A major carbon and biodiversity project in Ethiopia has ‘established a new benchmark for the voluntary carbon market’, Berlin-based startup goodcarbon has said.
The project will see up to 7,000 hectares of African montane forest restored, and over the next 40 years, it is expected to sequester 2.3 million tonnes of CO₂, enhance biodiversity, and support over 300,000 local residents.
goodcarbon developed the project alongside the Menschen für Menschen Foundation, with support from the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
A key element of the project is its collaboration with local communities, with at least 50% of carbon credit revenues paid directly to local communities.
The reforested land will also help to improve biodiversity, creating habitats for endangered species that have been absent from the regions for decades, including over 200 bird species.
The initiative will be situated in southern and southwestern Ethiopia, specifically the Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, an area that has seen high population growth and poverty, putting pressure on natural resources.
It forms part of the goodcarbon Originals project portfolio, which aims to prioritise maximum transparency and biodiversity conservation in ecologically valuable areas, around a community-focused model.
Climate justice
“goodcarbon Originals require extensive preparation to ensure they have a lasting impact on biodiversity, nature, and climate,” commented David Diallo, co-founder and managing director of goodcarbon.
“We are thrilled to see the first of these projects officially launched in Ethiopia. This is just the beginning of our commitment to climate justice, with many more ambitious projects in development. Each one is designed to set new standards in community engagement, longevity, and benefits that extend far beyond carbon sequestration.”
Sustainable initiatives
Other initiatives associated with the project include sustainable livestock programmes to improve animal husbandry, the building of new wells to provide clean water access, the expansion of healthcare services and vaccination programmes, the construction of three school blocks, and support for micro and small enterprises.
“We can only call our work successful, if we genuinely reach the people in the villages,” added Yilma Taye, country representative for Menschen für Menschen in Ethiopia. “Collaboration between all stakeholders, as demonstrated in this project, is crucial.”
Founded in 2021 in Berlin, goodcarbon specialises in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Read more here.
