Understanding the carbon credit market: Part two
How landowners can maximise carbon credit opportunities
As the demand grows for carbon credits, landowners have a significant opportunity to generate income by participating in the market. But how can they position their land for success?
Types of projects for landowners
Focusing on two key methods: soil carbon improvement and reforestation (environmental planting), offers accessible ways to engage in carbon offset projects. These methods have wide applicability, a positive impact on the environment, and can earn carbon credits which are highly in demand. Both offer additional benefits, allowing landowners to enhance their land’s productivity while contributing to sustainability goals.
For a closer look at pros and cons of tree planting versus soil carbon projects, check out Dig it or plant it? Choosing the right carbon offset path.
Soil carbon improvements: This involves increasing the amount of carbon stored in the soil, typically through practices like applying organic fertiliser, cover cropping, and rotational grazing. These methods not only capture carbon but also improve soil fertility, water retention, and crop yields, making them a win-win for landowners and the environment.
Reforestation projects: Planting trees is one of the most straightforward ways to capture carbon. By restoring degraded land or planting trees in areas that would otherwise be unused, landowners can earn carbon credits, while enhancing the local ecosystem. Trees also have other benefits, such as improving water quality, creating habitat for wildlife, and providing windbreaks for farms.
Working with the right partners
Carbon project developers or companies specialising in credit certification, are important for successfully entering the market. Developers can help landowners set up projects that meet the standards for earning credits like ACCUs (Australian Carbon Credit Units). They can also help navigate the process of registering projects with the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) and ensure they meet the required environmental, social and governance criteria.
Understanding market trends
It’s essential for landowners to stay updated on carbon market trends. Demand for credits, especially from nature-based projects, is growing and landowners can benefit from this shift. As carbon markets mature, there will likely be new opportunities to participate, especially with the growing focus on premium credits and additional benefits.
Unlocking the carbon credit potential
As the carbon credit market continues to expand, landowners have an increasing opportunity to generate new income streams through nature-based projects like reforestation and soil carbon sequestration. By aligning with the right partners and meeting market standards, they can not only profit, but also contribute significantly to the fight against climate change. With new opportunities emerging, now is the ideal time to explore how carbon projects could benefit both the environment and your bottom line.
Read about environmental planting success stories in NSW:
Trees that pay their way: Environmental planting success in NSW
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