This is the largest carbon emission reduction program in Cambodia’s land use sector. The project protects habitat for Asia’s most threatened species including Asian elephants, gibbons, and the giant ibis. This work is part of Cambodia’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement. Formalized land and resource use rights for local communities.
Type: REDD+, Carbon Reduction
Partner: Wildlife Conservation Society
Region/Country: Cambodia
Standard: Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standard (CCB)
KSWS is home to two ecoregions: the Annamite Mountains (notable for high levels of local endemism among evergreen forest species) and the lower Mekong dry forests (which are crucial for the survival of many species typical of lowland deciduous forests). Photo credit: Filip Agoo / Everland
KSWS is home to two ecoregions: the Annamite Mountains (notable for high levels of local endemism among evergreen forest species) and the lower Mekong dry forests (which are crucial for the survival of many species typical of lowland deciduous forests). Photo credit: Filip Agoo / Everland
This project provides income streams for the residents and landowners. It also provides its indigenous residents with food, fuel, building materials, and spiritual sites. The community regularly uses medicinal plants from the forest as well.
A cashew tree with red cashew apples. Photo credit: Filip Agoo / Everland
It is home to the highest number of species record in any protected area including more than 350 bird species have been observed here. Additionally, it is a home to several different monkey species and around a quarter of Cambodia’s remaining wild elephant population. More that 15 new species have been discovered in this protected forest.
An Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) strolling along a river (IUCN Red List: Endangered). Photo credit: Filip Agoo / Everland