SCM0006: Methodology for the Conservation of Areas of Biodiversity Importance

Sectoral Scope: Scope 14 - Afforestation and reforestation

Status: Live since 20/12/2022

Methodology Developer: Social Carbon Foundation

Modules / Key Sources:

  • SCT0001 - Tool for the Demonstration and Assessment of Additionality in SOCIALCARBON Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU) Project Activities v1.0

  • CDM Tool for the Estimation of carbon stocks and change in carbon stocks of trees and shrubs in A/R CDM project activities

  • Feasibility Assessment Tool

  • VVB Checklist

Useful Links:

  • Digital Observatory for Protected Areas (DOPA) Explorer (Link)

  • Global Forest Watch (Link)

  • WWF 200 Ecoregions (Link)

Description.

This methodology is designed to offer a new financing mechanism for conservation efforts worldwide. The methodology quantified net GHG emission removals (NERs) from project activities that conserve terrestrial habitats of significant biodiversity and/or ecosystem value. The methodology quantifies net removals of CO2 only.

Historically, the carbon markets have focused on degraded habitats that require climate finance to protect and restore them. Areas that require conservation but exhibit limited degradation or deforestation have been largely excluded from eligibility within the market. As a result, the conservation of these areas has typically been financed through donations or grants. This methodology has been designed to offer a new financing mechanism that quantifies real, conservative GHG removals, whilst embedding biodiversity monitoring and local community engagement.

Version History.

  • Release date: 20th December 2022

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  • Release date: 17th November 2023

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    Notes:

    • Inclusion of Deadwood as a eligible carbon pool

    • Requirement to conduct ground-truthing when default values are used

    • Procedures added to manage default value uncertainty

    • Clarity provided on measuring deforestation and degradation rates

    • Raising of deforestation/degradation threshold to 0.25%

    Public Comments Received