The US has announced a new program to provide incentives for communities in developing countries to better manage forests and engage in sustainable land uses such as agroforestry.

The US Agency for International Development, through the private sector Althelia Climate Fund, will lend up to $133.8 million in commercial financing with the aim of removing 100 million tons of carbon from the atmosphere.

The funds are expected to finance hundreds of forest-based businesses in developing countries that rely on sustainably managed land use for their livelihoods, offering a pathway out of extreme poverty for many who depend on forest resources.

Agroforestry and ecotourism businesses will be able to receive commercial loans to expand their operations, and be eligible to earn carbon credits for forest maintenance and rehabilitation that can be sold on the voluntary carbon credit market.

Read the press release: U.S. Government, Althelia Climate Fund Mobilize $133.8 Million for Forest Conservation and Alternative Livelihoods