Seven African nations to sign a declaration to protect their tropical forests

The 22nd session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 22) and the 12th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 12) are currently underway in Marrakech, Morocco. Seven African countries are set to sign a declaration aimed at protecting their tropical forests by transitioning to sustainable palm oil production. This move is a significant step towards ensuring the preservation of valuable ecosystems and combating climate change. Joining CNBC Africa for insights on this crucial initiative is Marco Albani, Director for Tropical Forest Alliance 2020 and Member of the Executive Committee at the World Economic Forum. Albani emphasized the importance of the palm oil market in driving deforestation, particularly in tropical regions. The rapid growth of the palm oil industry has led to significant environmental impacts, with forests being cleared for agricultural purposes. In Africa, the palm oil sector is emerging as a key player following the developments in Southeast Asia. As major buyers commit to sourcing sustainable and responsible palm oil, engagement with governments overseeing land development for palm oil production becomes essential. The declaration, which has been endorsed by 7 African nations and supported by various stakeholders including civil society organizations, environmental NGOs, and indigenous groups, outlines a commitment to developing the palm oil market sustainably. By focusing on environmental and social criteria, the aim is to create shared value and drive inclusive development. Key Points: 1. Significance of the Declaration: The signing of the declaration by 7 African countries represents a major milestone in efforts to protect tropical forests. With these nations accounting for 70% of Africa's tropical forest and 13% of the global total, the impact on greenhouse gas emissions and climate change mitigation is substantial. 2. Implementation Challenges: While the commitment to sustainable palm oil production is commendable, the key challenge lies in translating these principles into actionable plans. Countries will need to develop national strategies for the palm oil sector, address issues of land use and governance, and engage in multi-stakeholder collaborations to ensure effective implementation. 3. Economic and Environmental Benefits: The shift towards sustainable palm oil production not only contributes to environmental conservation but also holds significant economic potential. By fostering the growth of the palm oil industry in a sustainable manner, there is an opportunity to enhance food security, lift people out of poverty, and create employment opportunities while positively impacting the climate. In a closing remark, Albani stressed the importance of balancing commercial interests with environmental conservation to achieve sustainable palm oil production. The focus on utilizing already degraded lands and building partnerships between public and private sectors is essential for driving this initiative forward. As African nations take a firm stand to protect their tropical forests through sustainable palm oil production, the global community looks towards these efforts as a critical step in preserving biodiversity and combating climate change.