Nature For Justice

AFRICA: NATURE-BASED SOLUTION PROJECTS: In 2024, a strategic shift in investment direction by our primary Africa NbS program funder significantly affected our operations, forcing the suspension of most of the 21 projects in our portfolio. With strong local partnership networks, two projects in South AfricaSpekboom Restoration and community-led Marula Agroforestryare continuing and a third project in Ethiopia is expected to commence in early 2025. The foundation weve built in 2024 reinforces the power of community-led solutions to address the climate crisis. By securing early-stage investments and leveraging strategic partnerships, we aim to advance projects that create lasting social and ecological benefits. The Africa team has also developed a Social Safeguarding service offering, including FPIC (Free, Prior and Informed Consent) and benefit sharing support.

CANADA: FIRST 30X30. To drive progress towards Canadas pledge to protect 30 percent of its land by 2030, N4J formed in 2023 a partnership with the IISAAK OLAM Foundation and Nature Focus Development to leverage our networks with Indigenous communities across Canada. The First 30x30 program supports creation, management and long-term funding of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs). In 2024 the focus was on program development, relationship building, and working with Indigenous partners. Our team: Raised CAD $1.8 million from the Royal Bank of Canada and accepted donations from TELUS and Domtar; Strengthened relationships with Indigenous communities and other key stakeholders; Developed a network of collaborators with diverse expertise (including the National Indian Carbon Coalition, Nature Investment Hub, Social Carbon Foundation, and others).