Environmental Management and Development Trust

Created in 1997, Environmental Management and Development Trust (EMADET) has created a powerful alternative to deforestation and single use plastics in southwestern Nigeria. Through the promotion of cacao agroforestry the organization has supported cultivation of economically useful understory crops, including the so-called miracle fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii). Miracle fruit leaves can be used as an alternative to the use of nylon for packaging local hot food. EMADET has built a dynamic network of women market traders of miracle fruit leaves in six towns by providing them with training in cooperatives and microcredit financing. By building capacity for more production of miracle fruit and other understory crops in cacao agroforests, the initiative strives to reduce biodiversity loss while enhancing food security. At the same time, its innovative promotion of alternatives to plastic provides an influential model for local economies around the world.