Projects Current projects Loru Forest – Vanuatu The project (also known as Ser-Thiac), as part of the Nakau Programme, protects over 200ha of tropical rainforest on eastern Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu. It combines coastal rainforest protection with agroforestry, with a special focus on producing the agricultural commodity Melanesian Chestnut (Canarium indium) for participating community members. Benefits that Loru Forest Project provides Start date 2013 Coordinator Live & Learn International Activities Avoided deforestationAgroforestry Participants 50 indigenous households PVCs issued to-date 21,205 Awards UN 2019 Equator Prize The detail The Loru Forest project is an award-winning initiative that protects the coastal rainforest from degradation and deforestation, amidst a growing trend of land diversion for non-forest purposes in Vanuatu. The project (also known as Ser-Thiac) addresses the major issue of slash-and-burn conversions to coconut plantations and cattle ranches that are seen across the country, as well as land clearing for crops, as well logging. As part of the project, a section of the forest spanning more than 200 hectares has been declared a Community Conservation Area, and activities that prevent deforestation, invasive weed control, and agroforestry on degraded land are carried out. The sale of carbon credits generates income for the Serakar Clan, the traditional custodians of this important section of remnant rainforest. In addition to climate mitigation, the project supports community enterprises such as a tree nursery and training in nut processing that provides a long-term incentive to continue sustainable practices. A new ranger house has been built, and six agroforestry plots are currently thriving in the project area. One of the most important benefits is the rise in income that is helping local children to become enrolled in schools. The project also protects the habitat of native plants and animals, including priority species such as endemic birds, crabs, and flying foxes. Among its other wide-ranging co-benefits are improved climate resilience, water, and food security. PROJECT STORIES: TABU DAKBUS The documents See all documents > SDG details See how the project provides benefits beyond carbon and contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Sustainable Development Goal How the project contributes Provides an alternative and sustainable income to the people of the Serakar clan in Loru built on payment for ecosystem services (PES). Carbon finance is being used by the Loru community to install water tanks and WASH facilities. The Loru Forest carbon project and carbon rights are owned by the Serakar clan. With income from their credits, the Serakar community has established a successful agroforestry project, and a salary for forest Rangers. The Nakau Programme requires fair decision-making and benefit-sharing systems. All benefits from credit sales are shared equitably within the Loru community. 21,205 PVCs issued since the project commenced. Communities and ecosystems are protected from climate change-fuelled extreme weather. Protects and restores 293 hectares of critical rainforest ecosystem so birds, plants and animals are protected, and biodiverse rainforests remain for future generations. Manage Cookie Preferences