Creating Shared Prosperity: Preserving Biodiversity and Natural Forestry through Land Trusts
Preserving Biodiversity and Natural Forestry Askiya's mission to create economic ecosystems for West Africans extends beyond direct commerce to encompass the vital preservation of our planet's natural resources. We believe that true prosperity is inextricably linked to ecological balance. A cornerstone of this commitment is our strategy to establish land trusts to preserve natural forestry and biodiversity. Land Trusts
Why Land Trusts for Natural Forestry?
West Africa, despite being rich in natural resources, faces significant environmental challenges, particularly deforestation caused by logging, mining, modern farming practices, and urbanization. The loss of forests threatens biodiversity, exacerbates climate change, and affects the livelihoods of communities that depend on these ecosystems. Our land trusts are a proactive step towards mitigating these issues, ensuring that vast areas of natural forestry are protected for generations to come.
Our Approach to Land Trusts and Biodiversity Preservation:
Forestry Preservation and Carbon Credits
Askiya's Makervillages are designed to preserve 65-90% of their forest. This extensive preservation generates carbon credits, which serve as a sustainable funding mechanism for our initiatives. Profits from carbon credit sales are reinvested in a Community Development Account, providing a pathway for community members to build assets and enhance their financial stability, thereby creating a self-sustaining cycle of conservation and economic empowerment.
Nursery Establishment and Reforestation
Within Makervillages, we operate nurseries that grow native trees and plants. These nurseries are vital for our reforestation efforts. We actively collaborate with local businesses and concessions to replant and restore damaged conservation forests, ensuring ecological regeneration and restoration.
Agroecological Practices
Our commitment to environmental sustainability is deeply integrated into our agricultural practices. We promote agroecology, organic farming, and permaculture within Makervillages, which enhance soil fertility, conserve water, and increase biodiversity. These methods not only ensure sustainable food production but also contribute to the restoration and maintenance of healthy ecosystems.
Sustainable Resource Management
We emphasize local resource utilization within Makervillages, reducing reliance on external inputs and minimizing the environmental footprint associated with transportation and global supply chains. This also supports small-scale industries that use traditional, low-impact methods on the environment.
Explore Our Impact