Commonland

Commonland is a landscape restoration organisation based in Amsterdam that supports local people already working to restore their land. It works with partners in more than 35 landscapes across about 20 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific. Its 4 Returns framework measures restoration by four outcomes: inspiration, social, natural and financial returns.

Commonland looks beyond hectares planted: the 4 Returns are a sense of purpose for people, jobs and education and community ties, restored biodiversity and resilient landscapes, and long-term income from business models suited to each place. It reports more than 65,000 hectares under restoration and more than 20,000 people in its learning programs. Examples include southern Spain and Baviaanskloof-Langkloof in South Africa. It runs a 4 Returns learning network and landscape leadership labs, works with policymakers, and connects local partners with public and philanthropic funders and investors.