This presentation will detail the SAVi (Sustainable Asset Valuation) methodological approach as applied to mangrove reforestation projects in the Sine Saloum and Casamance regions of Senegal. It will highlight how SAVi combines analytical tools while taking into account local ecological and socio-economic contexts. The presentation will also cover the assessment of climate-related impacts.
In particular, the presentation will showcase the monetization of benefits generated for local communities, quantifying positive outcomes such as improved livelihoods, job creation, enhanced ecosystem service value, and contributions to food security. Through this comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, the SAVi methodology supports informed decision-making and demonstrates the added value of mangrove reforestation projects in promoting sustainable and inclusive development in these regions.
The session also aims to foster an open exchange with participants around the preliminary results of the cost-benefit analysis, to gather their feedback and suggestions, and to collectively validate the relevance and significance of the findings presented.
Edoardo Carlucci is a Policy Advisor with the Economic Law and Policy Program at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), where he specializes in sustainable finance. His work focuses on developing financing solutions for nature- based infrastructure (NBI) and conducting Sustainable Asset Valuation (SAVi) assessments to help stakeholders demonstrate the benefits of NBI. He is also involved in designing financing strategies for sustainable transportation projects.
Before joining IISD, Edoardo worked with BETTER FINANCE, where he contributed to research on sustainable finance regulation within the EU, including the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), the EU taxonomy for sustainable activities, and financial governance. He holds a degree in Economics from Sapienza University of Rome and a Master’s in European Studies from the Université Libre de Bruxelles. A polyglot based in Geneva, Edoardo speaks English, French, and Italian.
Polyglotte, il est basé à Genève et parle anglais, français et italien.
The study conducted in the Saloum Delta National Park (SDNP) estimates a total economic value of 3.395 billion CFA francs, of which 76.59% is derived from regulatory services such as carbon sequestration and coastal protection. Provisioning services—notably fisheries and fish processing—generate over 649 million CFA francs per year, with a significant participation of women (45.3%) in artisanal processing. Based on data from 139 local stakeholders, the study highlights major threats to these unique ecosystems—76,000 hectares of mangroves—including deforestation, climate change, and fragmented governance structures.
The findings emphasize the importance of:
As Baba Dioum aptly stated, "The mangrove is our shared home." The SDNP stands as a testament that its preservation depends on achieving a balance between ecological resilience, social equity, and economic valorization.
El Hadji Bakary Kanté is an agronomist specializing in forestry (ENSA Thiès, High Distinction). A specialist in sustainable ecosystem management, he has five years of experience in ecosystem service valuation—including a pioneering assessment estimating SDNP’s value at 34.3 billion CFA francs/year—as well as in remote sensing (ArcGIS, QGIS, drone operation) and climate change mitigation (Nationally Determined Contributions focal point).
A certified drone pilot trainer and former lecturer at Nelson Mandela University, he is the focal point for several key projects and programs,
(Natur’ELLES, Agropole Centre, MANCO), while actively promoting gender inclusion. Passionate about science-based, community-centered solutions, he bridges technological innovation (Kobo Toolbox, GIS) with local knowledge systems.
