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Old growth forests of Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape as effective carbon sinks to mitigate impacts of climate Change
USAID researchers measure a towering Manggis tree in southern Palawan, Philippines.

Field researchers on USAID’s Sustainable Interventions for Biodiversity, Oceans, and Landscapes project recorded the measurements of a towering Manggis tree in Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape (MMPL) in southern Palawan, Philippines. They did this as part of the comprehensive ecological assessment they conducted to determine the status of species, habitats, and threats in the protected area. Manggis trees are towering species commonly found in old-growth forests of MMPL. Together with the rich soil and other trees in old-growth forests, Manggis trees are vital for sequestering carbon in the atmosphere. However, with the increase in activities such as timber poaching, slash-and-burn farming, charcoal making, fuelwood collection, and construction/development activities, the Manggis and old-growth forests are under threat. USAID is working with the protected area management office in MMPL to update their management plans through the results of the Agency’s biodiversity assessment. This will help local stakeholders craft better-informed programs and policy decisions for protecting the forests and biodiversity of MMPL to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Towering Manggis Trees on Mt. Mantalingahan Sequester Carbon

2023 Photo Contest Winner submission_type Winner
Photographer Blue Motus
Copyright © 2023 Blue Motus for USAID

Country Philippines
Topics Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity Conservation, Natural Climate Solutions

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