ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION
The natural wealth of Latin America and the Caribbean is reflected in multiple transnational ecosystems that, interconnected with each other and with other hemispheric ecosystems, provide key services that sustain the livelihoods of their inhabitants. It is the responsibility of countries, governments, and society as a whole to efficiently manage this natural heritage, recognize its economic value, and ultimately generate positive impacts on nature.
In this context, CAF has decided to adopt an ecosystem-based approach in its operations, which addresses not only the needs of countries for the integrated management of land, water, and living resources but also those of their ecosystems for sustainable and equitable resource conservation and use.
CAF’S COMMITMENT TO AN ECOSYSTEM-BASED APPROACH
Coral reef restoration
Coral reefs in the region are severely degraded by climate change and human activity, with over 19% of the world’s reefs destroyed. In response, CAF launched a multinational restoration project in Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Costa Rica, focused on strengthening the restoration of these ecosystems. CAF has mobilized USD 68.9 million through the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
The Americas Flyways Initiative (AFI)
CAF, together with the National Audubon Society and Birdlife International, leads AFI, an initiative promoting sustainable development projects to protect critical ecosystems for migratory and endemic birds in the Western Hemisphere, prioritizing collaboration with local and Indigenous communities.
CAF and strengthening of protected natural areas
Studies in LAC show that protected areas reduce deforestation by up to 72% and increase marine biodiversity. CAF has mobilized USD 68.9 million through the GEF and USD 1.5 million in technical assistance to strengthen the management of 67 protected areas in Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Panama.
