Brazil is globally responsible for the largest loss of tropical rainforest, accounting for 30 percent of all deforestation. Between 2010 and 2019, the Amazon region lost around 15 percent of its above-ground carbon stock. This is mainly due to deforestation and forest degradation, which lead to large amounts of CO2 emissions. As a result, the rainforest loses its vital role as a natural carbon sink and a unique ecosystem full of life is put at risk. The project helps prevent this by focusing on areas where forest clearing for agriculture, especially cattle ranching, is legally permitted. By selling certified carbon credits, the project offers an attractive alternative to deforestation. This way, valuable forests are preserved and local communities receive support for more sustainable land use and improved living conditions.
The project works with private landowners in the Amazon to prevent planned deforestation. In just the first ten years, it will protect 17,972 hectares of threatened tropical rainforest. By joining the initiative, landowners give up their legal right to clear forest. Instead, they choose long-term forest conservation and CO2 sequestration. This not only preserves valuable forests, but also protects vulnerable ecosystems and endangered species. In addition, the project focuses on improving the living conditions of local communities, some of whom live in complete isolation with limited access to basic services. Thanks to the project, they receive support in areas such as infrastructure, income, and well-being, allowing climate action and social progress to go hand in hand.
ORCA collaborates with this project by investing in high-quality carbon credits. This climate solution delivers measurable and verifiable CO2 reductions, which are rigorously monitored and certified under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). The project has also been awarded CCB Gold status, recognizing its exceptional contribution to biodiversity conservation. In addition, it has received an 'A' rating from two leading carbon credit evaluators: MSCI and BeZero – a confirmation of the project's credibility and high integrity.
