Caatinga Conservation and Sustainable Management Project

The objectives of the proposed projects are: (i) contribute to the protection of Caatinga biodiversity, to the reduction in carbon emissions to the atmosphere, and to greater storage of carbon in Caatinga vegetation, through activites that promote and ensure the conservation and sustainable management of the Caatinga Biome; and (ii) improve the socioeconomic situation and quality of life of the population living in these areas, thus promoting integrated, sustainable development in the Caatinga areas. To achieve the objectives, the project would include activities that would incorporate: (i) a statewide approach with regard to Caatinga policy, strategy formulation, assessment, and monitoring, such as Caatinga mapping (areas that are in different stages of preservation and degradation in terms of biodiversity), and education and capacity building for biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration activities, and the use of fuel efficient technologies; and (ii) targeted interventions in selected pilot demonstration areas - such as the elimination of fire as a land-clearing tool, and adoption of fuel efficient wood stoves - for preservation and rehabilitation of defined landscape units, which would include investments and activities geared towards local populations and improvements of their livelihood; and (iii) dissemination and public awareness raising.