How Ecuador Achieved a Groundbreaking Milestone in Forest Conservation

Ecuador recently announced a remarkable milestone: it has become the first country to fully halt deforestation of its tropical forests. This historic achievement underscores the powerful potential of nature-based solutions—approaches that address climate change while delivering a range of co-benefits to people, ecosystems, and economies.

Stopping deforestation isn’t just about saving trees. Tropical forests like Ecuador’s are home to diverse ecosystems, supporting thousands of plant and animal species that rely on the stability of these habitats. By protecting these forests, Ecuador is also preserving critical water sources, maintaining fertile soils for agriculture, and safeguarding the livelihoods of communities who depend on forest resources.

Image: Mashpi Lodge, 2024

Beyond biodiversity and local benefits, Ecuador’s efforts have global implications. Forests are among the most effective natural carbon sinks, absorbing vast amounts of CO2 and helping stabilize the climate. By halting deforestation, Ecuador is making a significant contribution to global climate goals, offering a model for other countries to follow.

Stories like these offer a glimpse into what’s possible when we approach climate action through a nature-based lens.

The solutions aren’t always easy, but they are often some of the most profound—providing value not just for the environment, but for the people and communities who depend on it. For CO2GPT, Ecuador’s achievement is a reminder of the potential that lies in combining nature, innovation, and determination.

See full press release from LEAF Coalition here.