Protecting Native Species and Indigenous Livelihoods

Food Forests for Indigenous Rights and Livelihoods

At Food Forest, we are dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for Indigenous communities in Honduras and across Latin America. Our mission goes beyond planting trees. By growing productive native species in our food forests, we empower Indigenous families to create sustainable income sources and preserve their culture. At the same time, we are reversing the damage caused by climate change.

What is a Food Forest?

A food forest is an agricultural system designed to mimic a natural forest ecosystem. It includes a diverse range of trees and plants that provide food and medicine. Unlike traditional farms, food forests are self-sustaining once established. This means they can feed families for generations. By planting native tree species like guava, avocado, cashew, mango, orange, and coffee, we help Indigenous communities regain control over their food sources and establish local food systems.

How Does Planting Trees Create Economic Opportunities?

Planting trees in food forests creates jobs and boosts local economies. Indigenous communities have relied on food forests for thousands of years, and by reestablishing many of these damaged forests, they can harvest and sell the produce, generating income and creating economic independence. These food forests offer a sustainable way to improve livelihoods. By participating in the planting and maintenance of these forests, the community gain valuable skills and economic opportunities that lead to financial stability and growth.

How Do Food Forests Restore Ecosystems?

Reforesting degraded areas with native tree species helps restore fragile ecosystems. In regions like Honduras, where deforestation and habitat loss have been severe, planting diverse native trees can revitalise this land. This restoration supports wildlife, including many endangered species. Between 2001 and 2019, Honduras lost over 37% of its forest cover, as a result native species like jaguars, howler monkeys, and scarlet macaws are suffering. Our projects are designed to preserve watersheds and increase biodiversity, which is vital for sustaining these millions of species of flora and fauna.

Can Food Forests Combat Climate Change?

Food forests play a significant role in combating climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as natural carbon sinks. Reforesting large areas with diverse native species helps sequester carbon, reducing greenhouse gases. Additionally, food forests help manage water resources, reducing water loss and preventing damage from extreme weather events which are becoming more frequent and damaging every year. By empowering local communities to establish and maintain these forests, we are providing a sustainable solution to climate change.

How Do Food Forests Support Indigenous Culture and Traditions?

Our initiatives have been designed to help reconnect Indigenous children and families with their traditional relationships with the land. By working with the community throughout the entire process, we are ensuring that Indigenous agricultural techniques are respected and preserved. This hands-on knowledge sharing strengthens cultural ties and helps them take ownership, which is crucial for the long-term success of these projects.

Looking Ahead

At Food Forest Carbon Capture, we are dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities through the creation of food forests. Our projects promote food sovereignty, create economic opportunities, restore ecosystems, and preserve cultural traditions. If you are interested in the impact of our work, you can learn more about our projects and support them directly. With your support we can build a sustainable and dignified future for indigenous communities across the world.

‍

Useful Links

• Forests and Climate Change
• Top Findings from the IPCC Climate Change Report 2023
• What is a Food Forest?
• Forest and Climate
• Facts & Figures | Center for International Forestry Research
• How Forest Restoration Takes Root
• The Effects of Deforestation on Wildlife in Honduras
• Honduras Aims to Save Vital Wildlife Corridor from Deforestation
• How Endangered Species Benefit from Healthy Forests