If a tropical forest is still standing, does that mean it is always going to stay that way?

That assumption sits behind an important debate over additionality in carbon markets — and it risks overlooking the sustained effort required to keep some of the world’s most intact forests standing.

In a new op-ed for Carbon Pulse, ART Managing Director Christina Magerkurth argues that High Forest, Low Deforestation (HFLD) jurisdictions should not be penalized for their success.

Deforestation pressure is not static. Commodity markets, mining, infrastructure and agricultural expansion can quickly push into forests that were previously considered secure. In many HFLD jurisdictions, low deforestation rates reflect years of active stewardship and policy choices, including the work of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

High-integrity carbon finance can help sustain those efforts before forest loss occurs — rather than waiting until deforestation has accelerated.

Christina also explains how TREES applies a conservative, science-based approach to crediting HFLD jurisdictions, including strengthened requirements under TREES 3.0.

Read the full op-ed: https://lnkd.in/eeHApm8s