Test bed for carbon credits from forest management
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | ÖVERTORNEÅ KOMMUN - Tillväxtenheten |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 3 200 000 |
| Project duration | December 2013 - September 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The purpose was to commercialize trade in carbon credits from growth-enhancing forest management measures in boreal forest. In the short term, the goal was to use the carbon credits for voluntary climate compensation. The long-term goal was that the carbon credits could be included in the industry´s climate commitments. The aim was to establish a test bed for verified climate benefit from forestry. Knowledge and experience have been developed, but with current credit prices and regulations it is not possible to commercially create certified forestry carbon credits.
Expected results and effects
A methodology for creating forestry carbon credits has been reviewed against the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). However, the regulations do not suit Swedish forestry. Due to resource-intensive verification a high credit price is required to carry out climate projects commercially. The costs can be lowered, without the net GHG removals being overestimated, through large-scale projects and less extensive field measurements. These experiences should be considered when forestry credits are included in any trade. A national system for forestry carbon credit should thus be created.
Planned approach and implementation
The project was run by Övertorneå municipality, Sveaskog, SveMin, SLU and LRF Norrbotten with funding from Vinnova and the County Administrative Board and the County Council in Norrbotten. The main activity was to develop a VCS methodology for forestry carbon credits. The economic conditions for trade in forestry credits on the voluntary market were analyzed. More efficient methods and scenarios for forestry credits were identified. A final report, incl. environmental impacts of growth enhancement measures, has been compiled. Lobbying was conducted to create acceptance.