Erdo

Environmental and Rural Development Organization

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Highlights

Empowering Rural Communities Through Sustainable Development   |   Providing Access to Clean Water and Sanitation   |   Promoting Health and Nutrition for All   |   Enhancing Livelihoods with Vocational Training   |   Fostering Education and Literacy in Underserved Area Building   |   Advancing Women’s Rights and Gender Equality   |   Supporting Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth

Our Works:

Overview

Environmental protection is crucial for the sustainable development and well-being of Somalia. The country faces numerous environmental challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, desertification, and the impact of climate change. These issues have severe implications for livelihoods, food security, and the overall health of ecosystems. The Environmental & Rural Development Organization (ERDO) is committed to addressing these challenges through comprehensive environmental protection initiatives that promote sustainable practices and conserve natural resources.

The Current Environmental Challenges in Somalia

  1. Deforestation and Land Degradation

    • Overgrazing and Charcoal Production: Overgrazing by livestock and the widespread practice of charcoal production have led to significant deforestation and land degradation. This not only reduces the availability of fertile land for agriculture but also contributes to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.
    • Agricultural Expansion: Unsustainable agricultural practices, such as slash-and-burn farming, further exacerbate land degradation, making it difficult to sustain crop production and livelihoods.

  2. Desertification

    • Climate Change: Increasing temperatures and changing rainfall patterns due to climate change are accelerating desertification in Somalia. This process turns once-productive land into arid deserts, reducing the availability of arable land and water resources.
    • Soil Erosion: Wind and water erosion, compounded by the loss of vegetation cover, contribute to the desertification process, threatening the livelihoods of communities dependent on agriculture and livestock.

  3. Marine and Coastal Degradation

    • Overfishing and Illegal Fishing: Overfishing, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, depletes fish stocks and damages marine ecosystems. Local communities, which rely on fishing for their livelihoods, are particularly affected by these unsustainable practices.
    • Pollution: Coastal areas are increasingly threatened by pollution from both land-based and marine sources. Plastic waste, oil spills, and other pollutants harm marine life and degrade coastal habitats

ERDO'S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION INITIATIVES:

  • Tree Planting Campaigns: ERDO organizes tree planting campaigns to restore degraded lands and combat deforestation. By involving local communities in these efforts, we promote environmental stewardship and create sustainable sources of fuel, fodder, and timber.
  • Agroforestry: We promote agroforestry practices that integrate trees into agricultural systems. This approach not only enhances biodiversity but also improves soil health, water retention, and crop yields.
  • Soil Conservation: ERDO implements soil conservation techniques, such as terracing, contour plowing, and the use of cover crops, to reduce soil erosion and improve land productivity.
  • Pasture Management: We work with pastoralist communities to develop sustainable grazing practices that prevent overgrazing and land degradation. This includes rotational grazing and the establishment of pasture reserves.
  • Water Conservation: ERDO promotes water conservation practices, such as rainwater harvesting and the construction of small dams, to ensure the availability of water for agriculture and domestic use during dry periods.
  • Renewable Energy: We support the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce reliance on charcoal and other non-renewable energy sources. This helps to mitigate the impact of climate change and protect natural resources.
  • Community-Based Fisheries Management: ERDO works with coastal communities to develop sustainable fisheries management plans that protect fish stocks and marine habitats. This includes the establishment of marine protected areas and the promotion of responsible fishing practices.
  • Pollution Control: We implement initiatives to reduce marine pollution, such as beach clean-up campaigns and awareness programs on the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

    • ERDO

    ERDO is committed to expanding our environmental protection initiatives to reach more communities in need. By promoting sustainable practices, restoring degraded lands, and conserving natural resources, we aim to build a more resilient and sustainable future for Somalia.

    Environmental Protection-ERDO