On Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Kisangani, a consultation was held bringing together various environmental civil society actors. The objective was to discuss the preliminary findings of an ongoing research on the impact of carbon markets on the collective rights of local and indigenous Pygmy communities, and to review conservation initiatives underway in Tshopo Province.
Organized by the Rainforest Foundation UK (RFUK) in collaboration with Actions for the Promotion and Protection of Endangered Peoples and Species (APEM), this meeting highlighted critical issues surrounding this emerging global market.
The consultation, held at the Joli Rêve reception center in the Makiso district, began with a detailed presentation of the current research status. Participants had the opportunity to discuss the informative document “Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Markets (and How to Defend Your Rights)”, developed by RFUK. This guide aims to inform and educate local communities and their advocates about the ins and outs of carbon markets, while equipping them to protect their rights against external pressures.
Maître Willy ELUA from APEM emphasized the crucial importance of this research for local communities, often dependent on forest resources for their livelihoods. He cautioned against potential risks of speculation and land grabbing, emphasizing the need for increased transparency and genuine consultation with affected communities.
Vittoria Moreti of RFUK added that preliminary results indicate a concerning trend where local communities may be compelled to enter agreements without fully understanding the long-term implications. She stressed the protection of rights, culture, and ways of life of indigenous communities, while advocating for alternatives to carbon markets such as payments for environmental services that ensure equitable participation and more stable, direct revenues for communities. She highlighted that structural challenges in this market, poorly regulated internationally and nationally, coupled with price speculation and fluctuations, could lead to land grabs, leaving communities in a state of uncertainty. She concluded that this market appears to grant polluters the right to continue polluting instead of committing to emission reductions.
The consultation concluded with the distribution of a practical guide containing 7 key questions to consider during the implementation of REDD/Carbon projects. These questions aim to ensure that community rights are respected, cultural integrity is preserved, and their voices are heard at every stage of the process.
Participants in the consultation included representatives from Tropenbos DRC, CIFOR, CPDH, GTCRR, media outlets, the forestry focal point of Tshopo, and other stakeholders concerned with this issue. This meeting in Kisangani not only provided an overview of the challenges and risks associated with carbon markets but also reinforced the commitment of participants to advocate for the interests of local communities. As the carbon market continues to grow globally, it is imperative that policymakers, businesses, and NGOs operating in this field commit to respecting community rights and ensuring their active and informed participation. The road to a fair and sustainable carbon market requires constant vigilance and close collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
By Franck Zongwe Lukama