Description: This initiative focused on empowering local tribal communities in New Caledonia to contribute to the ecological restoration of mining sites impacted by ultramafic soils, covering 29% of the territory. Traditionally involved in ornamental or fruit tree cultivation rather than native species for restoration, these communities were incorporated into the production chain. Nine face-to-face interviews with 14 stakeholders facilitated diagnostic and feasibility studies. A comprehensive technical guide was developed, delineating seed collection, extraction, processing, and cultivation practices, and detailing 35 pioneer species. Two out of four tribes actively engaged in disseminating this guide. About 71 beneficiaries acquired the guide, while 100 volunteers – comprising 50% women and 40% youth – received training in ecological restoration techniques. The project bridged the knowledge gap for tribal communities, enabling their active participation and mastery of tools through training courses, marking a pivotal step toward inclusive and sustainable ecological restoration endeavours within the region’s mining-affected areas.
Duration: 20 months
