the transportation of seedlings from nurseries to planting sites, a critical step in reforestation. Without timely action, thousands of carefully nurtured seedlings would have become unviable for planting.
Recognizing the urgency, ClimeCo invested $30,000 in emergency funds to repair the roads. This swift intervention ensured that the seedlings could be transported and restored connectivity for the community. The rebuilt road stands as a symbol of resilience and the importance of infrastructure in sustaining livelihoods and conservation efforts.
A Model for Sustainable Development
This project is a great example of how environmental conservation and community development can go hand in hand. By addressing the root causes of deforestation and empowering local communities, ClimeCo and its partners are creating a sustainable model that other regions can emulate.
Moreover, the initiative contributes to Colombia’s national climate goals, including carbon neutrality by 2050 and zero deforestation by 2030. It also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
A Vision for the Future
The Andean cloud forests of Colombia represent one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, yet they remain highly vulnerable to deforestation and climate change. By addressing environmental challenges and involving local communities, this project serves as a model for integrating conservation with sustainable development. The combined efforts of ClimeCo, Saving Nature, Fundación Bioconservancy, and the community are creating tangible benefits for biodiversity and livelihoods. Projects like these demonstrate the importance of investing in nature-based solutions to combat climate change, protect critical ecosystems, and improve the resilience of communities that depend on them.
To learn more about our nature-based solution projects, visit ClimeCo NatureLink and contact an expert today.
About the Author
Oyut Amarjargal is a Project Manager of Nature-Based Solutions at ClimeCo, specializing in environmental monitoring, sustainable development, and climate resilience. With an M.S. in Geographic Information Science and prior roles at NASA and The Nature Conservancy, she brings focused expertise in spatial science, carbon sequestration, and nature-based solutions.
