Protecting biodiversity in Colombia

Context

Colombia is a mega-biodiverse country with the greatest diversity of species in the world. The Amazon region and the Orinoquia savannah in particular are of global importance for biodiversity and climate protection.

Although more than half the country is covered by forests, the high rate of deforestation is increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Around 188,000 hectares of forest were destroyed in 2023, especially in the conflict regions of Meta, Caquetá and Guaviare. Large-scale cattle farming at the edge of the rainforest is stressing soils and endangering local biodiversity as well. Economic incentives and the knowledge required to use land ecologically and efficiently are often lacking.

Objective

Selected supply chains, i.e. for Amazon fruit and natural rubber, are improved. They contribute to the protection of biodiversity in agricultural and forestry operations in the Colombian rain forest regions of Orinoquia and the Amazon.

Approach

The project operates in four key areas:

1. It promotes communication between various responsible bodies to improve the regional network of supply chains that protect biodiversity in selected ecological corridors.
2. It provides consulting and training for companies on the implementation of supply chains that preserve biodiversity.
3. It provides consulting for producers on the environmentally friendly use of natural resources.
4. It promotes the exchange of knowledge for the restoration of damaged ecosystems.

Version of: February 2025