Carbon Projects and Nature-Based Solutions
written by Naiara Wuisan
On Wednesday, October 22nd, Greenkeepers Indonesia hosted an insightful talkshow with the founder of Rimba Raya, the largest REDD+ project in the world, Ms. Sylviana Andhella.
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The event welcomed high school students in Jakarta, and was hosted at Jakarta Intercultural School. In the discussion, one of our leaders, Stacy Sada, discussed the importance of nature-based solutions for reducing carbon emissions, such as the carbon projects in Kalimantan, and peatland restoration.
Key Discussions
A carbon project is an initiative designed to protect forests and natural environments in order to capture and store carbon, thereby helping to mitigate climate change. These projects generate carbon credits, which represent measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Companies and corporations can purchase these credits to offset their carbon footprints, either voluntarily or to meet regulatory requirements. Increasingly, governments enforce strict regulations to ensure the transparency and environmental integrity of such projects.
Ms. Sylvania is focused on developing and managing these carbon projects, with a strong emphasis on sustainable and measurable impact. Working closely with governmental agencies, Ms. Sylvania leads by example in promoting best practices. Central to its mission is the empowerment and inclusion of local communities: about 60% of its project efforts go towards improving the quality of life for those living near protected forests, such as providing access to water, healthcare, and electricity, and involving them in conservation activities. Profits from carbon trading are reinvested into these communities, supporting broader sustainability and development goals, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Highlights and Quotes
Regulation and transparency in carbon markets are crucial to ensure that sustainability efforts have real impact. This is why her companies undergo audits and frequent site visits
True sustainability is multidisciplinary: everyone, from designers to doctors to lawyers, can play a role in shaping a greener future. Ms. Sylviana spoke to students regarding the possibility of working in the environmental space even through majoring in an unrelated field in university.
"Community is at the center of sustainability. Lasting impact starts with empowering local people."
Imagine when you're older and your child asks what you did for the planet; at least you can say you've done something meaningful.
Ambitious young people in Indonesia can drive real change for sustainability.”