Celebrated every year on April 22nd, is a worldwide call for environmental protection. This year, however, there's exciting news emerging from the heart of Africa. A recent study revealed that forests certified by FSC® in the Congo Basin are thriving with wildlife!
Published in the leading scientific journal, Nature, the study shows a clear link between FSC certification and healthier ecosystems. Researchers found that FSC certified forests in Gabon and the Republic of Congo boast a significantly higher abundance of large mammals compared to non-certified equivalents. This includes
critically endangered species like gorillas and elephants.
The secret behind this positive impact likely lies in the stricter regulations on hunting that FSC certification enforces. By reducing hunting pressure, these forests provide safe havens for wildlife populations. This not only benefits the animals themselves, but also contributes to the well-being of local communities by minimising the risk of diseases transmitted from wild animals to humans.