PNG Forest Authority Eyes EU Climate Funding for Sustainable Forestry
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – The Papua New Guinea Forest Authority (PNGFA) is actively pursuing participation in the European Union’s Climate Change and Biodiversity Programme (EU-CCBP) focused on Forest Finance. This initiative signals a significant step towards securing vital funding for sustainable forestry practices and conservation efforts within Papua New Guinea.
According to PNGFA Managing Director, John Mosoro, the authority recognises the immense potential of the EU-CCBP to bolster the nation’s forestry sector. The programme aims to provide financial support and technical assistance to countries committed to protecting and sustainably managing their forests, while also mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity.
“We are very keen to be involved in the EU-CCBP’s Forest Finance component,” stated Mosoro. “This programme presents a unique opportunity for PNG to access much-needed resources to strengthen our forest governance, improve sustainable logging practices, and enhance community engagement in forest management.”
The EU-CCBP’s Forest Finance mechanism is designed to channel investments into forest conservation and sustainable management projects. It emphasizes rewarding countries for maintaining and expanding their forest cover, promoting reforestation efforts, and combating deforestation. This aligns perfectly with PNGFA's existing strategies and long-term goals.
Papua New Guinea boasts some of the world’s most extensive and biodiverse rainforests, playing a crucial role in global carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. However, the sector faces challenges including illegal logging, unsustainable practices, and the impacts of climate change. Securing funding through the EU-CCBP would enable PNGFA to:
- Strengthen Forest Monitoring and Enforcement: Invest in advanced technologies and training to combat illegal logging and ensure compliance with sustainable forestry regulations.
- Promote Sustainable Logging Practices: Support initiatives that encourage responsible timber harvesting, reduced-impact logging techniques, and forest restoration.
- Empower Local Communities: Engage local communities in forest management decisions, providing them with the resources and training necessary to sustainably manage and benefit from forest resources.
- Enhance Biodiversity Conservation: Implement conservation programs to protect endangered species and their habitats within PNG’s forests.
The PNGFA is currently working on preparing a detailed proposal outlining its specific project ideas and funding requirements for the EU-CCBP. The authority is optimistic about its chances of securing funding and believes that participation in the programme will significantly contribute to the long-term sustainability of Papua New Guinea’s valuable forest resources. This initiative represents a crucial step towards balancing economic development with environmental protection, ensuring that PNG's forests continue to thrive for generations to come.
The success of PNGFA’s application will not only benefit the country’s forestry sector but also serve as a model for other developing nations seeking to leverage international funding for sustainable forest management.
