Bio-diversity

The local CBO based in YUS LLG in Kabwum District, Morobe Province is approved a Full Grant of US$31, 378.00 under the STAR allocation. This project will support the GEF Focal area of Forest Management and Land Degradation plus Biodiversity Conservation. The project will be supporting the role of the community based organization and landowners of PNG s first conservation area, YUS Conservation Area through a community driven initiative. The project aims to improve livelihoods through cocoa production and have already secured overseas interest to supply the cocoa to a chocolate manufacturer in the US. The grant will be used to obtain certification of the product and develop a benefit sharing arrangement that will relieve population pressure from the conservation area. Share tree planting activities will also be conducted. This project will enhance the capacity of the YUS Conservation Organization and customary landowners to sustainably manage the YUS Conservation Area through long term conservation, appropriate management and economic development of local resources and opportunities.

Papua new guinea