One tree, one inhabitant: Franco-Senegalese reforestation project wins the PLATFORMAwards
The “One tree, one inhabitant” programme, a collaborative effort between the French department of Isère and the Boundou Community Natural Reserve in eastern Senegal, has won the 1st prize at the PLATFORMAwards. This prestigious award recognises excellence in decentralised development cooperation.
The initiative aims to combat climate change through large-scale reforestation, fostering carbon capture and helping local communities adapt to the effects of global warming. By promoting sustainable environmental practices, the programme exemplifies how regional partnerships can drive impactful climate action.
Sandrine Martin-Grand, First Vice-President of Isère and Baba Ndiaye, Mayor of Dougué and President of the Conservatoire de la Reserve Naturelle Communautaire du Boundou (CORENA) received their award today [1st April 2025] at a ceremony held during the World Forum of Local Economic Development (WFLED) in Seville, Spain. To further highlight the project’s achievements, a documentary video will be produced in the coming months, showcasing the positive impact of this local-to-local cooperation.
Two other outstanding initiatives were also recognised at the PLATFORMAwards. “Les Elegides,” a project focused on empowering women in local politics, developed between the 52 municipalities of Mallorca (Spain) and Bolivian local governments, secured second place. Meanwhile, an inter-institutional cooperation programme on water and sanitation between Euskadi (Spain) and Central America claimed third place on the podium.
Organised for the fourth time by PLATFORMA, a pan-European coalition of local and regional governments, the PLATFORMAwards celebrate outstanding contributions to decentralised cooperation. A jury of seven independent experts, including elected officials, policymakers, and development practitioners, carefully evaluated the applications to select the most impactful projects.
Through initiatives like “One tree, one inhabitant,” decentralised cooperation continues to play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, demonstrating the power of local partnerships in fostering sustainable development and defending local populations.