Projects co-benefits

Carbon projects play a crucial role in the global fight against climate change, either by reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, or by capturing carbon from the atmosphere. However, their impact goes far beyond climate change. By generating additional positive socio-environmental impacts, known as co-benefits, these projects make a significant contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These additional impacts, since they come on top of GHG reduction or sequestration, include positive impacts on the environment, local communities and local economic development.

Carbon projects certified by international standards, the most robust of which are recognized under the ICROA (International Carbon Reduction and Offset Alliance) Code of Good Practice, must meet several quality criteria:

• Additionality
• Measurability
• Sustainability
• Verifiability (audit by independent third parties),
• Uniqueness
• Generation of co-benefits.

Co-benefits can take many forms, from job creation and biodiversity protection to improved health and education infrastructures, and are closely linked to the SDGs.

The SDGs, defined and adopted by the United Nations in 2015, constitute a universal roadmap for promoting balanced, equitable and sustainable development on a global scale. Comprising 17 interconnected goals, the SDGs cover major issues such as reducing inequalities, combating climate change and ensuring access to essential resources. They set specific targets to be achieved by 2030, and provide a framework for coordinating the efforts of governments, businesses, NGOs and citizens. Their global and inclusive nature makes it possible to respond to complex and interdependent challenges, while proposing concrete, integrated solutions to carbon projects.

In this context, the SDGs offer a relevant framework for maximizing positive impacts beyond the reduction and/or avoidance of carbon emissions. Each co-benefit targeted by a carbon project, whether in terms of improving living conditions, public health or preserving ecosystems, can contribute to achieving one or more of the SDGs. This contribution must be supported by tangible, measurable evidence, such as impact indicators or validated scientific studies.

The Sindh project is an initiative focusing on the restoration and conservation of mangroves in the Indus delta region of Sindh, Pakistan. Deforestation in the Indus delta has led to a significant reduction in mangrove cover, from 600,000 hectares in the 1980s to around 263,000 hectares in 1990. This deforestation is mainly due to the intensive exploitation of mangroves for firewood, fodder and grazing by local communities and their livestock. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the reduction in freshwater and sediment inputs caused by the construction of upstream dams and irrigation projects. This combination of human activity and dwindling natural resources has led to significant degradation of the mangrove ecosystem.

This region is essential for climate change adaptation thanks to its unique arid-climate mangroves, which act as natural barriers against coastal erosion, storms and sea-level rise. In addition, these ecosystems support local biodiversity and provide vital livelihoods for communities, making their restoration crucial to environmental and social resilience. This project covers 350,000 hectares and focuses on the restoration and protection of mangroves, which are essential for preserving biodiversity and protecting coasts from storms.

In addition to carbon sequestration, restored mangrove forests play a vital role in preserving and restoring habitats for many rare and endangered species. These include the Indian pangolin, the Indus river dolphin, and the fishing cat, as well as several species of seabirds and amphibians.

Mangroves also host a rich and diverse ecosystem that supports the reproduction and development of numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. These areas serve as natural nurseries for key species such as shrimp, crabs, and tropical fish, thereby strengthening marine food chains and contributing to the food security of local communities.

The project emphasizes the planting of various native mangrove species, including Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata, and Ceriops tagal, which are well-adapted to the region’s arid and saline conditions. These species were selected for their ability to stabilize soils, reduce coastal erosion, and provide critical habitats for marine and terrestrial species. The complex root systems of these trees not only protect coasts from erosion and storms but also enhance soil fertility by promoting sedimentation and improving surrounding water quality.

Furthermore, mangrove restoration helps boost local agricultural productivity by mitigating saltwater intrusion, enabling the cultivation of food crops and maintaining grazing lands for livestock. These efforts directly contribute to the climate and economic resilience of communities that rely on these natural resources for their livelihoods.

More specifically, this project addresses the following SDGs:

On a social level, the project has generated significant co-benefits for local communities. It has created over 10,000 jobs in various sectors such as mangrove planting and maintenance, natural resource management, community infrastructure construction, and raising awareness among local populations. Among these, 1,030 jobs were specifically allocated to women, promoting their economic independence and participation in sustainable development initiatives.

In addition, more than 15,000 people have benefited from improved access to healthcare services through public health awareness campaigns, mobile clinics providing basic medical consultations, and vaccination programs for children. Over 400 people now have access to clean drinking water thanks to the installation of wells and adapted filtration systems. Community latrines have been built to improve sanitary conditions and reduce the risk of diseases.

The project has strengthened the education of 386 individuals, including 161 girls, through various initiatives. It has enabled the construction of classrooms and the organization of training sessions on natural resource management, including mangrove conservation and sustainable agricultural practices. Workshops were also conducted to develop women’s leadership and entrepreneurial skills.

This project specifically addresses the following SDGs (consider including SDG logos):

• No Poverty (SDG 1):
  Support for fishing communities has promoted sustainable practices, reaching 8,949 individuals. At the same time, the development of community business projects and access to microfinance have strengthened local economic capacities.
• Zero Hunger (SDG 2):
  Increased agricultural and livestock productivity through enhanced coastal protection resulting from mangrove restoration.
• Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3):
  Access to improved healthcare facilities, benefiting 15,124 people, including 7,662 women.
• Quality Education (SDG 4):
  The project aims to provide access to education for 386 individuals, including 161 girls, in the region. It also includes training personnel from the Sindh Forestry and Wildlife Department to enhance local capacities in conservation and natural resource management.
• Gender Equality (SDG 5):
  The project promotes gender equality by offering income-generating activities specifically designed for women, benefiting 1,030 women.
• Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6):
  Access to clean water and sanitation facilities benefits 400 people, including 150 women.
• Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8):
  Mangrove restoration activities have created direct employment for 10,410 individuals, including 1,030 women.
• Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11):
  Improved protection against storm surges and other hazards for 21,344 people.

The CCB certification is based on a rigorous process that includes:

• Project Design: Project developers must demonstrate how their project contributes to carbon sequestration while generating tangible benefits for communities and ecosystems.
• Initial Validation: An independent third-party auditor reviews the project documentation to verify its compliance with the standard’s criteria.
• Periodic Verification: Regular audits, including field visits, ensure that the reported outcomes are achieved and that the commitments made as part of the project are upheld.
• Transparent Reporting: Developers must submit detailed progress reports, including environmental data (such as habitat restoration and carbon sequestration) and social data (such as benefits to local communities). These reports are publicly accessible through online registries, ensuring complete transparency.

For this project, evaluations include:

• Environmental monitoring using advanced technologies such as satellites and drones.
• Community surveys to assess social benefits.
• Tracking specific indicators, such as the number of protected species and the area of restored habitats.

The co-benefits of carbon projects are a crucial aspect of maximizing their positive impacts beyond merely addressing climate change, by integrating social, economic, and environmental advantages.

Beyond reducing GHG emissions, these projects generate tangible positive impacts for local communities, biodiversity, and the economy. The example of the mangrove restoration project in Sindh, Pakistan, demonstrates how carbon projects can tackle environmental challenges while providing solutions to social and economic issues.

By implementing rigorous monitoring and verification measures, these projects ensure a significant contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for all.