Trees for Global Benefit

Offers carbon offsetting scheme that links farmers to the voluntary carbon market.
2013 SEED Low Carbon Award; IKI BMU
Biodiversity
Kampala
Uganda

Trees for Global Benefit reduces unsustainable exploitation of the forest, while diversifying and increasing incomes for rural farmers. Through tree-planting, the enterprise generates Voluntary Emission Reductions (VERs) certificates, which are sold using the Plan Vivo System. Tree-planting includes mixed woodlots and fruit orchards, which provide high revenues. All activities are technically specified, making it possible to calculate the carbon credits expected from each farm. The Plan Vivo Foundation can then issue certificates in advance through the environmental market registry.

Eco-Inclusive Impacts
Trees for Global Benefit reduces unsustainable exploitation of the forest, while diversifying and increasing incomes for rural farmers.
  • Increasing the local and international visibility of communities to decision-makers and governments.
  • Strengthening recognition of communities rights and promoting gender equity.
  • Creating new job opportunities in rural areas.
  • Compensating for CO2 emissions and mitigating climate change by planting trees.
  • Providing training on sustainable land and resource management.
  • Reducing the pressure on natural resources in protected areas while contributing to the conservation of biodiversity.
  • Generating and diversifying household incomes by implementing various production strategies to reduce vulnerability to seasonal variation.
  • Contributing to the development of agriculture and forestry in the region.
  • Linking small-scale farmers to the voluntary carbon market.

Partners

Trees for Global Benefit is a cooperative carbon offsetting scheme linking small scale landholder farmers in Uganda to the voluntary carbon market, combining carbon sequestration with rural livelihood improvements through small-scale, farmer-led, agro-/forestry projects while reducing pressure on natural resources in national parks and forest reserves.

Plan Vivo Foundation manages the system through which carbon emissions are verified and VERs certificates issued.

Environmental Conservation Trust of Uganda (ECOTRUST) coordinates the generating of VERs certificates, trains participants and manages carbon assets.

Tree Talk – Straight Talk Foundation promotes the enterprise and provides extension services, including pest control and such like.

Bitereko Women’s Group mobilises farming households to participate in the enterprise.