Carbon credits projects in coastal wetlands could generate revenue for climate financing and, if managed properly, could bring prosperity to coastal communities. Coastal communities are among the most vulnerable populations in Indonesia.
A 2016 research led by Lindsay Wylie from American University School of International Service has proven how strong community involvement can lead to successful blue carbon projects around the world.
For example, the community-led project “Mikoko Pamoja” has succeeded in restoring 117 hectares of a mangrove ecosystem in Gazi Bay, Kenya. The project has also generated income from its carbon credits. The money has been spent to build a school and install water pumps.
The Indonesian government can emulate these success stories by engaging with local communities in blue carbon conservation initiatives, because the sustainability of these projects will depend on coastal communities who directly benefit from it.
To do that, the government could establish and implement safeguards: a set of principles, rules and procedures designed to protect impacted communities against unwanted risks of the project, as well as to improve their wellbeing.
The project must also secure consent from the community before its implementation. Establishing a channel for the community to express concerns, submit their complaints regarding project implementation, as well as to pay more attention to gender issues, are also pivotal for the success of the projects.
Civil society organisations play a central role in building trust with the community in the implementation of blue carbon projects.
To ensure local community participation, projects must be creative to provide various forms of benefit-sharing.
For example, silvofishery – a combination of aquaculture and mangrove rehabilitation – can be a win-win option. This type of project allows local communities to obtain economic benefits while ensuring the health of mangrove ecosystems.
Source: The Conversation Media Group Ltd