Productive Landscapes (ProLand): Prioritizing Investments in Land-Based Climate Mitigation in Madagascar

Avoided forest conversion has the largest overall potential for climate mitigation, with the majority of this potential concentrated in the eastern rainforest, particularly at higher elevations, and in small pockets of conversion of highly carbon-dense mangrove systems along the country's west coast. Madagascar's forests are highly fragmented, with relatively small parts of the country's remaining forests designated as Intact Forest Landscapes. These remaining landscapes are generally located in the higher elevation parts of the eastern rainforests, where carbon density is highest. This indicates a strong overlap between biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration efforts. The National REDD+ Strategy identifies priority regions for forest conservation and reforestation, which are primarily located in the eastern rainforests. These regions have high carbon stocks and are critical for maintaining the country's forest cover. The strategy also emphasizes the importance of sustainable land-use planning and management to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. Assessment of restoration potential in Madagascar indicates that the country has significant opportunities for forest restoration, particularly in areas with high carbon stocks. Restoration suitability analyses suggest that agroforestry systems, assisted natural regeneration, and forest landscape restoration are viable options for restoring degraded forests and promoting sustainable land-use practices. Carbon footprint assessment and carbon crediting in commodities of interest, such as cocoa and coffee, have the potential to generate significant carbon credits. Agroforestry systems, in particular, have been shown to have high carbon sequestration potential, making them an attractive option for carbon crediting. The Government of Madagascar has established a national REDD+ program to promote sustainable land-use practices and reduce deforestation and forest degradation. The program aims to conserve and restore forests, promote sustainable agriculture, and support the development of carbon markets. Madagascar's forests play a critical role in maintaining the country's biodiversity and ecosystem services. The loss of these forests would have significant impacts on the country's economy, livelihoods, and climate. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize investments in land-based climate mitigation and promote sustainable land-use practices to conserve and restore Madagascar's forests. The National REDD+ Strategy emphasizes the importance of sustainable land-use planning and management to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. The strategy also highlights the need for community engagement and participation in forest conservation and restoration efforts.