A carbon credit certifier announced a partnership with two international institutions to develop methodologies for blue carbon and blue economy on Thursday, while signalling a long-term aim to broaden its work beyond carbon.
Colombia-based Cercarbono declared its cooperation agreement with Malaysia-based Kitaran Tabah and Colombian research institution CEMarin to establish methodologies for blue carbon projects as well as examine best practices in carbon offsets, technology, and environmental assets, according to announcement.
The partners aim to develop projects focused on blue carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marsh, and seagrass, which cover approximately 50 million hectares and exhibit carbon burial rates up to 55 times faster than those of tropical rainforests.
“The blue mangrove is not only the most efficient natural carbon offset, but also the most complex,” said Andres Fernando Osorio Arias, director of CEMarin.
“Our collaboration will ensure that blue carbon and blue economy projects and their applied methodology respect the science and its implications for the planet in a way that is worthy and expected by the global community.”
Norita Ja’afar, founder and partner of Kitaran Tabah, explained that global buyers of carbon credits have demonstrated increasing interest in the potential of mangroves and seagrasses to become valuable carbon offset assets, particularly in the equatorial region.
She also highlighted the significance of the new methodology, stating that it will provide environmental advantages as well as ensure long-term economic benefits for local communities and stakeholders.
Following the announcement, Cercarbono also revealed a strategic planning initiative that aims to enhance its carbon standard, with the planning period spanning from 2024 to 2028.
The initiative aims to advance its voluntary carbon cerification, enhance digitalisation within the certification system, and establish standards for circular economy and biodiversity.