Rwanda is launching a project to map native legacy trees for conservation, eco-tourism, and carbon market access. These trees, significant for their age and cultural value, demonstrate resilience to environmental changes. The initiative aims to protect these trees, enhance biodiversity, and generate economic opportunities through carbon credits and tourism.
Rwanda is initiating a project to identify and map native legacy trees throughout the country, aimed at collecting cultural narratives for conservation and eco-tourism while accessing the carbon market. Legacy trees are characterized by their significant age, historical and cultural value, and unique ecological traits. Philippe Kwitonda, the Director General at the Ministry of Environment, emphasizes that these trees have survived despite agricultural and urban expansion, showcasing resilience and biodiversity.
These legacy trees are crucial for carbon storage; they generally sequester more carbon than younger trees due to their larger size. The carbon market allows entities to fund greenhouse gas reduction projects in exchange for carbon credits, which count towards climate goals. One notable example, the ‘Icubya’ tree, a 300-year-old Cordia Africana, holds cultural significance in Rutunga Sector, where it serves as a historical landmark and gathering place since the 17th century.
Philippe Kwitonda explained that after mapping these trees, the government plans to implement protective policies and establish a ‘Legacy Tree Tour’ to support eco-tourism and community conservation. These trees will be assigned identification numbers, preventing destruction during construction activities, thus ensuring the preservation of culturally significant natural landmarks.
Beth Kaplin, a Senior Researcher, advocates for combining scientific research with traditional knowledge during the mapping process. This approach aims to increase biodiversity conservation and enhance the connection between humans and nature. Additionally, a national registry of legacy trees will boost awareness and facilitate access to native tree seeds for reforestation.
Concorde Nsengumuremyi, Director General of the Rwanda Forestry Authority, explained that the longevity and size of trees directly correlate with their ability to produce carbon credits. Rwanda aims to sell 7.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, generating an estimated $337 million. The Legacy Tree Project represents an essential step toward protecting Rwanda’s native trees, fostering community engagement, and promoting sustainable development through education and tourism opportunities.
Rwanda’s initiative to map legacy trees underscores the importance of integrating environmental conservation with cultural heritage. By preserving these trees, Rwanda not only safeguards its historical landmarks but also enhances ecological resilience and taps into the carbon credit market. The project represents a collaborative effort between the government, researchers, and local communities to promote sustainable practices and economic benefits through eco-tourism and conservation.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
