The Dutch climate organization DGB Group aims to restore 12,000 hectares of native forests in Ethiopia’smountainous regions.
DGB’s flagship bamboo project has been added to the prestigious Verra Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) registry. This ensures that the project not only restores lost ecosystems but also generates measurable and verifiable carbon credits, which are essential for carbon financing.
Ethiopia’s ambitious forest restoration initiative
Ethiopia, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history, is now opening a new chapter in its sustainability journey. The country is positioning itself to mobilize billions of dollars in funding to combat climate change. A reforestation initiative led by the Dutch climate organization DGB Group is set to transform Ethiopia’senvironmental and economic future.
By restoring vast areas of native forests, Ethiopia is making significant strides toward securing its place in the global carbon finance market, a move that could unlock billions of dollars in climate funding.
Ethiopia’s ambitious carbon project
Ethiopia has taken a historic step by adding its latest reforestation project to the Verra Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) registry. This approval marks a milestone in the country’s sustainable development program, as it taps into the potential of its forests to secure much-needed carbon financing.
The Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) program is the world’s leading greenhouse gas (GHG) credit system. It channels funds into projects that reduce emissions, improve livelihoods, and preserve natural ecosystems.
Led by DGB Group, the project aims to restore 12,000 hectares of native forests in Ethiopia’s mountainous regions. Focused on afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation (ARR), the initiative addresses both environmental degradation and economic challenges. This project promises not only to combat climate change but also to bring tangible benefits to local communities.
Verra’s ARR methodology : Sustainability model
Verra’s updated ARR methodology forms the foundation of Ethiopia’s ambitious plan. It ensures that the project not only restores lost ecosystems but also generates measurable and verifiable carbon credits. These credits are a crucial element of the carbon finance market, where companies and governments purchase carbon offsets to meet their environmental commitments.
According to Samuel Rosmarin, Director of Investment and Development at African Bamboo, this project is a pivotal step toward attracting essential environmental funding for Ethiopia, a country with immense potential for nature-based solutions. « It paves the way for international investments that align with Ethiopia’s development goals », he said.
Role of bamboo in Ethiopia’s economy
Sustainable bamboo cultivation is at the heart of Ethiopia’s reforestation efforts. Often referred to as “nature’s miracle plant,” bamboo grows rapidly, is resilient, and can absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide in its stems and roots.
Ethiopia currently boasts the largest natural bamboo forest in Africa, but unsustainable harvesting practices have led to widespread deforestation. DGB’s initiative aims to reverse this trend by integrating bamboo cultivation into its agroforestry model. In doing so, the project not only mitigates climate change but also improves soil fertility, boosts local economies, and creates jobs.
Sustainable bamboo harvesting and processing have the potential to become a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s green economy, further positioning the country as a leader in nature-based solutions.
Community-focused solutions
The success of Ethiopia’s forest revolution lies not only in the number of trees planted but also in the emphasis on community-centered solutions. By partnering with local communities, DGB ensures that the reforestation project meets the needs of the populations involved.
Through sustainable bamboo cultivation and agroforestry practices, the initiative creates employment opportunities and fosters long-term economic growth in rural areas.
