Overview

SCF has approved a technical assistance grant for a land baseline assessment for a bamboo plantation and processing in Guatemala which will sequester carbon and produce a sustainable alternative to timber. Wubu, the project developer, is a pioneering company that specializes in the development of sustainable circular productive systems centered around bamboo. Their core focus lies in the establishment of bamboo plantations within agroforestry systems, aimed at revitalizing degraded land and promoting food security.

The Challenge

Guatemala stands out as one of the nations In Latin America most susceptible to the impact of climate change. Since 1960, the country has witnessed an average annual temperature rise of 0.6 °C and a gradual escalation of 2.5% in the frequency of hot days per decade. Moreover, the past two decades have seen a sharp increase in the occurrence of both droughts and floods, resulting in substantial economic setbacks for the nation. In that context, the establishment of bamboo plantations on degraded land emerges as a promising solution. Boasting a remarkable capacity for carbon sequestration (50 to 100 tonnes of CO2 per hectare annually), bamboo can play an important role in global carbon sequestration efforts.

Additionally, the demand for building materials such as timber, rubber and plastic has a high carbon footprint. As an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood sources, bamboo use can also address the pressing issue of deforestation, offering sustainable materials for construction and various industries.

Aware of the inequality and lack of employment opportunities in the country, Wubu is also committed to maintaining a substantial portion of the bamboo value chain within their country and communities. This commitment translates into the creation of fair and well-paid employment opportunities, ensuring gender equality, and actively contributing to poverty reduction efforts. Wubu actively designs sustainable eco-villages, integrating renewable energy solutions for affordable and reliable power supply, while also addressing the basic needs of the communities.

By promoting the cultivation of bamboo, the project in Guatemala not only combats climate change but also fosters a more resilient and environmentally conscious approach to economic development. Through innovative strategies that harness the potential of bamboo, Wubu can pave the way towards a greener and more sustainable future, ensuring both ecological preservation and economic prosperity in the communities surrounding its plantation.

SCF’s Involvement

Technical Assistance

The SCF has approved a grant for a land baseline assessment including:

• Site inspection.
• Current site status and ownership.
• Site history.
• Suitability for growing bamboo.
• Potential for intercropping.
• Climate resiliency assessment –flood, drought, water supply, storms, etc.