The ongoing loss of biodiversity not only threatens the resilience of ecosystems but also the well-being of communities globally. TRI is committed to reversing the impacts of deforestation and land degradation, thereby safeguarding biodiversity for future generations.
Over the next week, TRI will be showcased at a number of events at CBD COP16 (listed below), to demonstrate how ecosystem restoration can be done, while reflecting on the impact of our work and experiences in monitoring, financing and policy influencing.
Since its inception in 2018, TRI has united ten projects across nine countries, collaborating with three Global Environment Facility agencies—the International Union for Conservation of Nature (ϲʿֱֳ), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)—along with governments and strategic partners to overcome existing barriers to restoring degraded landscapes, in support of the Bonn Challenge.
TRI has implemented projects across Africa and Asia, over 355,672 hectares of land and placing more than 715,164 hectares under sustainable management. These efforts have , mitigated greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 27.4 million tCO2eq, and led to the strengthening and adoption of over 62 policies in support of forest and landscape restoration across various countries.
"TRI represents a critical step forward in our global efforts to combat biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. By employing science-based strategies and fostering community involvement, TRI is creating resilient ecosystems that can withstand the challenges of climate change. The initiative's emphasis on ecological integrity and connectivity is vital for the long-term success of restoration projects. I am encouraged by TRI's dedication to integrating ecological principles into their work and am optimistic about the positive impact this will have on both nature and communities worldwide," said Prof. Lu Zhi, Executive Director, Peking University Center for Nature and Society and UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration Advisory Board member.
"The Initiative is setting a remarkable example in ecosystem restoration by incorporating innovative approaches and sustainable practices. Bamboo, with its rapid growth and ecological benefits, offers a unique solution for restoration projects. TRI's commitment to integrating diverse species and techniques, including the use of bamboo, not only aids in restoring degraded landscapes but also supports local economies and biodiversity. I commend TRI for its forward-thinking strategies and look forward to seeing how bamboo can further contribute to their impactful work," added Arief Rabik, Chairman and Founder of Bamboo Village Trust and UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration Advisory Board member.
COP 16 will be the first Biodiversity COP since the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). TRI proudly aligns with the GBF Target 2, exemplifying best practices in ecosystem restoration. Adopted during COP15, Target 2 aims to ensure that by 2030, at least 30% of degraded terrestrial, inland water, and coastal and marine ecosystems are effectively restored.