Climate Positive Archives - Page 10 of 10 - Green Initiative - For a Climate and Nature Positive Planet

The Impact of ASCART: How Sustainable Agriculture Can Support Climate Goals in the Amazon

ASCART, a Conservation Association of Amazon Chestnut Producers, Safeguarding 39,765 Hectares of Biodiverse Forest in Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve ASCART, the “Association of Amazon Chestnut Producers at the Tambopata National Reserve (TNR) – Peru” has over 12 members, who are responsible for the conservation and management of 39,765 hectares of tropical forest. The TNR in southeastern Peru is an incredibly biodiverse area that is home to over 10,000 species of plants, 600 species of birds, and 200 species of mammals. It plays a crucial role in protecting the Amazon rainforest and maintaining the global climate. The reserve is also significant culturally, as it is home to indigenous communities who have lived in harmony with the rainforest for centuries. The Amazon Rainforest is now Emitting More CO2 than it Absorbs, Says Recent Study – Urgent Action Needed to Combat Climate Change and Deforestation However, the Amazon rainforest is facing significant threats from climate change, deforestation, and other environmental pressures. According to a recent study, the Amazon rainforest is now emitting more carbon dioxide than it is absorbing due to increased deforestation and forest degradation (Gatti et al., 2021). This is a concerning trend that underscores the urgent need for action to address the underlying causes of climate change and preserve the rainforest’s ecosystem. Amazon Nut Production: A Key Driver of Sustainable Forest Management and Livelihoods in the Region, but with Challenges to Sustainability and Pollinator Dependence The production of Amazon chestnuts is significant in the region as it provides income and employment opportunities for local communities, and helps to promote sustainable forest management practices. However, Amazon chestnut harvesting is a complex and labor-intensive process, and it requires careful management to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry and the surrounding ecosystem. In addition, the Amazon chestnut tree is dependent on a specific group of pollinators, making it particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental pressures. For ASCART, the production of Amazon chestnut in Madre de Dios involves a complex supply chain, with different actors involved in harvesting, processing, and trading the nuts. The chestnuts are harvested from the wild in a sustainable manner by indigenous communities and small-scale farmers, who are associates of ASCART. The chestnuts are then transported to processing plants, where they are shelled, sorted, and packaged for export. ASCART’s Complex Supply Chain for Sustainable Amazon Chestnut Production: From Harvesting by Indigenous Communities to Export ASCART has made a significant commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices in the Amazon chestnut industry. The efforts of ASCART towards climate neutrality, which started in 2020, earned them a competitive fund “ProCompite“ from the regional government of Tambopata valued at $45,000 thousand dollars. In 2021, ASCART introduced climate action as a key aspect of its business model, with the technical assistance of Green Initiative. As part of this process, the climate positive effect of the conservation efforts of ASCART were measured, making it visible that ASCART’s best practices were supporting the carbon capture of 29 tons of CO2 per year. ASCART Leads the Way in Climate-Smart Agriculture: Using Biodiesel and Regenerative Practices to Decarbonize its Value Chain and Support Global Climate Goals The climate smart agricultural practices applied by ASCART make this association a live example of how climate smart agriculture can support the global fight for the decarbonization of the economy. ASCART’s climate action commitment has taken them to the production of biofuels, from the chestnuts shell remainders, and the development of other regenerative practices that are decarbonizing its value chain CO2 emissions. Through the Climate Pledge signed in 2022, ASCART is now formally committed to a decarbonization agenda, with clear goals, making this association a consistent supporter of the SDGs goal 13 and the Paris Climate Agreement strategic vision. ASCART’s Sustainable Practices and Climate Neutrality Commitment – A Model for Organizations to Preserve the Amazon and Build a Sustainable Future ASCART’s commitment to decarbonization and sustainable practices is a model for other organizations to follow. By promoting sustainable forest management practices, supporting local communities, and working towards climate neutrality, ASCART is playing a critical role in preserving the biodiversity of the TNR and ensuring the long-term viability of the Amazon chestnut industry. With their ongoing efforts towards climate neutrality and decarbonization, ASCART is helping to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the Amazon. This article was prepared by Marc Tristant, from The Green Initiative Team.

The Impact of ASCART: How Sustainable Agriculture Can Support Climate Goals in the Amazon Read More »

Carbon emission sanctions and rewards: understanding the future of climate policies

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

How to take advantage of the emerging carbon emission policies What are carbon sanctions/rewards As the world becomes increasingly aware of the negative impact of carbon emissions on the environment, governments and corporations alike are facing mounting pressure to take action to reduce their carbon footprints. One way this has begun to be addressed is through the implementation of sanctions and rewards for carbon emissions. Sanctions for carbon emissions involve penalties for companies or countries that exceed a certain threshold of carbon emissions. These penalties could take the form of fines or restrictions on activities, and would serve as a disincentive for businesses and nations to continue emitting high levels of carbon. On the other hand, bonuses for carbon emissions would offer rewards for companies or nations that make significant strides in reducing their carbon emissions. Thus, reducing the financial burden of investing in novel, green technologies that often require an elevated initial investment. The importance of carbon sanction/rewards in the upcoming years Several governments have already implemented such policies. For example, the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) imposes a cap on carbon emissions from power plants, factories, and other industrial sectors. Companies are required to purchase permits to emit carbon, and those that exceed their allotted emissions must purchase additional permits or face fines. Conversely, companies that emit less than their allotted amount can sell their excess permits for a profit. Similarly, China’s carbon trading system, which began operating in 2017, covers the energy and industrial sectors and is designed to help the country meet its goal of peaking carbon emissions by 2030. Companies that reduce their emissions below their allotted cap can sell excess permits to those that exceed their limits, creating a financial incentive for companies to reduce their carbon footprints. In addition to these policies, governments are also offering rewards for companies and nations that make significant progress in reducing their carbon emissions. For example, Sweden offers rebates on the purchase of electric cars, while Norway has set a goal of having all new cars sold be electric by 2025. In the United States, the state of New York offers incentives for the installation of solar panels, while California offers rebates for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. In essence, the implementation of sanctions and rewards for carbon emissions is one potential solution that could help to incentivize the changes necessary to reach a climate positive economy. Governments from around the globe have only just begun to implement climate action into their policies and given the alarming state of the warming climate, they are not likely to stop anytime soon. How can you take advantage of the new sanctions/rewards on carbon emissions As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, it is becoming increasingly clear that we need to take decisive action to reduce our carbon emissions. At Green Initiative, we offer a range of services that can help your company take advantage of carbon emission rewards and avoid current and future carbon emission sanctions. Whether you need help identifying the sources of your emissions, developing a carbon reduction strategy, or implementing energy-efficient solutions, we are here to help you and your company get a head start on climate action. Reach out to contact@greeninitiative.eco and become a part of our climate champions!

Carbon emission sanctions and rewards: understanding the future of climate policies Read More »

From Commitment to Action: BioAmayu Becomes the World’s First Certified Climate-Positive Fruit Juice

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

New Business Models Emerge to Combat Deforestation in Peru as AJE Group Introduces Eco-Friendly BioAmayu Fruit Juice Peru lost over 2,000 hectares of forest in 2020, the largest amount in two decades, and deforestation rates have worsened over time. In this context, private-sector-led initiatives are striving to create new business models that have a positive impact on climate and biodiversity, aligning environmental protection with economic competitiveness. As part of this effort, AJE Group has developed an Amazon-based fruit juice, BioAmayu, that aims to provide a uniquely eco-friendly consumer experience. Reflecting Increased Corporate Focus on Environmentalism BioAmayu was launched in 2018, before the COVID-19 pandemic offered a stark reminder of the need to reconcile mankind’s relationship with the natural world. Moreover, the protection of forests and restoration of degraded ecosystems is vital to mitigate global warming and safeguard the planet’s health. In recent years, AJE Group and other firms have redoubled their efforts to integrate environmentalism into their corporate culture and business models. In April 2022, AJE Group began the process of certifying BioAmayu as the world’s first climate-positive fruit juice. A Model for Sustainability and Community Empowerment in the Amazon Rainforest BioAmayu’s production methods support the conservation and sustainable use of 112,000 hectares of forest in the Peruvian Amazon, which sequester an estimated 400,000 tons of atmospheric C02. Fruit harvesting is conducted sustainably by Amazonian communities, which sell their produce directly to AJE Group, creating strong financial incentives to protect fruit trees, respect the cycles of nature, and manage forest resources responsibly. As a result, BioAmayu’s production contributes to healthier ecosystems with a more robust capacity to provide ecosystem services, including carbon capture. To date, more than 700,000 kilos of fruit have been purchased from Amazonian communities, benefitting more than 200 families in 24 Amazonian communities in Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, Manu National Park, National Reserve Pucacuro, and the Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve. As a member of the United Nations “Race to Zero” initiative since December 2021, AJE Group implements its corporate commitment to climate action consistently and transparently. Jorge López-Dóriga, Global Director of Communications and Sustainability for AJE Group, has emphasized the firm’s commitment to driving transformative change in the beverage industry, stating – AJE Group Achieves Industry Leadership in Environmental Sustainability BioAmayu received its climate-positive certification on 7th December 2022, the certificate was provided by Green Initiative, marking a key milestone in AJE Group’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and position itself as an industry leader in environmental sustainability. Green Initiative Recognizes AJE Group as Global Champion for Climate Action and Biodiversity Protection, Encourages Acceleration of Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 At Green Initiative, we believe that AJE Group can become a global champion for climate action and the protection of biodiversity by continuing to integrating these values into its business model, as well as influencing its global value chains, in an attempt to accelerate their transition to net-zero emissions by 2050.

From Commitment to Action: BioAmayu Becomes the World’s First Certified Climate-Positive Fruit Juice Read More »

Global Risks Report 2023: Navigating the Converging Crises of the Decade Ahead

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

The past years of this decade have marked a significant period of disruption in human history. The return to a “new normal” post-COVID-19 pandemic was short-lived as the outbreak of war in Ukraine brought about fresh crises in food and energy, reviving problems that had been previously addressed. As 2023 begins, the world faces risks that are both unprecedented and familiar. Familiar risks such as inflation, cost-of-living issues, trade wars, and nuclear warfare have resurfaced, while new developments such as unsustainable debt, low global investment, and the pressure of climate change are amplifying these risks. These risks are converging to shape a unique, uncertain, and turbulent decade ahead. The Global Risks Report 2023 presents the findings of the latest Global Risks Perception Survey. The report examines global risks using three time frames: current crises, short-term risks, and long-term risks. It also explores the potential for these risks to converge into a “polycrisis” centered around natural resource shortages by 2030 and assesses preparedness for these risks and potential solutions for a more resilient future. Click here to download the Global Risks Report 2023. ENGAGE YOUR BUSINESS INTO A NEW LEVEL Learn how to engage your Business into a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness by becoming Climate Positive, Climate Neutral and Climate Measured certified here.

Global Risks Report 2023: Navigating the Converging Crises of the Decade Ahead Read More »

A Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

As the world continues to recover from the unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding a sustainable tourism sector remains a shared responsibility for tourism organizations worldwide. Amid mounting evidence of severe climate change, the window of opportunity for swiftly reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is rapidly narrowing. In November 2021 The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), in collaboration with the Travel Foundation, launched the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism at the climate-change conference COP26. The declaration calls on all tourism stakeholders to publicly demonstrate a joint commitment towards GHG reduction and climate resilience. In the wake of the Glasgow Declaration, the tourism industry is striving to embrace the challenges posedby climate change. Reaching a broad consensus on how to address climate change would be of utmost importance, impacting tourism industry developments and performance in the years to come. Since 2014 Green Initiative has been working alongside tourism businesses and destinations worldwide, introducing best climate action practices leading to efficient processes, access to climate financing, cost reductions, compliance with ESG standards, and international climate leadership. As part of our continuous support to accelerate the decarbonization of global tourism, a Climate Action Guide for Tourism Businesses and Destinations was prepared by Green Initiative and technically reviewed by the staff of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), United Nations Climate Change (UNFCCC) and United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Forthcoming at COP 27th At Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, the guide provides a practical roadmap to define baseline emissions, monitor carbon footprint changes, set emissions targets, evaluate progress, and publicize climate commitments and successes. At Green Initiative, we believe that unsustainable business-as-usual models will lose competitiveness and disappear. It’s time to reinforce collaborative processes and work together, “Building Tourism Back Better”. Please click here to download the Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations.

A Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations Read More »

The Green Logistics Revolution

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

Logistics companies achieve Carbon Neutral certification and take the lead in climate action transport services sector. The companies DELFIN GROUP, an international cargo agent; and DELFIN LOGISTICS, the transportation arm of the DELFIN group, were granted the Carbon Neutral certification, issued by the GREEN INITIATIVE, complying with global standards validated by the United Nations. The companies, part of the CIMC CHINA holding company, achieved this certification by successfully completing the process of measuring and offsetting their carbon footprint, with high standards of transparency. These companies are leading the way in the logistics sector, in terms of responsibility and climate action; assuming specific commitments within its Action Plans for 2023-2025, specifically referring to 1) the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in its operations, and 2) innovation in climate-smart services. “We decided to incorporate climate action into our business model, because we are convinced that international trade can be part of the solution and not part of the problem of global warming. We want to lead this great ‘green logistics revolution’ in Peru, developing the necessary capacities that allow us to be the first option in carbon neutral logistics services”. Felipe Lopez, general manager of DELFIN LOGISTICS. For his part, Herbert Saco-Vertiz, commercial manager of DELFIN GROUP, added that “The climate agenda is a priority in all economic segments, including international trade. We are going to support our clients to reduce their carbon emissions and generate a positive impact on the climate, through climate-smart logistics services. The “green logistics revolution” is a call for innovation and Peru, as a leading exporting country in many sectors, must anticipate it in order not to lose competitiveness. At Delfin Group, we will be helping exporters meet their climate goals.” Herbert Saco-Vertiz, commercial manager of DELFIN GROUP Both executives agreed that their great task is to assume leadership and internalize climate action within the company and among their stakeholders, so that the positive impact of their climate actions generate value for their clients, who will also benefit from climate smart logistical services. Also, both executives have something in common when it comes to relationship building with suppliers: they consider them to be a fundamental part of their carbon footprint mitigation strategy, in order to progressively reduce GHG emissions from their operations. To achieve Carbon Neutral certification, the companies of the DELFIN group engaged into detailed and transparent measurement of its corporate carbon footprint and mitigation action, there results were reviewed and are available at Green Initiative – Impact webpage. Engage your business into a New Level Learn how to engage your Business into a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness by becoming Climate Positive, Climate Neutral and Climate Measured certified here.

The Green Logistics Revolution Read More »

Brazil is on its way to Certifying the First Carbon-Neutral Ecotourism Destination Worldwide

1 Comment / Green Initiative

Mainstreaming climate Action Bonito is mainstreaming carbon action to become the first carbon-neutral certified tourism destination. Brazil’s ecotourism is dominated by landscapes with astonishing biodiversity hotspots and vibrant ecosystems that provide food and shelter for native species. One of Brazil’s ecotourism “jewels” is Bonito, a small destination in Mato Grosso do Sul, which happens to be on top of the second largest fresh water on earth – The Guarani Aquifer. sustainable tourism As the world continues to recover from the unprecedented shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding a more sustainable tourism sector remains a shared responsibility of tourism businesses and destinations worldwide. At the COP26 climate change conference held in November 2021, the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), and their partners issued the Glasgow Declaration on Tourism and Climate. In this context, since August 2022, the Tourism Authority of Mato Grosso do Sul (FUNDTUR) has started a relevant effort to certify Bonito as the first Carbon Neutral ecotourism destination worldwide. According to Bruno Wendling, President of FUNDTUR: “our goal is to generate new capabilities to proactively and strategically execute GHG management, which will lead to climate-smart tourism products and services and the strategic positioning of Bonito as an international ecotourism destination”. Climate Action In practice, this means that Bonito will start the implementation: (i) concrete mitigation actions to avoid and reduce GHG emissions through investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the circular economy. (ii) work on incentives to attract and promote private investment that seeks a positive impact on climate and biodiversity. Bonito’s climate certification cycle is led by Green Initiative, which was also responsible for the carbon-neutral certification of Machu Picchu. In addition to supporting Bonito’s carbon footprint analysis, Green Initiative is evaluating the carbon sinking capacity of the local forest within the specific scope of tourist attractions. With the development of the ability to measure and monitor Bonito’s climate performance, it will be possible to set emission targets, assess progress and, through this, attract investments and climate finance that allow us to boost the international competitiveness of the Bonito destination. Learn how to engage your Business in a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness. Become Climate Positive, Climate Neutral, and Climate Measured Certified here.

Brazil is on its way to Certifying the First Carbon-Neutral Ecotourism Destination Worldwide Read More »

SENAC – Driving Climate Action in Brazil Tourism and Trade Sector

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

About SENAC The National Commercial Training Service (SENAC) is the leading professional education agent focused on Brazil’s Trade of Goods, Services, and Tourism. It is present in more than 1,800 municipalities, from North to South of Brazil, where it maintains the state-of-the-art infrastructure of more than 600 school units, pedagogical companies, and mobile units. To support the tourism sector in the State of Bahia, in its alignment with the main trends and climate regulations at a national and international level, SENAC has been working since August 2022 to apply good climate management practices for its School Restaurant in Bahia. The Climate Action Project The goal of this first climate action project is to introduce the management of carbon emissions in the SENAC school restaurants, seeking to: Comply with the climate guidelines promoted by the World Tourism Organization through the Glasgow Declaration. Comply with UN Climate Change GHG emissions management protocols. Achieve the global Carbon Neutral certification as recognition to be offered by the Green Initiative. The success of this effort could mean the development of new internal capacities and, consequently, a unique reference for the tourism and commerce sector of the State of Bahia and the country in terms of climate action. SENAC and Green Initiative Green Initiative is supporting SENAC by bringing essential carbon mitigation practices to the center of its business model that will contribute to improvements in the efficiency of operations, as well as raising the awareness of students and thousands of customers who use the services of the Restaurante-Escola. Learn how to engage your business in a New Level of Leadership and Competitiveness. Become Climate Positive, Climate Neutral, and Climate Measured certified. Lastly, click here to contact us to find out more about taking your organization to the next level in Climate Action.

SENAC – Driving Climate Action in Brazil Tourism and Trade Sector Read More »