Southern Cardamom

Overview

The Southern Cardamom REDD+ Project (SCRP) in Cambodia represents a crucial effort to protect one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant regions on Earth while mitigating climate change through sustainable forest management. Encompassing part of the Southern Cardamom National Park and Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary, this project spans 465,839 hectares and aims to reduce over 116 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) emissions over a 30-year period. However, recent allegations of human rights abuses have raised concerns about the project's integrity and effectiveness.

Environmental impact

The SCRP plays a pivotal role in preserving the Cardamom Mountains Rainforest Ecoregion, a global biodiversity hotspot and critical watershed for the Gulf of Thailand. By safeguarding vital ecosystems and species habitats, including those of the Asian elephant, Asiatic black bear, and Siamese crocodile, the project contributes to climate regulation and sustains livelihoods dependent on the region's natural resources. Through sustainable forest protection and community engagement, SCRP mitigates deforestation and habitat loss, preserving biodiversity for future generations.

Social benefits

In collaboration with the Royal Government of Cambodia and Wildlife Works, SCRP implements community development programs to empower local residents and promote alternative livelihoods. However, allegations of human rights abuses and unsuccessful community collaboration have undermined trust in the project's positive impacts. Despite generating revenue from ecotourism and supporting local businesses, concerns remain regarding equitable benefit-sharing and genuine community participation.

Certification

Certified under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community & Biodiversity (CCB) Gold standards, SCRP has demonstrated significant emission reductions and biodiversity conservation outcomes. However, recent allegations of human rights abuses have raised concerns about the project's social integrity and long-term sustainability. Despite achieving positive impacts on species protection and tourism revenue, SCRP must address systemic issues to regain trust and credibility among stakeholders.

Documentation