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I recently had the privilege of immersing myself in the heart of some of the carbon offsetting projects we support through ATPI Halo. As a firm believer in the power of firsthand experience, I seized the opportunity to witness the tangible impact of our investments alongside our valued partners.
At ATPI, we take pride in offering certified offsetting projects directly to our clients, knowing that each contribution makes a meaningful difference.
Join me as I share the insights gained and the gratitude felt during this eye-opening exploration of our shared commitment to sustainability.
Luangwa Community Forests in Mfuwe, Zambia
I found myself immersed in the awe-inspiring landscape of the Luangwa Community Forests in Mfuwe. Led by Bio Carbon Partners (BCP), the REDD+ project here is nothing short of extraordinary. Spanning a vast expanse of approximately 1 million hectares, this initiative touches the lives of over 225,000 people in rural communities. In a country tackling significant deforestation challenges, BCP tackles the issue head-on, addressing poverty, environmental degradation, and climate change.
From the moment I set foot in this vibrant community, it was evident that BCP’s approach is deeply rooted in empowering local people. Through the proceeds of carbon offset sales, they facilitate community-driven projects tailored to the specific needs of each chiefdom. From pioneering clean water initiatives with boreholes to promoting conservation farming and even establishing vital medical facilities like the first maternity wing in Malama, BCP’s impact reverberates far and wide.
Central to all of this is their pivotal role in protecting the Luangwa forests. By funding and training forest rangers to combat poaching and agricultural encroachment, BCP secures not only the future of the forest but also the livelihoods of those who depend on it. The chiefdoms are integral to the success, and BCP’s inclusive approach is exemplary, and the benefits can be seen in improved livlihoods through engagement in the opportunities the conservation projects provide. Their efforts have earned them prestigious certifications such as the LCFP Verified Carbon Standard and the CCB Triple Gold Validation, underscoring their unparalleled commitment to community-centric conservation.
Earth Love Regenerative Farm
On my way to Zambia I re-visited the “Earth Love” regenerative farm on Lamu Island, Kenya. I witnessed amazing progress since my visit. Just a year ago. The tropical environment has nurtured thriving fruit trees and other crops. What was once a village dump site now yields fresh produce and spices for sale.
This transformation doesn’t stop at food production. Waste from the farm is ingeniously recycled into compost, fostering a cycle of sustainability.
The impact of regenerative farming extends beyond agriculture; it fosters community awareness about waste management and recycling in poor communities. This success story from a small island serves as a reminder that every community, no matter its size, can take bold steps towards protecting and enriching our ecosystems.
The Mangroves
Our journey to the mangroves aboard a dhow (a traditional sailing boat) unveiled their invaluable role in supporting both local communities and global ecosystems. These lush coastal forests not only sustain traditional fishing practices but also act as vital carbon sinks, sequestering CO2 and mitigating climate change on a broader scale.
However, the tranquility of this ecosystem belies the looming threats it faces. The area is vulnerable to overfishing by foreign vessels employing non-traditional methods, thus upsetting the delicate balance.
We witnessed firsthand the exploitation of resources as men plundered pristine sand from low-tide sandbanks within the mangroves for construction purposes. This unchecked activity not only jeopardizes the stability of the ecosystem but also endangers the feeding grounds of numerous bird and animal species.
The impact of supporting the projects
The impact of carbon offsetting projects isn’t measured just in credits but in transformed lives. I had the chance to witness firsthand the ripple effects of BCPs projects.Thanks to the partnership between BioCarbonPartners (BCP) and Respira International, carbon offsetting projects are funding vital borehole infrastructure across this rural landscape.
- Traditionally, farming led to deforestation and land degradation. BCP intervened, educating local farmers on sustainable practices like crop rotation and diversification to preserve their environment. The farmers, often facing human-wildlife conflicts, are learning to coexist with the wildlife sharing their land.
- I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of the boreholes drilled with carbon credit investments. Access to clean water has significantly reduced disease. It has also increased school attendance, and improved the lives of many who previously trekked for hours to reach water points.
- Speaking to BCP I learnt that the purchase of just a few carbon credits can fund certified seed for an entire crop. Lead farmers use their improved yields to invest in their homes and new income streams, like goats and chickens.
- Let’s not forget the bees. Local beekeepers, aided by BCP, transitioned to Kenyan bee-hives, quintupling their honey production. Coupled with guaranteed sales through Nature’s Nectar, this boost in income has brought tangible improvements to these remote communities.
- Ultimately, the benefits transcend economic gains. Improved farming yields mean more families can pay for their children to attend school, underscoring the invaluable role of education in breaking cycles of poverty.
In Luangwa, carbon compensation isn’t just about credits—it’s about cultivating sustainable livelihoods and fostering resilience in the face of adversity.
As I reflect on the transformative impact of witnessing these carbon compensation projects firsthand, I am filled with a sense of inspiration and hope. However, challenges persist, particularly with climate change threatening livelihoods. BCP remains at the forefront of this vital work, but they need ongoing support to sustain their efforts. Knowing that, alongside carbon-based reductions, the purchase of high quality, certified carbon credits to offset Scope 3 emissions is increasingly recognised as part of corporate environmental strategy, having seen the tangible difference that projects like this deliver, underlines the impact that even a small volume of carbon credits can make.
I am proud to say that we stand alongside BCP, not only assisting clients in supporting these projects but also ensuring our own ATPI commitment to their success.
