Project Calao

Afforestation & Reforestation

Landscape restoration and sustainable timber production in Ivory Coast

The Calao project is a comprehensive landscape restoration initiative combining ecological restoration with sustainable economic development. Spanning 35,000 hectares across the N'zi Voluntary Nature Reserve and the Mafa massif (regrouping the 4 classified forests of Mafa, Besse-Boca, Laka and Fetekro), the project addresses severe land degradation through a multi-faceted approach that integrates native forest restoration, sustainable timber production, and agroforestry systems. The project plans on restoring more than 10,000 hectares of degraded savannah, 8,000 hectares of teak and gmelina plantation in heavily degraded areas, and 500 hectares of shea trees to support community shea butter processing. Working in partnership with the N'zi Wildlife Conservation Foundation and SODEFOR, the project provides employment and economic activity in the region while protecting and enhancing habitat within private forest reserves and classified forests.

Activities

Native forest restoration: Over 10,000 hectares of degraded savannah restored

Sustainable timber plantations: 8,000 hectares of teak and gmelina planted in heavily degraded areas, providing renewable timber resources while restoring forest cover (initiated in 2023)

Shea agroforestry: 500 hectares of shea trees planted to support community-led shea butter processing and enhance local livelihoods

Community partnership: Collaborative implementation with local communities ensuring benefit-sharing and active participation in restoration activities

Impact & evolution

35,000
hectares

2,400,000
CO2 emissions sequestrated

10
IUCN-threatened protected species

Standards

Further information

Start year of operations

2023

First credit issuance

2028

Partnership with

hummingbirds is partnering with the N'Zi River Lodge and the N'zi Wildlife Conservation Foundation to develop and certify the project. The national forest development company (SODEFOR) provides technical expertise and support for timber plantations.