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Micro/Macro Tree Planting & SPIN Gardens Development Projects
Nigeria Urban Gardeners: Transforming Cityscapes into Green Paradises
Urban gardening is not just about growing food; it's about the overall improvement of the city. It brings people together, enhances the aesthetics of our neighborhoods, and promotes a healthier, more sustainable way of living," says Jane Smith, founder of Cityscapes.
*NATURAL FOREST STANDARDS* .
The *Natural Forest Standard (NFS)* is a robust jurisdictional REDD+ crediting program focused on the conservation and restoration of natural forests.
It integrates social, biodiversity, and carbon values to ensure sustainable forest management.
The NFS issues *Natural Capital Credits (NCCs)*, which represent 1 ton of CO2 avoided or removed through the protection and/or restoration of natural forest ecosystems.
Carbon Farming
By protecting and restoring natural forests, their projects contribute to carbon sequestration, which is a key aspect of carbon farming.
Introduction
The world faces significant deforestation challenges, with Nigeria losing forest cover rapidly due to agricultural expansion, charcoal production, and illegal logging. Abuja Districts known for their rich forest ecosystems, are no exception. The Rotary Club of Abuja aims to address this issue by implementing a forest regeneration project in these districts, aligning with national and international environmental conservation goals.
2. Problem Statement
Abuja are experiencing severe deforestation, driven by unsustainable practices such as illegal logging, agricultural encroachment, and charcoal production. The lack of effective enforcement, inadequate community involvement, and limited alternative livelihoods exacerbate forest degradation, threatening biodiversity and increasing vulnerability to climate change.
3. Objectives
•Restoration of Degraded Forests: Identify and restore 20 hectares annually, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services.
•Community Engagement: Promote community-based forest management and provide alternative livelihood options to reduce dependence on forest resources.
•Capacity Building: Strengthen the technical capacities of the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and local communities in sustainable forest management.
•Advocacy and Policy Support: Advocate for policies that support sustainable land use and forest conservation.
4. Strategies
•Reforestation Programs: Large-scale tree planting initiatives, establishment of nurseries, and regular monitoring of reforestation efforts.
•Community Empowerment: Training in sustainable agriculture and alternative livelihoods, alongside establishing community forest management agreements.
•Ecosystem Restoration: Implement natural regeneration techniques, invasive species control, and ecological assessments.
•Monitoring and Evaluation: Utilize remote sensing and GIS for real-time monitoring of forest cover and land use changes.
5. Expected Outcomes
•Increased Forest Cover: Restore 100 hectares over five years, improving forest quality and ecological resilience.
•Enhanced Biodiversity: Restoration of habitats for endangered species.
•Improved Livelihoods: Community benefits through sustainable forest management practices.
•Climate Change Mitigation: Contribution to global carbon sequestration efforts.
6. Rotary Club Involvement
•Awareness and Advocacy: Promote forest regeneration within the community.
•Funding and Resources: Organize fundraising events and partnerships to support the project.
•Volunteer Participation: Engage in hands-on activities such as tree planting and maintenance.
•Education and Training: Provide workshops on sustainable practices and biodiversity preservation.
7. Budget Overview
The total project budget is estimated at (USD:41255 covering community engagement, reforestation activities, monitoring, and administrative
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