Reforestation in Nicaragua

Summary

This project will replenish local forests around Esteli, Northern Nicaragua, which have been decimated in recent years; in conjunction with energy efficient stoves which are constructed on GVI volunteer programs, the reforestation program should be a huge success for years to come.

Background

Due to three-stone fire cooking techniques (cooking on an open fire) the regions forests have been cut down at a fast rate, due to the inefficiencies of burning wood in an open area. In addition Northern Nicaragua is constantly affected by tropical storms and their aftermath. With mountain-sides stripped bare of trees, 1000s of families are at risk to mudslides and devastation. This can result in children missing school as they search further afield for firewood.

Project aims

In addition to building energy efficient stoves, which cut down wood consumption by 75%, our reforestation program will not only replenish what has been cut down, though ensure the longer-term survival of the local forests, whilst also providing fuel for the 100s of families in the area over the coming years. By replanting trees in the area, both threats of landslides and destruction and children missing school to collect firewood are minimized in the longer-term.

Long-term sustainability

By replanting trees, both threats of landslides and destruction and children missing school to collect firewood are minimized in the longer-term. In line with reforestation our community education programs will ensure that local people are educated in patience not to cut down a tree that is a year old, though wait until it is mature, during which time, further reforestation programs are conducted to allow sustainability.