Forest protection project approved under CFI

The Sunset Ranch Native Forest Protection Project has been declared eligible under the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI) by the Australian Government. The CFI provides a financial incentive for farmers and land managers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or to sequester carbon.

Based in western NSW, the project protects approximately 8500 ha of native forest that had been approved for clearing by the NSW Government, including significant areas of native forest and fauna habitat. The forest is now protected for a minimum of 100 years.

The project is being jointly developed by Climate Friendly, South Pole Carbon and Carbon Farmers of Australia. Climate Friendly CEO Freddy Sharpe noted, “Combining carbon projects with existing farming practices has provided an extra revenue stream for farmers in the region, allowing them to keep farming and at the same time protect the environment.”  

The project was a unique candidate for the CFI because the property is located on leasehold land. In order to be declared eligible, the NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, was required to provide consent to the project going ahead. The project was also rigorously assessed by the Clean Energy Regulator and received consent from the landowner’s bank.

“Farmers are always looking for enterprise diversity,” said Carbon Farmers of Australia Director Louisa Kiely, “and this project proves that carbon trading and emissions reductions can be good business for farmers and regional Australia, keeping core enterprises profitable.”

To discuss project development opportunities under the CFI, phone Josh Harris, Carbon Farming Development Manager, Climate Friendly (0434 707 046) or Louisa Kiely, Director, Carbon Farmers of Australia (02 6374 0329).