Gishwati forest restoration in western Rwanda
Just as mangrove restoration in the Philippines reduced storm surges and protected coastal communities, the restoration of Gishwati Forest in Rwanda has helped reduce floods and landslides in neighboring communities. In both cases, the destruction of natural ecosystems increased vulnerability to climate disasters, while restoration strengthened natural protection. Gishwati’s restored forest now stabilizes soils, regulates water flow, and reduces runoff, helping downstream communities face fewer and less severe floods. Both stories show that ecosystem restoration is a powerful, community-benefiting solution to climate change impacts.
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