After severe flooding experienced last week in multiple areas on the island of Samar, the province started an initiative to combat climate change by launching a bamboo planting program. The program, which kicked off this week, aims to promote bamboo as a sustainable alternative to traditional forestry practices and to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The initiative aims to boost the bamboo industry within the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) and at the same time, help to mitigate climate change impacts and foster economic growth.
Implemented in collaboration with various entities, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Northwest Samar State University, Samar State University, and support from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the project focuses on reforesting degraded forest lands and watershed.
The said project will benefit the communities of Basey, Sta Rita, Matuguinao, Gandara, and San Jorge. “This effort will involve 1,154 residents from 26 villages engaging in activities such as site preparation, planting, and documentation and cash-for-work program under the DSWD,” Forester Wilfredo Lacambra of Samar Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office said.
The provincial government aims to plant 550 hectares with 110,000 bamboo seedlings in the next five years with P43.98 million in funding from the provincial government and DSWD.
In the first year, the program would require P15.43 million with P3.93 coming from DSWD under its Recovery and Rehabilitation Program, and PHP11.5 million from the provincial government, which will finance the supply of farm inputs, farm tools, and construction materials for the establishment of nursery among others.
Also, another P8.12 million is needed for the next four years for the maintenance and protection expenses, which will be provided by the province.
“The initiative not only seeks to combat climate change but also aims to generate employment, improve living standards, and empower women in the agriculture sector,” Lacambra added.
Sustainability
The program will also focus on promoting sustainable bamboo management practices, such as selective harvesting and replanting, to ensure long-term sustainability and environmental benefits.
According to Governor Sharee Ann Tan-De Guzman, "The Samar Bamboo Planting Program is not just about planting bamboo, but also about promoting sustainable development and preserving our environment for future generations."
As climate change continues to pose a significant threat to the environment and communities around the world, initiatives like the Samar Bamboo Planting Program offer hope for a more sustainable future. By promoting sustainable practices and alternative resources like bamboo, we can work towards mitigating the effects of climate change while also promoting economic development and preserving our natural resources for future generations.
Caption:
Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan. (Photo courtesy of Calbayog City information office)
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