In this episode of "The Cone Zone," Jesus delves into the critical topic of carbon storage in forests and introduces the innovative Reforest America Carbon Program by American Forests. Ben Rushakoff, from American Forests, provides insights into how this program connects landowners with carbon finance to fund climate-smart reforestation projects.
The discussion touches upon the program's objectives, partnership opportunities for corporations seeking nature-based climate solutions, and its differentiation from traditional carbon credit systems. Rushakoff emphasizes the importance of planting carbon-rich, climate-adapted forests and outlines the unique qualities of such forests.
Despite the high cost of reforestation, it is hailed as the lowest-cost method of carbon removal from the atmosphere. The episode explores factors influencing reforestation costs and compares them to other carbon capture methods.
Rushakoff shares perspectives on the viability of carbon storage and capture technology versus natural carbon sinks, advocating for a balanced approach. He also discusses the program's impact on forests, communities, and emissions, along with future prospects and ideal outcomes.
References:
Carbon financing. American Forests. (2024, March 18). https://www.americanforests.org/project/racp/
How forests store carbon. Penn State Extension. (n.d.). https://extension.psu.edu/how-forests-store-carbon#:~:text=Forests%20are%20an%20important%20carbon,planting%20occurs%20on%20the%20landscape
Lindsey, R. (2023, April 9). Climate change: Atmospheric carbon dioxide. NOAA Climate.gov. https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-atmospheric-carbon-dioxide
Person, Bardeen, S., & Peterson, C. (2023, November 15). Are carbon offsets actually working?. Public Policy Institute of California. https://www.ppic.org/blog/are-carbon-offsets-actually-working/
What is a carbon sink?. ClientEarth. (n.d.). https://www.clientearth.org/latest/news/what-is-a-carbon-sink/
Additional Material:
What are greenhouse gasses?
https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases
What is carbon finance?
https://www.americanforests.org/project/racp/
What is Verra?
The producers of The Cone Zone strongly believe in the value of open discourse, and the right to freedom of expression. We would like to remind listeners that the views and comments expressed by our guests are theirs and theirs alone, and do not necessarily represent the opinions and perspectives of the Cone Zone’s project sponsors or affiliates, including American Forests, the California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers.