Awarding of the UN Equator Prize for the BiK-F partner organization REDERC in Benin

The "Equator Prize 2010" will be awarded to NGO REDERC (Réseau de Développement de Réserves naturelles Communautaires). BiK-F members co-founded this network for the development of local conservation areas two years ago. The Equator Initiative, a UN-lead network to support local initiatives that protect biodiversity and fight poverty, announced their decision to give NGO REDERC an award on July 15th 2010.

The prize is worth 5000 US-Dollars and honours local communities in tropical developing countries that practice the sustainable use of natural ressources and reduce poverty in an exemplary manner. It is awarded to 25 initiatives every two years. This year 300 applications have been submitted to the committee. The presentation of prizes will be held in New York this September, a few days ahead of this years UN General Assembly.

REDERC focuses on establishing local conservation areas, increasing environmental awareness, keeping traditional knowledge and implementing a sustainable, wealth creating, climata and environment adapting usage of natural ressources.

REDERC-members at work in the botanic garden of Papatia.