CFFL - CHONGQING FORESTS

The project is the fourth allocation under the China Forestry Framework Loan (CFFL). It aims to establish 7,800 ha of forest plantations on abandoned, degraded agricultural land and on erosion-prone forest lands. The new plantations consist of fruit trees (5,225 ha), timber and bamboo stands (1,287 ha), and medicinal plants/trees (1,288 ha).

Besides providing the necessary economic benefits for the local farmers and villages to commit to the project, the project is expected to have a positive environmental impact through increased forest cover and sustainable management practices so as to combat soil erosion and land impoverishment, while improving water quality and healthier water ecosystems in the rivers. Forest carbon sequestration will help mitigate climate change, in line with EU policies.

The objective of the project is to plant trees to establish forest cover on environmentally fragile mountain slopes and abandoned, degraded agricultural lands. The plantations are expected to comprise native fruit trees, bamboo and timber-producing trees, and species producing ingredients for Chinese medicine. The project imposes environmentally and socially sustainable management and supports related capacity-building. It is expected to generate income and employment for rural people and reduce pressure to emigrate.

The Bank will require the promoter to ensure that implementation of the project will be done in accordance with the Bank's Guide to Procurement.