A recent study validates four key nature-based climate solutions that are commonly used by companies to claim carbon credits. These solutions include conservation or reforestation of tropical forests, as well as conservation or reforestation of temperate forests. The research, published in Nature Climate Change, highlights the strong scientific foundation behind these methods.
Nature-based climate solutions encompass strategies aimed at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and removing carbon from the atmosphere. Over 100 countries participating in the Paris Accords have incorporated these solutions into their climate plans, with countries like Indonesia, Colombia, and China already implementing them to demonstrate progress.
While the study focused on the scientific validity and expert confidence in 43 solutions, it did not delve into the implementation of individual projects or the calculation of carbon credits. Of the solutions examined, carbon-crediting protocols exist for 35, with 70% of credits attributed to projects related to the four forest-based categories deemed most credible by the researchers.
Coauthor Ruth DeFries emphasized the importance of science-based approaches for effective climate action, while coauthor Steven Hamburg stressed the need for further research to clarify the mitigation potential of other nature-based solutions. Nature-based climate solutions are crucial for meeting climate goals, making it imperative to focus on actions supported by sound science.
Content adapted from a press release by the Environmental Defense Fund.
