Mupapa Wood Initiative Drives Climate Action with New Tree-Planting Campaign
… Ruth Ironside Chande says the effort Aims to Combat Climate Change and Restore Ecosystems in Zambia
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (18-09-2024) – The Mupapa Wood Initiative, under its Environmental and Social Sustainability Initiative (MESSI), has launched an ambitious tree-planting campaign aimed at addressing climate change in Zambia. This effort significantly enhances the country’s carbon sink capacity and combats environmental degradation.
The initiative focuses on planting indigenous tree species across degraded lands. Each mature tree can absorb up to 22 kilograms of CO2 annually, contributing notably to carbon sequestration.
Research by the World Resources Institute suggests that global reforestation efforts could offset up to 15% of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to carbon sequestration, the initiative aims to restore soil fertility and biodiversity. By employing methods similar to those of the Green Belt Movement in Kenya, it seeks to improve soil quality and agricultural productivity.
The project engages local communities in planting and maintaining the trees, creating jobs and fostering local ownership.
“We believe that involving local communities is crucial for the sustainability of our reforestation efforts,” said Caillan Mitchell, Environmental and Social Sustainability Lead.
Mitchell highlighted that the planting of 64 trees during the event symbolizes Zambia’s 60th anniversary, with expectations for these trees to mature and produce fruit over time.
“While this event represents a beginning, we have plans for additional planting sites across Zambia, focusing on indigenous trees to improve local communities’ nutritional well-being,” Mitchell stated.
He stressed the importance of collective effort and collaboration, acknowledging the support and donations from attendees.
Ruth Ironside Chande, founder and CEO of the Mupapa Wood Initiative Zambia, described the campaign as a comprehensive approach to combating climate change.
“Through carbon sequestration, land restoration, community involvement, sustainable agriculture, and education, we are making a substantial impact,” Chande said.
According to Chande, tree planting plays a crucial role in combating climate change through carbon sequestration.
“Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) during photosynthesis, with one mature tree capturing around 22 kilograms of CO2 annually, making forests highly effective natural carbon storage systems,” she explained.
However, Chande stresses that tree planting alone cannot solve the climate crisis, and transitioning away from fossil fuels remains the top priority.
“It should be part of a broader strategy that includes protecting existing forests and restoring ecosystems to enhance biodiversity and resilience to climate impacts,” she explained.
The success of tree-planting initiatives depends on factors like species selection and long-term maintenance. Effective projects prioritize native species and appropriate environments to maximize ecological benefits.
Tree planting, while essential, must be integrated into comprehensive climate strategies for meaningful impact.
Chande also pointed out the long-term benefits of reforestation in building climate resilience.
“Beyond carbon sequestration, trees contribute to improving local climates by regulating temperatures, reducing the effects of heatwaves, and restoring moisture levels in the air,” she noted.
Additionally, tree planting helps combat soil degradation, which is often exacerbated by climate change, and protects water sources, preventing drought and flooding.
“By planting trees, we are not just addressing the symptoms of climate change but also building a sustainable environment for future generations,” Chande noted.
Zambia’s annual loss of approximately 276,000 hectares of forest due to logging, agriculture, and urbanization underscores the need for such initiatives.
The Mupapa Wood Initiative’s efforts to plant thousands of indigenous and fruit-bearing trees aim to restore ecosystems and enhance biodiversity.
“Restoring our forests is vital for mitigating climate change and improving environmental health,” added Chande.
Deforestation has led to soil degradation, which reduces agricultural productivity through increased erosion and diminished soil fertility.
The initiative addresses these issues by stabilizing soil and preventing erosion. Agroforestry practices, similar to those in Kenya, have demonstrated benefits, including increased crop yields.
“Integrating trees into farming systems can significantly enhance soil health and crop productivity,” Chande noted.
Climate change has altered temperature and precipitation patterns, impacting agriculture.
Trees play a crucial role in moderating local climates, providing microclimates, and acting as windbreaks. Notably, tree planting in Zimbabwe has improved crop growth by reducing temperature fluctuations.
“Trees can help stabilize local climates and improve agricultural outcomes,” Chande explained.
Deforestation also affects water cycles and hydroelectric power. Healthy forests regulate water flow, essential for maintaining river levels that feed hydroelectric dams.
Reforestation efforts in Ethiopia have shown improvements in river flow and support for hydropower projects.
“Forests play a critical role in regulating water cycles and supporting sustainable energy resources,” Chande added.
Muntanga Lindunda, Chief Executive Officer at the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), emphasized the importance of manufacturers contributing to environmental sustainability.
“Manufacturers must play a role in environmental sustainability, as they depend on natural resources,” Lindunda said.
She highlighted that the Mupapa Wood Initiative aligns with broader strategies for environmental protection and corporate social responsibility.
“Balancing development with environmental preservation is essential, and this initiative promotes responsible production practices,” he added.
The event aligns with Zambia’s 60th anniversary celebrations, with a goal to plant 1,600 trees.
Planting 64 trees today is already seen as a significant achievement. Lindunda remarked, “The initiative represents a meaningful gesture from manufacturers, demonstrating their commitment to giving back and celebrating Manufacturers’ Month.”
Kufuna Mwangala, Officer in Charge at Mwembeshi Open Air Prison, expressed gratitude to attendees and acknowledged the absence of the Director of Farms, who also supported the initiative.
Mwangala emphasized that the tree-planting project should expand to other facilities and regions.
“Tree planting should become part of our culture at both the institutional and individual levels,” Mwangala said.
He noted that tree planting and sustainable agriculture are crucial for addressing deforestation and climate change.
Mwangala highlighted that the project serves as a rehabilitation tool, teaching inmates valuable skills and providing food through fruit trees.
“Tree planting not only improves air quality and reduces pollution-related illnesses but also contributes to the well-being of both humans and animals,” he stated.
He encouraged extending the project to maximize its environmental, health, and educational benefits.
Mutinta Phiri, Marketing Manager at FSG Lead, stressed the importance of considering the environment in successful initiatives.
“The unprecedented drought this year underscores the need for collaboration and collective action,” Phiri said.
She emphasized that working together can achieve more significant results than individual efforts alone.
“Successful tree planting requires proper care and nutrition, much like nurturing growth in babies,” she added.
Phiri expressed gratitude for the efforts and partnerships involved in making a positive impact through the campaign.
