Weaving the green thread: Forest and landscape restoration and nature-based-solutions for achieving the SDGs in Oromia and former SNNP regions of Ethiopia

Land degradation challenges Ethiopia's development, prompting its Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) strategy, which includes large-scale Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) initiatives. Viewing FLR as a critical Nature-Based Solution (NBS), this study explored and spatially identified potential FLR options within the Oromia and former SNNP regions. Employing participatory geospatial modeling and stakeholder engagement, we mapped ten viable FLR options (including agroforestry, bamboo restoration, plantations) based on predefined criteria. Substantial potential was revealed: approximately 16.6 million hectares (Mha) in Oromia and 6.05 Mha in the former SNNP region are suitable for one or more interventions. Agroforestry and lowland bamboo showed the largest single potential options. The existence of overlapping potentials underscores the need for integrated planning and prioritization at local levels. These findings highlight significant opportunities to leverage FLR/NBS to address environmental degradation, enhance livelihoods, and contribute to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 15 (Life on Land), 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), and 13 (Climate Action). Collaboration and prioritization among key actors are essential to weave this "green thread" towards sustainable landscapes and resilient communities in Ethiopia. However, indirect and direct measurements at specific pilots should be used to quantify the practical impacts (economic, ecosystem, climate mitigation, etc.) of such an intervention. This is one of the study's narrow focus areas.