USAID finds innovative opportunities to promote biodiversity conservation in Colombia

This habitat spans two million hectares of pastures that supply critical fodder for cattle sold in Colombian markets. The flooded savannas also provide potential for both above and below ground carbon capture. USAID's Natural Wealth Program identified an opportunity to conserve this ecosystem and support communities by promoting sustainable cattle-ranching activities that safeguard biodiversity and give local farmers access to differentiated markets while consolidating national policy on low-carbon development. Natural Wealth is implementing this approach by partnering with two local organizations: the Casanare's Cattle-Ranching Committee and the Cataruben Foundation. These organizations are led by women and are catalyzing the Program's efforts. A two-tiered approach is being implemented, with the first tier focusing on a sustainable cattle-ranching project that positively impacts beef quality and ecosystem health. This project links farmers who have signed 10-year conservation agreements with newly-created markets in Bogotá, including restaurants and supermarkets willing to pay a price premium for beef that safeguards the ecosystem. The second tier involves structuring payment for ecosystem services through above ground carbon sequestration, aiming to attract revenues from private actors such as energy company ISA and air carrier LATAM. This incentive will result in funding to preserve the flooded savanna that captures 64% of carbon, and improves livestock production. In partnership with the Casanare Cattle-Ranching Committee, Natural Wealth is offering a win-win opportunity for local communities to achieve self-reliance and biodiversity conservation. The initiative considers local llanero culture, communities' ties to their savannas, and traditional cattle ranching management, all of which have conserved the ecosystem for centuries. This approach empowers local communities, including women and youth, to better safeguard their livelihoods and achieve economic and social progress. Natural Wealth's work with Cataruben brings added value to the Government of Colombia, enabling it to identify physical areas for carbon capture and preservation. Furthermore, it presents an opportunity for companies working in Casanare's oil and gas-rich areas to buy local carbon credits that benefit the local community. Conserving Colombia's ecosystems is crucial, and safeguarding the flooded savannas provides access to new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and local entrepreneurs can partake in economic activities as an incentive to stay in the region. The initiative creates a positive feedback loop and opens the door for other projects that foster agricultural activities while conserving areas for carbon capture throughout Colombia. This approach is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).