In a major boost for global climate efforts, Norway has pledged $20 million to Colombia to protect its iconic rainforests—a move announced at the COP16 Biodiversity Summit in Cali this week. The funds aim to tackle illegal deforestation, support Indigenous communities, and preserve one of Earth’s most biodiverse regions.
Norwegian Climate Minister Tore Sandvik praised Colombia’s progress, noting deforestation hit a 23-year low in 2023. 'Colombia’s rainforests are a global treasure,' he said. 'This partnership shows what focused action can achieve.'
The three-year plan builds on a collaboration dating back to 2015, which has already strengthened law enforcement and promoted sustainable farming. New funding will help small farmers adopt eco-friendly practices and empower Indigenous groups to safeguard ancestral lands.
With illegal logging and mining threatening the Amazon, Norway’s investment underscores the urgency of cross-border climate action. As Sandvik put it: 'When rainforests win, we all win.'
The funds aim to tackle illegal deforestation, support Indigenous communities, and preserve one of Earth’s most biodiverse regions.
'Colombia’s rainforests are a global treasure,' he said. 'This partnership shows what focused action can achieve.'
