What is the potential that Colombia has to restore its ecosystems?

In the recent Amazonia Emprende podcast, Colombia's vast potential to mobilize investments aimed at restoring its ecosystems was explored. With the Biodiversity COP in Cali approaching, expectations are high to fund the country's biodiversity and restore vital ecosystems.

How can Colombia take advantage of investment opportunities to restore its ecosystems? Let's understand a few elements first:

● Historical Transformation and Restoration Potential

Colombia has seen a significant transformation since the 19th century, initially driven by the coffee revolution and Antioquian colonization. This transformation changed landscapes from dry tropical and high Andean forests into extensive coffee-growing regions. Today, the country is estimated to have 114 million hectares of continental land, of which around 50-55 million are potential for restoration. This translates into a significant opportunity from both a technical, economic and social point of view.

● The Economic Potential

The restoration of these ecosystems is not only measured in hectares, but also in tons of CO2 equivalent. Colombia could potentially absorb up to 350 million tons of CO2 per year, representing a significant economic opportunity in carbon markets, with an estimated value in billions of dollars. This opportunity extends to national and international investment, fostering an emerging carbon and biodiversity market.

● National Plan and Practical Recommendations

The Colombian government's National Development Plan includes the goal of restoring 753 hectares, underscoring the country's commitment to ecological restoration. However, the key to landing these opportunities lies in concrete actions at the farm and company level.

Finally, in the Podcast, Julio Andrés presented five practical recommendations to take advantage of this opportunity:

1. Property Planning: Fundamental to design and project restoration strategies, considering the availability of resources and short, medium and long-term goals.

1. Resource Inventory: Carry out a detailed inventory of the flora, fauna and soils on the farm to establish a baseline that guides the restoration process and allows its progress to be monitored.

1. Collaboration: Take advantage of the knowledge and resources of local experts and universities to manage the restoration effectively, avoiding individual overload.

1. Management and Door Knocking: Actively seek funding and support opportunities through government agencies and specific programs such as the green business window.

1. Communication: Make restoration efforts visible through photographs, videos and social networks to inspire and mobilize more support, multiplying the impact of the actions undertaken.

Colombia has immense potential to restore its ecosystems, supported by growing interest and opportunities in carbon and biodiversity markets. Harnessing this potential requires a combination of strategic planning, collaboration, active management and effective communication. The experience of Amazonía Emprende in Florencia, Caquetá, serves as an inspiring example of how these strategies can be successfully applied at the local level, generating environmental, social and economic benefits.

Listen to the entire Podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Sk4z7G5maBS0n71GtphZs?si=EJ2GUtLQSYOY2OHCtTIajQ