Oxford Type 2
Conservation
This category typically consists of nature-based projects that help retain an existing source of natural carbon storage that would otherwise be at risk–for example, rainforests that would be cut down for development or peat bogs that might be drained for agriculture.
Example projects
Katingan Mentaya Peatland Conservation
Manoa Avoided Deforestation
Benefits
If we want to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, it is critical that we maintain existing natural stores of carbon and keep their carbon out of the atmosphere. These projects are already available at scale and can drive impact now.
Challenges
- Overestimation of Impact:
Reduction projects can overestimate how much carbon would have been emitted if the project did not exist and therefore overestimate the impact of the project. - Durability:
Nature-based projects are susceptible to risks like fire and infestations. They also run the risk of having their benefit reversed after the project ends.