Archive for category: Agriculture

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FairTrade International Fighting Poverty Through Ethical Trade

FairTrade InternationalThe trade of goods, such as coffee and bananas, is a significant source of income for smallholder farmers in South and Central America facing poverty. An estimated 500 million smallholder farming families worldwide produce about a third of the world’s food, yet many of these farmers live on less than $2 per day, making them among the world’s poorest. Consequently, FairTrade certification on purchased and traded goods plays a crucial role in the fight against poverty.

Poverty and FairTrade’s Goal

In countries like Colombia and Ecuador, where many smallholder farmers reside, a significant portion of the population ranges from unemployed to upper-middle income, with various levels of poverty. Recognizing this, FairTrade International has set a goal to eradicate poverty by 2030. It emphasizes that poverty extends beyond lack of money, inadequate access to health care, discrimination and inability to provide for children. To achieve this goal, the organization creates a safety net for certified farmers, ensuring they receive a living wage and protection from market volatility. Additionally, it provides extra funds for farmers to invest back into their communities, helping elevate everyone collectively.

FairTrade International Certification

FairTrade International maintains a meticulous certification process to ensure that funds reach those most in need. Primarily executed through FLOCERT, certifications adhere to quality norms, assurance codes and include on-site audits. Follow-up audits serve to maintain transparency and prevent distrust. The certification process can take up to three years, striking a balance between rigorous scrutiny and promoting development and health. Once achieved, a FairTrade International certification is among the most reliable available.

Coffee and Bananas

The FairTrade Standard ensures that products grown and traded by smallholder farmers are not only of good quality but that the farmers are fairly compensated. This “Standard” addresses both product quality and the standard of living. Coffee and bananas are among the most common goods from FairTrade-certified smallholder farmers. Despite a price dip in 2019, coffee sales have surged, and consumers report that they would pay an extra $1.36 per pound for FairTrade coffee. This premium allows more funds to support smallholder farmers.

High demand for quality coffee has spurred the development of community infrastructure in impoverished rural areas, including roads, bridges, clean water lines, schools and health care centers. Similarly, demand for bananas remains strong, with consumers willing to pay more for FairTrade certification. Even with recent market struggles for bananas, significant funds have continued to be distributed. Smallholder farmers of both coffee and bananas have noted that FairTrade International plays a crucial role in their income and their fight against poverty.

Looking Ahead

The continued growth of FairTrade certification holds the promise of better livelihoods and stronger communities for smallholder farmers in South and Central America. Through sustainable practices and fair compensation, these farmers are poised to break the cycle of poverty and improve their quality of life.

– Isaac Songster

Isaac is based in Wheaton, IL, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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US Aid to Colombia: Navigating the Complexities of Internal Conflict

US Aid to ColombiaTo understand the complexity of U.S. foreign aid to Colombia, it is necessary to examine the current state of the country’s internal conflict. U.S. aid to Colombia has historically focused on combating the drug trade in Buenaventura, as evidenced by initiatives like Plan Colombia. The relationship between poverty, illicit markets and paramilitary groups in Colombia complicates the lives of individuals living in impoverished areas, often forcing them to turn to coca farming and drug trafficking as a means of survival.

“I was raised in Medellín,” said Luis Arango, who did social research in Buenaventura with the University of Antioquia, in an interview with The Borgen Project. “Medellín in the 1980s was the most violent city in the world, so I can understand how drug trafficking links with minorities living in poverty areas. They become part of the business, not because they want to, but because it is one of the only possibilities of making money.”

Considering the role of the drug trade in the country’s internal conflict, recent U.S. foreign aid to Colombia has centered largely around prohibition – for better or for worse. Here is a summary of the role of the drug trade in Colombia’s internal conflict and how it relates to U.S. aid and its prospects.

Internal Conflict in Colombia

A nuanced relationship between the illicit drug trade, paramilitary groups and poverty punctuates the country’s internal conflict. To begin, Colombia is the world’s largest cocaine producer and the port of Buenaventura handles 60% of its imports and exports – from coffee to gold to drugs.

Buenaventura’s port generates $1.8 billion annually in customs tax revenue, but the surrounding regions see little of it. For many, the only viable way to earn a living wage is by working in drug trafficking, as the area has experienced significant poverty. For example, 80% of Buenaventura’s population lived below the nation’s poverty line in 2003, compared to 39.3% nationally. There is also rural dependency on cocoa farming for survival. Outside the port city, in the Andes Mountains, cheap labor continues. In 2021, the UNODC reported that coca cultivation reached a historical high, and 52% of farming is located in special management zones where it threatens preservation of biological and cultural diversity.

Further, numerous armed groups, including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), fund themselves on illegal economies such as drug trafficking.

History of US Aid to Colombia

The U.S. has provided aid to Colombia since 1822, when the country gained independence from Spain. In recent years, U.S. aid has focused on promoting peace in the country, the U.S. Department of State reports. According to the U.S. Embassy in Colombia, “Since 2016, the United States has provided more than one billion dollars in direct and indirect support to Colombia’s peace implementation – the largest contribution of any international actor.”

To promote peace, foreign aid to Colombia has focused on combating points of internal conflict such as paramilitary groups and the illicit drug markets that fuel them. According to the U.S. Department of State, “The U.S. government supports Colombian peace efforts by working in conflict-affected rural areas of Colombia where violence, drug trafficking, limited state presence and the absence of licit economic opportunities historically converge.”

In 2000, the U.S. initiated Plan Colombia, allocating $10 billion for cartel combat through crop eradication. Initial aerial fumigation was halted due to carcinogenic concerns by the World Health Organization (WHO). Presently, Washington and Bogotá fund eradication by hand. The National Police aims to eradicate 20,000 hectares in 2023, 60% less than the unmet 2022 objective. Previous plans to dismantle the drug trade have not been as effective as anticipated.

Current Updates and Prospects

International partners have initiated projects to improve the socioeconomic position of farmers. The Colombian Government, UNODC and international partners began a project that aims to increase income for farmers by supporting their sale of legal products such as coffee, honey, coconuts and beans to make them more competitive in domestic and international markets.

The World Bank also ratified its support for Colombia through a $750 million financing of the Program for the Development of Equitable and Sustainable Policies. This was “in recognition of the country’s efforts to overcome the injustices and exclusion that have generated high levels of inequality and to advance the peace process in the country,” according to a 2023 press release from the World Bank.

Luis Arango considers more alternative approaches to prohibition, with a focus on alleviating poverty in Buenaventura through legalization and regulation, youth art initiatives and new financial incentives for farmers. “It will be interesting to see if there’s some kind of support for the people who are trying to have another answer,” Arango says. Meanwhile, the notable shift in focus on increasing income for farmers of Buenaventura presents a promising example of a sustainable resolution to drug-related poverty in Colombia.

–  Sheridan Smith

Sheridan is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Work of the FAO in Ethiopia

Supporting Ethiopia: The Work of the FAOEthiopia remains one of the poorest countries globally despite significant reductions in its poverty rates, from 44% in 2000 to 30% in 2011. However, the World Bank notes that Ethiopia’s economy has experienced some of the strongest growth rates in the region. With continued improvements planned by its government, Ethiopia aims to reach lower-middle-income status by 2025. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Ethiopia supports these efforts.

Barriers to Economic Progress

To achieve lower-middle-income status by 2025, Ethiopia must overcome several challenges, according to the World Bank. These include recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left high urban unemployment and an overall increase in poverty levels. Additionally, environmental and natural crises, such as locust invasions and adverse weather conditions, have driven food price inflation. The World Bank also notes that the 2022 drought, the worst in half a decade, has contributed to severe food insecurity affecting an estimated 20 million people as of 2023.

Furthermore, expansion of the labor market, reducing learning poverty which remains high at 90% and preventing the impact of further conflict within the nation are crucial to the continued growth of its economy. To encourage these circumstances, overseas aid is of vital importance and one such provider is the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (U.N.) or the ‘FAO’. 

The Country Programming Framework (CPF)

A subdivision of the FAO, the CPF has worked in Ethiopia providing the government with priority areas to focus on. The FAO’s website cites that the CPF was realized after a series of consultations with departments such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Resources, among others. Together, these departments devised a four-year plan to take effect between 2022 and 2025. The priority areas to be focussed on during the plan are as follows: 

  1. Innovation for sustainable agriculture production
  2. Nutrition for the most vulnerable and safe food for everyone
  3. Natural Resource management and agricultural production system
  4. Promotion of inclusive economic growth and reducing inequalities
  5. Addressing cross-sector issues

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

To address the first three priority areas, the CPF is promoting new agricultural methods to produce sustainable crops and encouraging the development of sustainable livestock and fishery approaches. In this way, it aims to create climate-resilient systems to strengthen and grow food security and improve overall nutrition. This includes continued research into how to utilize drylands and ensure better drought resilience. To address the fourth priority area, the CPF outlines its aim to provide support to households to develop alternative sources of income, such as eco-tourism and support small and medium-scale businesses such as milk, hides, skins and grain enterprises.

Success Stories from the FAO

The work of the FAO has had particular success in the agricultural sector of Ethiopia. Supporting programs such as fruit nurseries across the nation, its website highlights Aleje as a beneficiary of such initiatives. The nursery sought to increase local farmers’ stock by growing and distributing seedlings of highland fruit. The nursery received 20,844 Italian rootstocks and 24,160 grafted seedlings in total. Beyond this, the nursery also provides opportunities for local workers, with 437 farmers being trained on its practices like irrigation and sustainable planting methods. 

Priest Habte Yiheyis was one such farmer. After participating in training given by the nursery, he received seedlings of apricots, plums, almonds and apples. Habte has since begun to harvest the yield, generating 7,500 Ethiopian Birr. The FAO notes that this gave him the opportunity to “cover all necessary expenses such as school stationary and uniform for his children, health care and other needs of his family.” He has since passed on his training and knowledge to an additional 35 local farmers, demonstrating the positive impact of the FAO in his case.

Looking Ahead

Ethiopia’s strategic partnership with the FAO and ongoing efforts in sustainable agriculture and economic diversification offer a promising pathway to achieving its lower-middle-income status by 2025. These initiatives continue to empower local communities and lay the foundation for a resilient, inclusive economy.

– Kayleigh O’Brien

Kayleigh is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Creative Ways People Are Solving Big Problems

Solving Big ProblemsOn March 30, 2024, in a podcast episode called “Pulling Water Out of Thin Air, Raising Fish on Land and Other Creative Ways People Are Solving Big Problems,” “The Borgen Project Podcast’s” hosts Clint Borgen and Michelle Twarowska delved into an array of initiatives aimed at addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, such as water scarcity, infant mortality rates, aquaculture and food production.

Harvesting Water Out of Thin Air

“Lima, Peru has ten million people but they get less than an inch of rain every year,” said Borgen. 

Fog nets have existed in areas like Lima for centuries, providing a lifeline for communities by capturing moisture from fog and it into a vital source of water. As access to water has become progressively more challenging, companies have devised more efficient methods to extract water from the atmosphere. 

Borgen and Twarowska delivered a fascinating insight into SOURCE, a revolutionary device that resembles solar panels and extracts moisture from the air, converting it into drinkable water. Designed to operate in arid regions and locations with minimal rainfall, SOURCE holds immense potential for solving big problems like water scarcity around the globe. 

Tackling Infant Mortality Rates

Another pivotal topic explored is the global effort to reduce infant mortality rates under five years old, which have reached an all-time low but remain a pressing concern. Borgen and Twarowka shed light on the significant process made since 2000, with rates halving, yet emphasized the persistent challenge posed by infectious diseases like diarrhea, malaria and pneumonia. 

“My grandfather had 11 siblings and seven of them died before they were 20. Most of it was from pneumonia,” said Twarowska. 

Access to essential treatments remains paramount in saving young lives and bridging health care disparities. 

Innovations in Sustainable Aquaculture

Transitioning to sustainable aquaculture, the conversation introduced HIMA Seafood, a pioneering fish farm employing water recycling techniques. Traditional fish farming methods often encounter environmental challenges such as waste buildup and invasive species, which can have detrimental effects on local ecosystems and biodiversity. 

HIMA Seafood’s approach, utilizing self-contained tanks and converting excess nutrients into fertilizer, offers a more eco-friendly and economically viable solution.

Ethical Considerations and Reflections on Food Production

Ethical considerations in food production took center stage as Borgen and Twarowska discussed the transition towards free-range poultry farming. Michelle shares insights from the Humane Society, including McDonald’s commitment to sourcing 100% of its eggs from free-range suppliers by 2025, which they have completed early.  

McDonald’s “uses two billion eggs a year. That’s a lot of chickens that would otherwise be stuck in cages all day long,” said Borgen. 

The dialogue concluded with introspective reflections on food consumption practices and their societal implications. 

“It’s so much easier to survive,” explained Twarowska regarding the profound shift in human instinct regarding food consumption.

“Humans feel bad to kill because that’s not naturally what we do every day.”

“We would eat so much differently if we had to kill everything we ate,” agreed Borgen. 

Clint Borgen

Clint Borgen is the Founder and President of The Borgen Project. His vision to address global poverty was inspired by his time spent volunteering during the Kosovo War and Genocide. Attracting volunteers from 854 cities around the world, Borgen has used his influence to support legislation that makes poverty a focus of U.S. foreign policy.  

Michelle Twarowska

Michelle Twarowska is an actress who is currently based in Los Angeles. Her Polish descent not only enriches her performances but also provides valuable insights into European traditions and initiatives. Her multicultural perspective is particularly valuable to “The Borgen Project Podcast,” where diverse viewpoints and global perspectives are highly valued.

– Lila Russell
Photo: Flickr

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Genetic Innovations Lifting African Farmers Out of Poverty

Genetic InnovationsAlmost 430 million people in Africa face extreme poverty. This is nearly a third of Africa’s population. The World Bank reported that the majority of these people rely on agriculture, making the link between poverty and agriculture inextricable. Although agriculture can be a prosperous sector, African farmers often lack the resources and genetic innovations that have afforded farmers around the world such a surge in their production.

This is exemplified by sub-Saharan Africa’s fertilizer use being seven times lower than the global average. Another challenge farmers face is the increasing frequency of drought. Drought inhibits agricultural production and exacerbates food insecurity, displacement and poverty. However, genetic innovation provides a solution to these problems.

Providing African farmers with livestock and crops that are genetically optimized to thrive in these conditions has been incredibly effective. These are some of the genetic innovations lifting African farmers out of poverty.

Drought-Resistant Rice in Guinea

Although rice is farmed within Guinea, the country still imports around $230 million worth of the commodity each year. The low output of rice in Guinea can be partly attributed to harsh growing conditions in the region. The rice species that have adapted to these conditions are naturally low-yielding.

A genetically superior type of rice called New Rice for Africa (NERICA) has been created to help Africa overcome this problem. By breeding high-yielding Asian rice variants with the lower-yielding but adaptive African variant, NERICA was born as the first rice variant to produce a high yield in Africa’s climate. Even in the absence of fertilizer, these variants generate 50% more yield than other rice varieties.

Not only is NERICA higher-yielding, but it also contains more protein than other varieties in Guinea, which supports the nutritional needs of a country where malnutrition is rife. At least 20,000 farmers in Guinea have benefited from NERICA rice since its adoption in the country.

Resilient Sheep and Goats in Kenya

Livestock are a life-changing asset for farmers in Kenya. For small-scale farmers, the death of just one animal can put their livelihoods at risk. Heat stress, disease and parasites are some of the main threats to livestock. Through selective cross-breeding, sheep and goats that can withstand higher temperatures and are more resistant to disease and parasites have been produced.

In Kenya, genetically advantageous Galla goats and Red Maasai sheep have been added to existing herds. Not only are these breeds more resilient, but they also increase household income by supplying more milk and selling for a higher price than their equivalent local breeds. These genetically advantageous breeds have reduced food insecurity by around 90% in Kenya.

High-Yielding Beans in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of Africa’s lowest-income countries. Four million farmers in Ethiopia rely on beans as a source of both food and income. However, limited access to expensive farming resources combined with frequent droughts limits the yield of smaller-scale farmers. Beans are a staple in the region and enhancing their yield can increase food security and provide a route out of poverty for small-scale farmers.

Therefore, genetically superior beans that grow faster and withstand drought have been produced through selective breeding. These varieties have more than tripled the average bean yield per hectare in Ethiopia. Since their rollout, the adoption of these beans has increased the household income for 2.5 million families in Ethiopia.

A Sustainable Route Out of Poverty

Genetic innovations like these are life-changing for small-scale farmers in Africa. Since crops and livestock produce offspring with similarly advantageous genes, the initiatives have a sustained impact and provide a long-term solution to Africa’s poverty crisis. Greater investment into agricultural research and wider-scale implementation of these innovations will be crucial for ending poverty in Africa.

– Catrin Jones

Catrin is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Solutions and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Amazon Rainforest Reforestation

Amazon Rainforest ReforestationDeforestation has significant environmental, social and economic impacts, so Amazon rainforest reforestation is important for many organizations. The Eden Projects works with local communities living in extreme poverty to revive and supervise land, providing employment opportunities and fair wages. Thus, it fosters economic opportunity and serves as a means for these communities to alleviate themselves from poverty.

What Is Deforestation?

Deforestation is “the decrease in forest areas across the world that are lost for other uses such as agricultural croplands, urbanization or mining activities.” Often, when land ownership systems are fragile in developing countries like Brazil, large corporations acquire the land and repurpose it for other activities – thus disrupting the lives of the local communities.

Forests sustain local communities and Indigenous people, providing them with food, medicine, shelter, building resources and even holding significant cultural importance. Due to deforestation, around 20% of the Amazon rainforest is razed, propelling many of these locals further into poverty, as they are losing their sustainable resources.

Causes and Effects of Deforestation

Agriculture is the main cause of deforestation, accounting for around 80%. Subsistence agriculture, where the food produced is mostly consumed by the farming family and not sold, contributes to 33% of this agricultural-driven deforestation. About 40% is from commercial agriculture, like soya plantations and livestock farming in Brazil. Infrastructure, such as roads, railways, dam-building, mining and logging, are other causes of deforestation.

Poverty is another cause of deforestation, as many local communities and Indigenous people are dependent on forests. When they are faced with a lack of income and poverty, they resort to clearing the forest for its resources or agriculture. While poverty can be a cause of deforestation, it is also an effect.

Locals whose survival hinges on forests, using them for hunting, gathering resources and for their own agriculture, end up having to choose between leaving or staying. Either way, they face repercussions. If they decide to go, they face the challenge of starting a new life and avoiding conflict by relinquishing their land. If they choose to stay, they can work for the corporations that subject them to deplorable working conditions and unfair wages.

Deforestation also causes soil erosion, which can increase the likelihood of floods and landslides. Soil erosion also reduces soil fertility, impacting food production and causing food insecurity as it is unsuitable for agricultural use.

Eden Projects

Eden Projects is a nonprofit organization that works with local communities and focuses on restoring landscapes in developing countries like Brazil, Kenya and the Philippines. The organization defines land restoration as “a holistic, standards-based approach to restoration and conservation that generates environmental, socioeconomic and biodiversity benefits for the well-being of communities and the planet.”

The Eden Projects has initiated a land restoration project to reforest the Amazon rainforest, Cerrado and coastal mangrove estuaries. The project was started in 2021 and involves collaborating with local communities and leaders to bring the rainforest back to life. The Eden Projects believes in building strong relationships with the local leaders and communities, as they share similar goals of creating a sustainable environment.

How Eden Is Helping

Planting trees helps to restore the 62 million hectares of lost forest in Brazil. Around 30,000 hectares of trees have been reforested by Eden in Brazil, with Amazon rainforest reforestation focusing on mangrove estuaries. Mangrove estuaries play a crucial role in serving as habitats for animals, stabilizing coastlines and diminishing erosion.

With 9.3 million Brazilians living in extreme poverty as of 2018, Eden is helping by creating economic opportunity with its reforestation aid. Eden’s Amazon rainforest reforestation creates employment opportunities for local communities and establishes livelihood opportunities for those facing extreme poverty.

The project hires locals to work on project sites and in nurseries at a fair wage. It also involves them in the maintenance and protection of recently planted areas to engage them in the care of the forests. Eden also allocates a percentage of species planted for sustainable community use, benefitting the locals who relied on the land before deforestation occurred.

Some socioeconomic benefits of the employment opportunities Eden provides include parents who cannot provide food for their families, being able to provide healthy meals, paying school fees and allowing their children to achieve an education. Further economic opportunities arise as microenterprises emerge in the communities.

Final Remark

The vicious cycle of deforestation and poverty perpetuates a harmful loop of environmental and socioeconomic challenges. Amazon rainforest reforestation initiatives represent a crucial step toward addressing the challenges of deforestation. These initiatives aim to address the factors that drive deforestation while also providing employment opportunities for local communities, alleviating them from the extreme poverty they face. These initiatives involve planting new trees, restoring and preserving biodiversity and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

– Isabella Green

Isabella is based in Aylesbury, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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AI Is Helping Address Food Security in India With Agriculture

Food Security in IndiaIn Telangana, South India, artificial intelligence (AI) helps address food security by helping farmers. The country is a prime example of how emerging AI technology is applied to global issues. The Indian government, in collaboration with agricultural aid organizations, has launched an AI program called Saalu Baagu. This program aims to use AI-based tools to solve agricultural challenges. AI programs and emerging technologies are experiencing ongoing growth and expansion in the country.

AI and Farming

The Telangana government divided its AI implementation process into distinct phases. Phase one focused on introducing a variety of AI-based agritech services to thousands of farmers. Phase two reached more than 20,000 chili and groundnut farmers in three districts. The project began in 2022 and has received the support of various AI tech companies and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The Saagu Baagu program has had major success with farmers and crop yields, specifically chili crops. The program has enabled AI-focused startup companies like AgNext, a company helping farmers assess the quality and physical attributes of their chiles. Over 18 months, Indian farmers have experienced a 21% increase in plant growth per acre and a 9% decrease in pesticide usage. More than 500,000 farmers are now engaged in the program and have utilized AI tools in their farming.

The success of the Saagu Baagu signifies the potential for AI to help not just agriculture in India but also crop health on a global scale. AI has helped to address food security in India through revolutionary and adaptable technology that could work in a variety of agricultural environments. The program’s impact in Telangana has exemplified the ability of emerging AI technologies to assist modern farming techniques and strategies. Planting schedules, crop health and yield predictions are all challenges faced by farmers that AI has been able to leviate and make more efficient.

The Future of AI and Food Security

AI could help feed the world and prevent global hunger now and in the foreseeable future. “AI is going to transform the way we produce, store, distribute and market food in ways that will improve food safety, efficiency, resilience and sustainability,” said Gbola Adesogan, associate vice president and director of the Global Food Systems Institute. Efficient and sustainable farming will be the key to global food security.

AI is playing a pivotal role in addressing food security in India. Additionally, it holds promise for farmers worldwide in the future:

  1. It facilitates the analysis of vast data sets, enabling the development of resilient crops capable of withstanding various environmental challenges.
  2. AI offers valuable insights to farmers regarding soil conditions, optimal planting times and harvest periods, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity.
  3. AI technology aids in the early detection of diseases and pests, enabling proactive measures to safeguard crops and maximize yields.

AI has proven to be an incredibly useful tool in empowering farmers to face modern economic and environmental challenges. Technology will be essential to combating global food security and poverty through agriculture.

– Jacob Buckner

Jacob is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Mangroves in Pakistan Are Helping Local Communities

How Mangrove Expansion in Pakistan Is Helping Local Communities Sindh, the southeastern region of Pakistan, hosts up to 600,000 hectares of mangroves and tropical trees that primarily grow in saltwater. Over the past century, the country has lost up to three-quarters of its mangrove forests, but there have been significant efforts to restore and expand these areas. The current Prime Minister, Imran Khan, has committed to planting 10 billion trees by 2023. Expanding mangrove forests has yielded numerous benefits for local communities, including creating jobs, enhancing food security and protecting neighborhoods from natural disasters.

Mangroves as Natural Protectors

Before the mangrove expansion, severe flooding and monsoons in the Sindh region displaced 8 million people and caused financial losses of up to $30 billion. Fortunately, mangroves naturally function as protective barriers against storms, cyclones and floods. This trait inevitably adds a layer of protection, helping to mitigate serious destruction in many communities.

Economic and Ecological Benefits

In Sindh province, up to 100,000 people work in fisheries and the expansion of mangroves in Pakistan has led to a healthier and more diverse habitat for fish and shrimp, enhancing food and employment security. Many locals have seen improved seafood yields, attributing the increase in crab, shrimp and fish to the expansion of mangroves. This growth has also boosted community welfare by creating jobs and community projects. Locals find employment in planting and transporting mangrove saplings and protecting these planted areas from damage.

The proactive restoration of mangroves in Sindh, Pakistan, is set to bolster ecological resilience, with the expanded forests acting as vital carbon sinks. This initiative, aligning with global climate action goals, not only supports local biodiversity but also integrates community development with environmental conservation, thereby positioning the region as a leader in ecological restoration efforts.

Community Empowerment

Local women and young people can also earn money by supplying, growing and providing their mangrove seeds to developers and government agencies, creating valuable income sources for many households living below the poverty line. The expansion of mangroves in Pakistan has proven successful, with the area of mangrove forests increasing from approximately 184 square miles in 1990 to 565 square miles in 2020. Moreover, this growth has helped local communities lessen the impact of natural disasters, secure sustainable income and employment and protect food sources.

Looking Forward

The expansion of mangrove forests in Sindh represents a beacon of environmental and economic renewal. As these ecosystems thrive, they continue to provide essential protection against natural disasters and bolster local economies through fisheries. Community engagement in mangrove restoration not only empowers residents but also instills a sense of stewardship over natural resources. The ongoing efforts to restore mangrove areas are expected to further enhance biodiversity and ecological stability in the region. Each new mangrove planted is a step toward a more sustainable and resilient future for the Sindh communities.

– Zaynab Yusuf

Zaynab is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Cultivating Hope: Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban Farming in São PauloAs one of the largest cities in the world, São Paulo faces numerous challenges, including poverty, food insecurity and environmental degradation. However, innovative initiatives centered around urban agriculture are offering a ray of hope for its residents. The movement to make urban areas greener and more sustainable has been gaining ground in Brazil and worldwide since the early 2000s. Moreso, urban farming in São Paulo is emerging as a pivotal strategy to address ongoing issues, highlighting its growing importance in the city’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban farming refers to growing fruits, vegetables and herbs within urban areas, utilizing limited space such as rooftops, vacant lots and community gardens. In São Paulo, where access to fresh, nutritious food can be scarce in low-income neighborhoods, urban farming initiatives are playing a crucial role in addressing food deserts and improving food security. By bringing agriculture closer to urban dwellers, these initiatives reduce the distance food needs to travel from farm to table, thereby lowering costs and increasing accessibility.

Despite the numerous benefits of urban farming, it still faces challenges and limitations. Land tenure issues, limited access to resources and bureaucratic hurdles can hinder the scalability and sustainability of urban farming initiatives. In addition, the unequal distribution of wealth and resources within the city exacerbates existing disparities, making it difficult for some communities to fully engage with urban farming efforts.

Environmental Impact of Urban Farming

Urban farming in São Paulo has environmental benefits that extend beyond its economic and social impacts. By converting vacant lots into green spaces, urban farms help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality and promote biodiversity. Additionally, these initiatives often employ sustainable farming practices such as composting, rainwater harvesting and organic cultivation methods, thereby reducing the city’s ecological footprint and enhancing its resilience to climate change.

Hortelões Urbanos

The Hortelões Urbanos network or Urban Horticulturists, stands out as a leading initiative in São Paulo. Its members champion food autonomy and strive to lessen reliance on traditional farming practices, agribusiness and large retailers. Key principles of the network include fostering equal partnerships between rural and urban communities and opposing the adverse effects of agribusiness on natural resources, transportation, excessive packaging, waste production and labor exploitation.

Nagib and Nakamura report that initiatives like these promote the sharing of experiences and information about urban agriculture, whether at the household or community level. Involving residents in the cultivation process fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment within these communities.

Urban farming in São Paulo offers economic opportunities for vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation. Through training programs and cooperatives, individuals living in impoverished areas are equipped with the knowledge and resources to grow their food or even start small-scale agricultural businesses. By selling surplus produce at local markets or participating in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, urban farmers can potentially generate additional income, thus reducing their reliance on expensive store-bought groceries and improving their financial stability.

Looking Ahead

Urban farming offers significant potential as a strategy for reducing poverty and developing communities in São Paulo. The ongoing initiatives enhance access to fresh food, generate economic opportunities and promote environmental sustainability, presenting a comprehensive solution to the intricate issues urban populations encounter. As São Paulo expands and progresses, urban farming is poised to play a crucial role in the city’s endeavors to create a more equitable and resilient environment for all residents.

– Rhys Woodward

Rhys is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Cacao Pods: Repurposed to Alleviate Poverty in Africa

Cacao Pods: Repurposed to Alleviate Poverty in AfricaThe cocoa industry holds the promise of becoming a source of clean energy, enhancing agricultural output and lessening poverty among farmers. According to the World Resource Institute, approximately 75% of the cacao pod is discarded during cultivation, harvesting and consumption of cocoa beans, as the beans, used for making chocolate and cocoa butter, are the most valuable parts. This practice leads to soil degradation and contributes to deforestation, diminishing the availability of fertile land for farming. Research from Wageningen University shows that smallholder cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast and Ghana earn about $1 per person a day, insufficient to meet basic needs.

Sustainable Utilization of Cacao Pods

Collecting and repurposing the husk, pulp and shell of cacao pods results in several uses. For instance, the pulp can be processed into a nutritious and delicious beverage, creating new market opportunities within the chocolate industry. Additionally, cocoa bean shells can be transformed into cocoa flour, a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional flour. These innovative uses of cacao pod byproducts provides farmers with additional products to sell beyond chocolate, as well as, enhance their profits, diversify their produce and also enjoy environmental benefits. Cocoa bean shells can be used as fertilizer and mulch, helping to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture, thus improving soil health. Moreover, enhanced soil quality supports increased production and helps farmers achieve larger yields, contributing to poverty alleviation among cocoa farmers.

Animal Feed and Soil Health Improvement

Repurposing cacao pods not only helps reduce soil degradation, providing farmers with more reusable land for crop planting but also serves as a cost-effective animal feed source. This dual benefit enhances agricultural productivity and contributes to reducing poverty among cocoa farmers by lowering animal husbandry expenses.

Cacao Pods for Clean Energy Production

A study identified cacao pod husks as a viable source for electricity generation in Uganda. Methods such as direct combustion, gasification, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion and hydrothermal carbonization can convert these husks into energy. Utilizing cacao pods for power could significantly benefit rural areas in Uganda by providing electrification. This shift has the potential to reduce deforestation, mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity, transforming the socio-economic landscape of these communities.

Innovative Projects for Cacao Pod Waste Repurposing

The Circular Economy Cocoa: From Bean to Bar Project and the Cote d’Ivoire Biomass Electricity Production initiative are pioneering new methods to repurpose cacao pod waste for more sustainable production. The Cote d’Ivoire initiative focuses on a power plant that uses cacao pod waste to generate clean energy, as outlined by the Private Financing Advisory Network (PFAN). Meanwhile, the Circular Economy Cocoa program in Helvetas Vietnam aims to transform Vietnam’s cocoa production into a renewable sector. This transformation involves recycling cocoa waste as an energy source, eliminating harmful chemicals in manufacturing, reducing the intensity of resource production and introducing eco-friendly packaging solutions.

Looking Forward

Embracing innovative approaches to repurpose cacao pod waste marks a promising step toward sustainable agriculture and energy production, offering cocoa farmers in regions like Ivory Coast, Ghana and Uganda a brighter future. These initiatives not only aim to elevate farmers’ livelihoods but also set a precedent for environmental stewardship in the cocoa industry, steering toward a more sustainable and prosperous path for all involved.

– Erika David

Erika is based in Union, NJ, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash