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Enhancing Climate Action in the Cruise Industry The Role of Green Initiative as a Climate Certifier

Enhancing Climate Action in the Cruise Industry: The Role of Green Initiative as a Climate Certifier

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The cruise industry has long been synonymous with luxury travel, breathtaking ocean views, and world-class entertainment. However, it is also increasingly scrutinized for its environmental impact. Cruise ships contribute to CO₂ emissions, air pollution, and marine ecosystem degradation, making their decarbonization a critical priority in global climate action. At the forefront of this transformation is Green Initiative, a global leader in climate certification for the tourism industry. As cruise companies strive to reduce their carbon footprints, Green Initiative provides the expertise, tools, and verification frameworks to support their journey toward reducing their carbon footprints, integrating climate-positive solutions, and leading the industry toward a net-zero future. In this article, we explore how Green Initiative is shaping the future of sustainable cruising by helping companies measure, reduce, and offset their emissions while setting new standards for climate-positive tourism. Why Cruise Ships Must Act on Climate With the growth of the cruise industry, environmental concerns have become more urgent. According to International Maritime Organization (IMO) studies, the shipping sector—including cruise ships—accounts for nearly 3% of global CO₂ emissions. While efforts have been made to improve efficiency, the industry remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, producing greenhouse gases, sulfur oxides (SOₓ), and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) that contribute to climate change and air pollution. Some of the biggest environmental challenges in the cruise sector include: Despite these challenges, the cruise industry has a unique opportunity to lead in climate action. The adoption of low-carbon fuels, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainability certifications is rapidly gaining traction. Regulatory and Market Forces Driving Change To accelerate its sustainability efforts, the cruise industry must comply with global, regional, and corporate sustainability regulations. Key Regulations Impacting Cruise Decarbonization: Beyond regulations, market forces and consumer expectations are also shaping the industry’s sustainability journey. Travelers are becoming more eco-conscious, demanding greener options, while investors increasingly favor companies with strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments. The Role of Green Initiative in Cruise Industry Decarbonization While regulations set the minimum compliance standards, Green Initiative goes beyond by offering a comprehensive climate certification that helps cruise operators measure, reduce, and offset their emissions, enabling a structured transition toward carbon neutrality. 1. Green Initiative’s Climate Certification for Cruise Operators Green Initiative offers three science based climate certification options for cruise lines, providing a structured framework for sustainability and emissions management: Each certification follows a structured three-step process to guide cruise operators toward sustainability: By obtaining any of Green Initiative’s certifications, cruise lines demonstrate transparency, accountability, and leadership in climate action. This reinforces their position in an increasingly sustainability-driven market while contributing to a resilient and environmentally responsible future for the cruise industry. 2. Supporting Cruise Lines in Their Climate Journey While many cruise operators are exploring long-term net-zero strategies, Green Initiative focuses on delivering achievable and impactful carbon neutrality solutions today. This includes: By bridging the gap between current technological capabilities and long-term decarbonization goals, Green Initiative ensures that sustainability actions are tangible, measurable, and aligned with global climate objectives. 3. Collaborations with Ports and Destinations for Sustainable Cruise Tourism Cruise emissions extend beyond the ships themselves, affecting port cities, coastal communities, and marine ecosystems. To address this, Green Initiative is exploring potential collaborations to: Through these prospective collaborations, Green Initiative aims to transform cruise destinations into climate-smart regions, ensuring that sustainability efforts extend beyond the vessels themselves and into the ecosystems and communities they impact. The Way for a Sustainable Cruise Industry Green Initiative’s Carbon Neutral Certification provides the cruise industry with a structured and practical pathway to sustainability, ensuring compliance with global climate goals while maintaining economic viability. By leveraging certification, operational guidance, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, Green Initiative fosters holistic climate action that extends beyond ships to ports, tourism boards, and local communities. Looking ahead, advancing toward Climate Positive Certification offers cruise operators the opportunity to go beyond carbon neutrality, actively contributing to climate restoration and ecosystem regeneration. By prioritizing carbon reduction today and climate-positive initiatives for the future, Green Initiative helps steer the cruise industry toward a more responsible, resilient, and sustainable future. This article was written by Ella Baehringer from the Green Initiative team

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Best Practices for Achieving Climate and Nature Positive Outcomes in Fisheries and Aquaculture Geen Initiative

Best Practices for Achieving Climate and Nature Positive Outcomes in Fisheries and Aquaculture

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Introduction As global awareness of environmental sustainability intensifies, the fisheries and aquaculture sectors are under increasing pressure to adopt climate positive and nature positive practices. Contributing approximately 0.49% of global greenhouse gas emissions, these industries play a crucial role in climate change mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and food security. Unlike terrestrial agriculture, which emits between 400 and 660 million tons of CO₂ annually, aquaculture has a lower carbon footprint due to improved feed conversion rates and the absence of methane-producing land-use changes. Embracing climate certifications—such as climate positive, carbon neutral, and carbon measured—can further support sustainability efforts in these sectors. This article examines the key emission sources in fisheries and aquaculture and highlights practical strategies to reduce their environmental impact. Understanding Climate and Nature Positive Practices Key Emission Sources in Fisheries and Aquaculture 1. Wild Capture Fisheries The primary emissions in this sector stem from fuel consumption in fishing vessels. Additional contributors include: 2. Aquaculture Operations Emissions in aquaculture primarily arise from: Best Practices for Carbon Footprint Reduction A. Wild Capture Fisheries B. Aquaculture Operations The Path Forward: Economic and Environmental Synergy Many carbon-reduction strategies not only help the environment but also improve economic efficiency. For example: Conclusion The fisheries and aquaculture industries are at a turning point. By adopting technological innovations, sustainable management practices, and renewable energy solutions, they can significantly cut their carbon footprints while ensuring long-term food security. With continued investment and industry-wide collaboration, the seafood sector can play a pivotal role in the global fight against climate change. Want to Learn More? Contact Us! At Green Initiative, we help businesses and industries transition toward a climate and nature positive future. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, achieve climate certifications, or improve sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture, our team is here to assist you. Get in touch and let us know if you would like to receive an in-depht technical review on Best Practices for Carbon Footprint Reduction in Fisheries and Aquaculture Operations. This article was written by Matheus Mendes from the Green Initiative Team. Image credits by Marcos Vaena Further Reading on Fisheries Sustainability:

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Sustainability in Hospitality A Competitive Advantage, Not Just Compliance Green Initiative

Sustainability in Hospitality: A Competitive Advantage, Not Just Compliance

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Why Sustainability Matters for Hotels and Restaurants Sustainability in hospitality is no longer optional—it’s a strategic necessity for long-term success. As climate action gains momentum worldwide, hotels and restaurants that embrace sustainable practices are securing financial benefits, reducing operational costs, and strengthening brand loyalty. But sustainability isn’t just about meeting environmental goals—it’s about gaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry. From cutting expenses through energy efficiency to attracting eco-conscious travelers and securing preferential financing, sustainability is reshaping the hospitality landscape. Businesses that integrate climate-smart strategies will thrive, while those that ignore this shift risk higher costs, limited financing options, and declining market appeal. The message is clear: sustainability is no longer just about compliance—it’s the key to long-term profitability and success.. Key Benefits of Sustainability in Hospitality ✅ Cost Reduction – Energy efficiency and waste reduction lower operational expenses.✅ Access to Climate Financing – Hotels with strong sustainability practices can secure preferential loans and investment opportunities.✅ Brand Differentiation – Eco-conscious travelers actively seek sustainable hospitality options.✅ Regulatory Compliance & Future-Proofing – Meeting global climate pledges protects businesses from future regulatory risks. Sustainability as a Competitive Edge in Hospitality Hotels that delay climate-smart strategies risk rising costs, shrinking market appeal, and limited financing options. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s shaping the future of the hospitality industry. Hospitality Sustainability Success Stories 1. SENAC Restaurants, Brazil: A Carbon-Neutral Dining Model SENAC Restaurants in Brazil achieved Carbon Neutral Certification by overhauling their food sourcing strategy. By prioritizing local suppliers, they: ✔ Cut transportation costs✔ Improved menu sustainability✔ Strengthened brand reputation This demonstrates how sustainability and profitability go hand in hand. 2. Inkaterra: A Global Leader in Eco-Hospitality Inkaterra, a pioneer in ecotourism, has integrated climate action into its operations by managing 15,000 hectares of protected forest. Their Climate Certification has: ✔ Strengthened their international reputation✔ Secured climate finance through partnerships like the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)✔ Improved operational efficiency These case studies highlight that sustainability is not just about reducing emissions—it’s a business growth strategy. The Business-Driven Approach to Hospitality Sustainability Despite misconceptions that climate action is losing momentum, the truth is that sustainability is now a business-driven necessity. The rising costs of energy, food, and waste management make climate-positive initiatives essential for profitability. How to Integrate Sustainability into Your Hospitality Business To stay ahead in the industry, hospitality businesses should consider: 🔹 Carbon Certification for Hotels & Restaurants – Align with climate finance frameworks and secure better investment opportunities.🔹 Energy & Waste Management Strategies – Reduce operational costs while meeting sustainability goals.🔹 Sustainable Sourcing & Eco-Friendly Operations – Attract eco-conscious travelers and corporate clients. Take Action: Future-Proof Your Hospitality Business Hotels and restaurants can gain a competitive advantage by obtaining Green Initiative’s Climate Certificates for tourism, hospitality, and destinations. These certifications help businesses secure financing, improve sustainability performance, and increase market appeal. Download the Free Climate Action Guide for Hospitality Gain valuable insights on integrating climate mitigation strategies into your hotel or restaurant business. 📥 Download the Climate Action Guide Final Thoughts Sustainability is not just an ethical obligation—it’s a smart business strategy. Hotels and restaurants that embrace climate action will thrive, while those that hesitate may struggle with rising costs and diminishing market share. Is your hospitality business ready for the future? Start your sustainability journey today and position yourself as a leader in the evolving hospitality landscape. Get in touch.

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Financing the Green Future Principles for Tracking Climate Mitigation Investments Green Initiative

Financing the Green Future: Principles for Tracking Climate Mitigation Investments

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As most of the world intensifies efforts to combat climate change, the role of climate finance has become increasingly vital. The Paris Agreement has set an ambitious goal: to keep global temperature rise well below 2°C, with a strong commitment to limiting it to 1.5°C. Achieving this target requires a fundamental transformation of the global economy, shifting investments away from high-emission industries and toward nature-positive solutions, such as renewable energy, sustainable transport, and green infrastructure. However, ensuring that financial flows genuinely align with climate goals requires a transparent, standardized framework for tracking and reporting climate mitigation investments. The Common Principles for Climate Mitigation Finance Tracking, developed by multilateral development banks (MDBs) and the International Development Finance Club (IDFC), serve this purpose by establishing clear eligibility criteria for climate-positive investments while excluding those that undermine long-term decarbonization efforts. This article explores the key principles of climate mitigation finance tracking, the sectors benefiting from green investments, and the future of financial strategies aimed at accelerating climate action. The Role of Climate Mitigation Finance Climate mitigation finance is a crucial tool for supporting the transition to a net-zero economy. It ensures capital is directed toward investments that: 1. Reduce or Avoid Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a core pillar of climate mitigation finance, as it directly addresses the root cause of global warming. By shifting investments toward clean energy, low-emission transport, and energy-efficient infrastructure, we can significantly cut carbon emissions while driving economic growth and innovation. Key strategies include transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, electrifying transportation systems, and enhancing energy efficiency in buildings and industries. These measures not only reduce dependence on high-carbon energy but also create a foundation for a sustainable, net-zero future. 2. Enhance Carbon Sequestration While reducing emissions is crucial, it is equally important to remove existing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere to mitigate climate change effectively. Carbon sequestration plays a key role in this effort by capturing and storing CO₂ through natural and technological solutions. Investments in reforestation and afforestation restore forests that act as natural carbon sinks, while regenerative agriculture enhances soil health, increasing its capacity to store carbon. Additionally, carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies provide an industrial-scale solution by trapping CO₂ from power plants and factories before it enters the atmosphere. These approaches work together to offset emissions and contribute to a climate-positive economy. 3. Transition High-Emission Industries Heavy industries such as steel, cement, and chemicals are among the largest contributors to global carbon emissions. Decarbonizing these sectors is essential for achieving a net-zero economy, but doing so requires targeted investments in innovative, low-carbon technologies. One of the most promising solutions is green hydrogen, which serves as a clean alternative to fossil fuels in industrial processes. Additionally, circular economy initiatives—such as waste reduction, recycling, and material reuse—help lower emissions by minimizing resource consumption. The adoption of sustainable construction materials, such as carbon-negative cement and recycled steel, further reduces the environmental impact of the building sector. Without a robust system for tracking climate-positive investments, financial flows could be misallocated to projects that offer only short-term emission reductions while reinforcing long-term fossil fuel dependency. The Common Principles ensure that financial institutions prioritize truly sustainable climate investments. Key Principles for Climate Mitigation Finance Tracking The Common Principles categorize climate mitigation finance into three distinct groups, ensuring investments are aligned with the Paris Agreement and contribute to a nature-positive global economy. 1. Negative- or Very-Low-Emission Activities To achieve a net-zero future, investments must prioritize projects that produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions while actively contributing to deep decarbonization. These activities are fully aligned with global climate targets and represent the most effective pathways toward long-term sustainability. Key areas of investment include renewable energy, such as solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal, which replace fossil fuels and provide clean, sustainable electricity. Additionally, carbon sequestration projects—including reforestation, soil carbon restoration, and blue carbon initiatives (e.g., mangrove and seagrass restoration)—help remove CO₂ from the atmosphere. Further advancements in low-carbon industrial production are also essential. Technologies such as green hydrogen, carbon-negative cement, and bioplastics provide viable alternatives to traditional, high-emission materials, reducing the environmental impact of key industries. These projects form the foundation of a climate-positive economy and ensure that financial investments drive real, lasting change toward a sustainable world. These projects are fully aligned with net-zero targets and drive deep decarbonization. Examples include: 2. Transitional Activities While the ultimate goal is a fully decarbonized economy, some industries and systems require an intermediate phase to reduce emissions before achieving full sustainability. Transitional activities play a crucial role in this process by improving the efficiency of existing infrastructure while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. However, these projects must be carefully managed to avoid long-term carbon lock-in and ensure they serve as stepping stones toward net-zero solutions. Key transitional strategies include industrial energy efficiency upgrades, which can reduce emissions by 30–50% through advanced technologies such as waste heat recovery, automation, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. In the transport sector, hybrid vehicle adoption provides an interim solution, lowering emissions while paving the way for full electrification and hydrogen-powered mobility. Additionally, retrofitting buildings with energy-efficient solutions, such as heat pumps, green roofs, and smart grid integration, helps reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints. By ensuring that transitional activities remain aligned with long-term decarbonization goals, financial investments can maximize climate benefits while accelerating the global shift toward sustainable energy, transport, and industry. These projects reduce emissions in existing systems but still involve some reliance on fossil fuels. They must not create long-term carbon lock-in. Examples include: 3. Enabling Activities Achieving a net-zero economy requires not only direct emissions reductions but also a strong support system that enables the widespread adoption of climate-positive technologies and practices. Enabling activities play a crucial role in facilitating this transition by providing the financial, regulatory, and technological infrastructure needed to scale up green investments. Key enabling strategies include green bonds and sustainability-linked finance mechanisms, which provide dedicated funding for climate mitigation projects. These financial instruments

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Leading Climate Action in the Lobster Fishing Industry: A Success Story from Belize

Leading Climate Action in the Lobster Fishing Industry: A Success Story from Belize

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The National Fishermen Producers Cooperative Society (NFPCS) in Belize is demonstrating that sustainable seafood production is not just possible—it is essential. As the second-largest fishers’ cooperative in the country, NFPCS has taken a proactive approach to reducing its environmental footprint. In 2024, the cooperative earned the Carbon Measured Certification from Green Initiative, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to responsible fishing and climate action. By conducting a thorough carbon footprint assessment, NFPCS has identified key areas for improvement, leading to more sustainable fishing and processing practices. The cooperative’s efforts set a strong example for other seafood producers looking to minimize emissions while maintaining profitability. Understanding NFPCS’ Carbon Footprint A comprehensive emissions assessment highlighted the primary sources of NFPCS’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions: 1. Electricity Consumption for Processing and Refrigeration (48.8%) 2. Fossil Fuel Consumption by Fishing Vessels (38.2%) 3. Packaging Materials (3%) 4. Additional Emissions Sources NFPCS’ carbon footprint assessment also revealed emissions from other sources, including: Addressing these areas through efficiency upgrades and waste reduction programs will further strengthen NFPCS’ sustainability efforts. How NFPCS Compares to Global Seafood Industry Benchmarks NFPCS has successfully reduced its emissions to 2.95 kg CO2e per kg of final packaged lobster product. This is significantly lower than global industry benchmarks, where lobster fisheries typically emit between 6.92 kg CO2e to 13 kg CO2e per kg. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of NFPCS’ sustainability initiatives and demonstrates that strategic investment in energy efficiency, optimized fishing methods, and clean energy solutions can lead to substantial emissions reductions. Strategies for a More Sustainable Fishing Industry NFPCS’ approach serves as a model for other fisheries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. Below are key strategies that can be adopted across the seafood industry: 1. Investing in Energy-Efficient Fishing Technology 2. Optimizing Fishing Operations 3. Training and Awareness Programs 4. Transitioning to Renewable Energy NFPCS’ Commitment to a Sustainable Future The Carbon Measured Certification is only the beginning of NFPCS’ journey toward greater sustainability. The cooperative is committed to: Through these efforts, NFPCS is proving that climate action in the fishing industry is both achievable and beneficial—not only for the environment but also for the long-term viability of seafood production. Read the Full Success Case Study For a detailed breakdown of NFPCS’ carbon footprint assessment and sustainability strategies, read the full case study in PDF here. For more insights on climate action in the seafood industry and sustainable business practices, contact us Green Initiative.

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Green Initiative Spotlights: Tomorrow’s SFS-MED Webinar on Reducing Food Loss and Waste in Mediterranean Cities

Green Initiative Spotlights: Tomorrow’s SFS-MED Webinar on Reducing Food Loss and Waste in Mediterranean Cities

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The Mediterranean region, famous for its delicious food and vibrant cities, faces a big challenge: food loss and waste. To tackle this issue, the Sustainable Food Systems Mediterranean (SFS-MED) Initiative is hosting a webinar called “Coordinating Local and National Actions to Reduce Food Loss and Waste in Mediterranean Cities” on January 28, 2025. Why This Matters Over 70% of people in the Mediterranean live in cities, making urban areas major hubs for food use and waste. Here are some shocking facts: This creates serious problems for the environment, the economy, and society. Reducing food loss and waste is crucial for protecting the planet, improving food security, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. What the Webinar Will Cover This webinar will bring together local and national leaders to work on solutions for reducing food loss and waste. Key topics include: Cities Can Lead the Way Cities have a unique role to play in fighting food waste. By focusing on circular economy ideas, they can: A Global Opportunity While the webinar focuses on the Mediterranean, the insights and strategies shared have the potential to inspire action in other parts of the world. The challenges of food loss and waste are universal, and the solutions developed in this region can serve as a model for cities globally. By learning from these experiences, other regions can adapt similar approaches to fit their local contexts and needs. Don’t Miss Out This webinar is a chance for everyone—from policymakers to community leaders—to share ideas and build practical solutions for a sustainable Mediterranean. Event Details: Find out more about the event, including the agenda, on the official event page. To register right now click here. At Green Initiative, we believe collaboration is key. Let’s join forces to create a sustainable future for the Mediterranean and beyond.

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Bonito: A Carbon-Neutral Ecotourism Destination to Host the 2025 International Sustainability Forum

Bonito: A Carbon-Neutral Ecotourism Destination to Host the 2025 International Sustainability Forum

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In May 2025, Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil—a global leader in sustainable tourism—will host the International Sustainability Forum from May 29 to 31. Known for its pristine natural beauty and pioneering environmental initiatives, Bonito is the perfect venue for this pivotal event, which aims to shape discussions around energy transition and green financing ahead of the COP30 climate conference in Belém. Why Bonito? A Model of Regenerative Tourism Bonito is not just a popular tourist destination; it’s a carbon-neutral certified ecotourism hub. In 2022, the city made history by becoming the first tourism destination in the world to earn this certification. This milestone was achieved through a rigorous collaboration between the Fundação de Turismo de Mato Grosso do Sul (FUNDTUR) and Green Initiative, which assessed and mitigated the carbon footprint of its tourism sector. Key climate and nature positive strategies that contributed to this certification include: Additionally, Bonito is home to Climate Positive Ecotourism Businesses such as Grupo Rio da Prata Ecoturismo and Estância Mimosa, which actively work to create a net positive environmental impact. Grupo Rio da Prata offers eco-friendly snorkeling and diving experiences in its pristine rivers, while engaging in large-scale reforestation efforts and water conservation initiatives. Similarly, Estância Mimosa provides guided tours through stunning waterfalls and trails while implementing carbon sequestration through native tree planting and sustainable farming practices. These businesses exemplify Bonito’s dedication to ecotourism and serve as models for sustainability in the global tourism industry. These initiatives collectively reduce Bonito’s environmental footprint and contribute to its goal of becoming a global leader in climate-smart tourism. Mayor of Bonito, Josmail Rodrigues, highlighted the city’s global leadership in sustainability, stating: “Bonito is a global reference for sustainable tourism, and hosting an event of this magnitude reinforces our commitment to environmental preservation and responsible economic development. The International Sustainability Forum will be a unique opportunity to discuss innovative solutions and establish our city as a model of sustainability for Brazil and the world.” The Significance of the International Sustainability Forum The forum will bring together policymakers, environmentalists, scientists, and industry leaders to discuss: Bonito’s role as host is particularly symbolic. Its transformation into a carbon-neutral destination highlights the power of local initiatives to drive global change, setting an example for other regions aiming to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. Recognized Leadership in ESG Practices Bonito and the state of Mato Grosso do Sul have gained national and international recognition for their sustainability efforts. In December 2024, Mato Grosso do Sul was ranked among Brazil’s top three regions for ESG practices in sustainable tourism by Embratur. This accolade underscores the state’s forward-thinking approach to tourism development and environmental conservation. Specific achievements include: Bruno Wendling, President of FUNDTUR, stated, “Our goal is to position Bonito as a global model for sustainable and regenerative tourism by ensuring every visitor’s experience contributes positively to the environment. Hosting the International Sustainability Forum further solidifies our commitment to this mission.” Bonito: A Destination Worth Protecting Bonito’s unique ecosystems are its greatest treasure. Highlights include: Through carbon-neutral initiatives and sustainable tourism practices, Bonito is setting a precedent for destinations worldwide, showcasing that natural beauty and environmental responsibility can coexist. What to Expect at the Forum The event promises a wealth of opportunities, including: As the world prepares for the COP30 climate conference, Bonito stands out as a beacon of sustainable innovation and environmental leadership. Hosting the International Sustainability Forum in this Carbon-Neutral Certified city not only amplifies its commitment to protecting natural resources but also inspires other destinations to follow suit. Bonito’s story proves that tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand, paving the way for a greener future. By the Green Initiative Team. Suggested reading:

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Let’s Make 2025 the Year of Climate and Nature Positive Action

Let’s Make 2025 the Year of Climate and Nature Positive Action

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As we enter 2025, the urgency to address climate change and biodiversity loss has never been greater. But there’s hope and momentum—by planning and acting intentionally, we can create a positive impact for the planet. In 2024, Copernicus Climate Change Service indicates global temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time, marking a significant milestone in climate change. This unprecedented warming has led to more frequent and severe climate-related disasters, such as wildfires, floods, and heatwaves, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive climate action. The breach of this critical threshold highlights the importance of implementing sustainable practices and policies to mitigate further environmental degradation. At Green Initiative, we’re here to help individuals, communities, and businesses make 2025 a year of bold and meaningful climate and nature-positive progress. Here’s how you can start planning: 1. Set Clear Goals for Climate and Nature Positivity The journey to becoming climate positive goes beyond reducing emissions—it involves actively restoring the planet. This could mean switching to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, or supporting reforestation efforts. Businesses can also take an important step by getting certified as Climate Positive, Carbon Neutral, or Carbon Measured. Certification ensures transparency and accountability in your sustainability goals. If you’re ready to get started or need to prepare for recertification, learn more here. 2. Partner with Forest Friends for Ecosystem Restoration Reforestation is one of the most impactful ways to fight climate change and restore biodiversity. At Forest Friends, we make it easy for you to plant native trees in critical areas, and you can even gift the trees planted to friends and those you love. By supporting Forest Friends efforts, you’re not just offsetting carbon emissions—you’re revitalizing ecosystems and empowering local communities. Forest Friends also provides tools to calculate your carbon footprint and track the impact of your contributions. 3. Embrace Everyday Sustainability Small, consistent actions in your daily life can lead to big changes over time: 4. Get Certified or Prepare for Recertification For businesses and organizations, certifications are an essential way to demonstrate your commitment to sustainability. Climate-positive and carbon-neutral certifications not only help the planet but also resonate with customers and stakeholders who value transparency. If you’re new to the process or gearing up for recertification in 2025, this guide offers all the details you need to get started. If you are in the travel and tourism industry, read our Climate Action Guide for Tourism Businesses and Destinations and catch up on the best regenerative travel and tourism practices. 5. Advocate and Collaborate Spread the word about climate and nature-positive actions in your networks. Advocate for policies that support sustainability and partner with like-minded organizations to amplify your impact. Collaboration strengthens individual efforts and drives systemic change. Why 2025 is Crucial This year is a pivotal moment for global sustainability efforts. The choices we make now will shape our collective future. Whether you’re planting trees with Forest Friends, pursuing a climate certification, or reducing your carbon footprint, every action counts. Let’s make 2025 a year of bold, meaningful change. Together, we can create a future where both people and nature thrive. Ready to act? Contact us to explore our climate certifications and visit Forest Friends to support reforestation today.

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Olas Perú: The World's First Carbon Neutral Surf School

Olas Perú: The World’s First Carbon Neutral Surf School

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On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, the renowned surf school Olas Perú made history by becoming the first surf school in the world to receive Carbon Neutral Certification. This achievement highlights its commitment to sporting excellence and talent development and underscores its dedication to climate action.Green Initiative awarded the certification during a ceremony held at the Municipal Palace of Miraflores, a district internationally recognized as Surf City due to its significance as a tourist and sports destination. Recognition for Climate Action The ceremony brought together prominent representatives from the tourism and sports sectors, including the participation of representatives from the Municipality of Miraflores, the Australian Ambassador to Peru, Maree Ringland and Omar Afa, from Yutong. Joel Koechlin, President of the National Tourism Chamber of Peru (CANATUR), emphasized the importance of climate action, stating: “Today, all businesses have a responsibility to understand their carbon footprint and find solutions to reduce it through our daily activities, raising awareness of its importance and positive impact on the planet.” Similarly, Roberto Meza, General Manager of Olas Perú, highlighted the significance of this achievement for the surfing industry, stating: “The Carbon Neutral certification is a milestone that sets a precedent in our discipline and encourages other organizations in the sector to make changes in favor of the planet.” Surfing and Climate Change: A Local Challenge with Global Impact Climate change is increasingly affecting various industries, including surfing. This thrilling activity, which represents a way of life for many people, faces significant challenges due to environmental impacts and climatic variations. From rising sea levels to shifts in wave patterns, climate change is altering oceans in harmful ways, threatening the future of sport. In this context, Olas Perú, founded in 1992, has embraced climate commitment as an essential part of its identity. With its recent Carbon Neutral certification, the school demonstrates that sustainable practices and climate action can go hand in hand with promoting the sport. Measuring and Offsetting the Carbon Footprint Olas Perú measured and offset its carbon footprint for 2023 as part of a rigorous process adhering to international standards. This process involved calculating the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions generated directly and indirectly by the organization during that year. The sources of emissions from Olas Perú’s activities were identified to determine its carbon footprint. These included aspects such as the transportation of materials and people and the use of resources necessary for its operations. This analysis not only quantified the emissions but also identified the primary sources of responsibility, paving the way for progressively implementing mitigation measures and promoting more sustainable practices to reduce the organization’s carbon footprint. Advancing Toward Decarbonization The ceremony also marked a significant step toward decarbonization with Yutong’s delivery of an electric truck. The integration of this vehicle and the implementation of various mitigation measures will significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the coming years, reaffirming Olas Perú’s commitment to meeting its climate goals. Omar Afa, Commercial Manager of Yutong, highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating: “This certification is a historic milestone that symbolizes not only an accomplishment but also a commitment to the planet, serving as an example of leadership and vision for everyone.” A Sustainable Future for Surfing With this milestone, Olas Perú strengthens its leadership in promoting surfing and building a more sustainable future for the sport. The school positions itself as a model for other sports organizations, demonstrating that commitment to the environment is as vital as developing athletic skills. Written by Musye Lucen, from the Green Initiative team

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Brazil Adopts a Regulated Carbon Market A Milestone in Climate Action and Sustainability

Brazil Adopts a Regulated Carbon Market: A Milestone in Climate Action and Sustainability

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In a historic environmental policy move, Brazil enacted Law No. 15,042, dated December 11, 2024, establishing the Brazilian System for Trading Greenhouse Gas Emissions (SBCE). This ambitious initiative positions Brazil as a global leader in combating climate change and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. By fostering sustainable practices and promoting climate and nature-positive strategies, this law is set to revolutionize Brazil’s environmental and economic landscape. What Is the Brazilian System for Trading Emissions (SBCE)? The SBCE is a regulated carbon market where companies and industries trade emission allowances, known as Brazilian Emission Quotas (CBEs). Each quota authorizes the emission of one metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e). Companies emitting less than their quota can sell surplus allowances, while those exceeding their limit must purchase additional quotas. The system is complemented by Certificates of Verified Reduction or Removal of Emissions (CRVEs), generated by projects that reduce or capture GHG emissions. These include reforestation, clean energy projects, and environmental conservation. Businesses can trade CRVEs or use them to offset emissions, contributing to climate action and sustainability goals. Key Features of Law No. 15,042 This groundbreaking legislation lays out mechanisms to regulate emissions and incentivize businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Key features include: How the SBCE Works: Implementation and Timeline The SBCE will be implemented in phases to ensure a smooth transition: The government has a two-year period to finalize regulations, after which businesses will have additional time to comply with emission limits. Benefits of the SBCE: Climate and Nature-Positive Outcomes The regulated carbon market is a powerful tool for fostering sustainable development and generating significant climate and nature-positive impacts: Transforming Industries Through Sustainability Energy and Manufacturing Agriculture Regenerative Tourism The tourism sector can lead the way in adopting climate-positive strategies: Challenges and Opportunities While the SBCE offers immense potential, it presents challenges that require attention: Why the SBCE Matters for Brazil and the World Law No. 15,042 is not just about reducing emissions but redefining Brazil’s role in the global economy. By embedding climate and nature-positive principles into its economic framework, Brazil is committed to a sustainable future where economic growth complements environmental stewardship. The SBCE is a bold step toward a green economy, from regenerative tourism to carbon-neutral industries. It empowers businesses to innovate while addressing urgent climate challenges, ensuring Brazil remains a key player in global sustainability. FAQs About the SBCE What is the primary goal of the SBCE? The SBCE aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and foster sustainable practices through a regulated carbon market. Which sectors are regulated? Energy, transportation, and manufacturing are included, while primary agriculture is excluded, but they can participate voluntarily. What are the benefits of the SBCE for businesses? The SBCE incentivizes innovation, attracts green investments, and enhances international competitiveness. Take the Next Step Toward Sustainability Is your business ready to align with Brazil’s new carbon market? Partner with Green Initiative for expert advice and climate certification services. We provide tailored solutions to help your organization navigate the SBCE, reduce emissions, and achieve sustainability goals. Contact us to transform your climate action strategy and become a leader in Brazil’s sustainable future. Let’s work together for a climate-positive tomorrow!

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