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Today, I’m joined by Niamh McCarthy, Senior Director of Climate-Related Risk, and Alexandre Köberle, Senior Fellow at Orbitas—an initiative of Climate Advisors. We explore their report Room to Grow: The Economic Case for Forest Restoration in Brazil, showing how climate transitions open new investment pathways in Brazil’s land economy. Orbitas’ scenario analysis quantifies financial risks and opportunities in forestry and agriculture, revealing a $141 billion restoration potential and 369,000 new jobs by 2050. Niamh and Alexandre share where large-scale restoration makes economic sense, how blended finance, green bonds, and carbon markets are evolving, and why local expertise and due diligence are vital for investors in Brazil.
What’s exciting about restoration in Brazil is that it represents an investment opportunity that’s both profitable and a genuine climate solution. - Niamh
Brazil could actually become a net negative emissions country, exporting negative emissions to the rest of the world — that’s how large the potential for carbon sequestration is. - Alexandre
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[2:42] What Orbitas does — assessing climate-related risks and opportunities
[6:21] Scenario analysis and transition risk explained
[7:23] Using TCFD framework and standard terminology
[9:22] Brazil report — “Room to Grow: The Economic Case for Forest Restoration”
[10:08] Methodology and headline findings
[11:27] Agricultural drivers and degraded pasturelands
[12:23] Profitability and financing mechanisms
[13:37] Political will and policy alignment in Brazil
[14:43] Surprises and confirmations in the analysis
[17:01] Why focus on Brazil versus other countries
[19:15] Regional focus — where restoration makes most sense
[21:19] Importance of the Amazon and Cerrado ecosystems
[23:10] Hydrological and climate resilience links
[26:14] Investment risk, transparency, and blended finance
[30:35] Restoration archetypes and financing mechanisms
[33:39] Emerging trends — agroforestry and new markets
[35:35] Carbon markets, ETS, and biodiversity credits
[39:12] How climate transitions affect profitability
[42:29] Market proximity and economic feasibility
[43:00] What investors should ask before investing
[45:15] Importance of due diligence and local partnerships
[46:10] Calls to action for government and corporations
[48:49] Policy implementation and land governance challenges
[50:30] Role of other stakeholders and communities
[51:34] Ensuring fair distribution of returns
[52:22] Corporate responsibility and supply chain influence
[54:18] Profitability even without strong transitions
[55:06] Final advice for new forest investors
[57:10] Building trust and long-term partnerships
[57:38] Closing thoughts and where to learn more
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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In this episode, I speak to Jen Stebbing, a communications strategist working at the intersection of climate, nature, and markets. Jen shares her key takeaways from New York Climate Week, where forests are increasingly being seen as essential infrastructure rather than “nice-to-haves.” We discuss the emerging portfolio approach to forest finance—integrating conservation, restoration, improved management, and avoided deforestation—to help investors and policymakers see the full picture. Jen also shares insights on Brazil’s leadership through the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), the role of blended finance and philanthropy in catalyzing capital, and the importance of risk-sharing models that protect communities. She encourages listeners to explore the Forest Finance Roadmap as a key resource for developing new forest investment strategies.
“I’m going to come back to my infrastructure point. So see forests as an essential, durable infrastructure and think about the portfolio — conservation, restoration, jurisdiction, sustainable forestry, all of these things together. And remembering that the biggest risk isn’t reversals, it’s delay. So the more you step in, the more value you have secure.”
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TFFF - Tropical Forest Forever Facility
Generation Restoration: How to Fix Our Relationship Crisis with Mother Nature (book)
HIFOR - A single investment, with multiple benefits
[0:00] Welcome and introduction
[0:21] Meet Jen Stebbing
[2:00] Highlights from New York Climate Week
[5:00] Forests as essential infrastructure
[8:46] The portfolio approach to forest finance
[11:41] Indigenous leadership and equity
[13:42] Brazil’s TFFF and the Forest Finance Roadmap
[18:13] Risk-sharing and community protection
[21:47] Blended finance and the Restoration Generation
[29:05] Overcoming capital-raising challenges
[33:03] Optimism and collaboration in climate finance
[34:10] Final advice for forest investors
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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In this episode, Shauna is interviewed by Matthew Kristoff of the Your Forest Podcast. In this conversation, they talk about what it means to invest in forests today – starting with the basics. Can individuals invest in forests? What is the traditional timberland investment model, and why doesn't it fit in most of Canada? Shauna shares insights on how timber remains a key driver of forest investment returns, but that new investors are approaching the asset class as part of a broader strategy that also values biodiversity, carbon, and cultural outcomes. They explore how investors can begin to account for forest benefits that have historically been valued existentially rather than financially, from climate resilience to community well-being. The discussion touches on practical pathways for finance—such as Indigenous partnerships, accessing secondary markets like biomass for bioenergy, and fire risk mitigation—that could open new pathways for forest investment in Canada.
Timber is still the backbone of returns, but today it has to be part of a broader strategy that values biodiversity, carbon, and cultural outcomes.
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[00:11] Introduction by Shauna – framing forest investment basics
[02:32] Matthew opens – news about the podcast winding down
[04:55] Introducing guest Shauna Matkovich and The Forest Link
[15:56] Putting a value on biodiversity and carbon
[22:06] How timberland investment began and pension fund role
[29:42] Beyond carbon credits – biodiversity and risk reduction strategies
[33:44] Partnerships and aligning different capital objectives
[37:12] Timber, biodiversity, and investor–manager roles
[42:03] KPIs and impact pathways for investors
[44:28] Linking financial and ecological objectives
[52:58] Public vs private land investment opportunities
[01:17:51] Spectrum of investors – safe returns vs impact
[01:24:00] How forest investment might change management in 30–50 years
[01:31:44] Final reflections – facilitators of change and investor roles
[01:33:01] Closing thanks and outro
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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In this episode, I speak with Dr. Virginia Dale, Research Professor at the University of Tennessee, about forest bioenergy, biomass energy, and sustainable forest management. We explore how post-harvest waste, sawdust, and rejected logs can be transformed into biomass pellets that generate renewable energy while lowering wildfire and insect risks.
Virginia explains why the carbon footprint of bioenergy depends on the carbon cycle, landscape scale, and timeframe. We also discuss bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), certification standards, and transparent monitoring to strengthen trust. The conversation highlights economic opportunities for rural communities, the challenges of inland transport, and the limits of bioenergy when it fails to meet sustainability goals.
Opportunities for bio-energy include reducing wildfire and insect risks, supporting renewable energy markets, and strengthening regional economies.
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Dr. Virginia Dale's University of Tennessee profile
[00:00] Introduction and welcome
[00:36] Virginia Dale’s favourite tree and climate change insights
[01:21] Academic background and path to mathematical ecology
[02:26] Why bioenergy is central to her work
[03:01] Bioenergy basics and the value chain from forest to grid
[05:24] Forest residues, sawdust, and rejected logs explained
[06:03] The controversy around bioenergy and carbon accounting
[09:21] Species protection, biodiversity, and sustainable forestry practices
[11:14] Perceptions, policy gaps, and the reputation of bioenergy
[12:30] Where critics have valid concerns and the role of monitoring
[14:00] Rural jobs, pellet mills, and environmental justice issues
[15:47] Climate benefits, carbon cycle, and wildfire risk reduction
[19:51] Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS)
[20:53] Social and economic impacts for local communities
[23:37] Forest owners, smallholders, and certification challenges
[27:00] The issue of unloved wood and the role of sustainable aviation fuel
[30:15] Opportunities for bioenergy in sustainable forest management
[31:56] Indirect land use change and food security concerns
[34:39] The role of ecological models in decision-making
[35:15] Investor perspective: bioenergy as part of forest investment
[37:56] Constraints facing the bioenergy industry
[40:44] Final advice for new forest investors
[41:40] Where to find Virginia Dale’s research
[42:35] Closing remarks and outro
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Danan Margason, Founder & CEO of Aarden AI, joins me in conversation to explain how their platform helps Timberland Investment Management Organizations (TIMOs) and natural capital managers find the highest and best use of land. From geospatial AI and NPV/IRR scenarios to conservation, carbon, solar, and data centers, we explore where it works best, where it’s less effective, and why better data boosts liquidity and attracts new capital to forests. Danan shares how integrating biodiversity and community indicators can inform trade-offs and what he’s seeing with early beta clients ahead of Aarden’s launch this autumn.
“Properties with multiple use cases will command premium prices as more buyers recognize value streams beyond timber.”
“Bringing more data and transparency to land will increase liquidity, drive better financial returns, and improve sustainability outcomes.”
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[1:17] Danan’s journey – from law, real estate & tech to forestry and carbon credits
[3:34] Founding story – why landowners need better tools for highest and best use
[4:15] Lifecycle of land investments – strategy, acquisition, management, exit
[5:41] How Aarden supports TIMOs & institutional capital
[6:29] Alternative uses – carbon credits, conservation, data centers, even space launchpads
[8:03] Valuation methods – geospatial data, historical comps, forward NPV/IRR
[10:29] Platform limits – rigid fund structures vs flexible mandates
[12:13] Blending timber, solar, and sustainability goals
[13:19] Modeling biodiversity & carbon credits with scenario planning
[15:25] Data inputs – species indexes, water quality, jobs, and more
[16:55] Technology shift – AI enabling richer, faster land insights
[17:44] Breaking silos – moving beyond single-use forestry models
[21:05] Focus on the U.S. market – early days, next Canada, then global
[22:12] Platform demo – natural language map queries & scenario testing
[23:53] Opportunity scoring – blending multiple land-use returns
[25:12] Innovations – talking to maps and valuation modeling
[26:43] Scaling regionally – from parcels to counties to states
[28:33] Future feature – scraping public land listings for deal flow
[30:39] Forestry software gap – why land lags other asset classes
[33:24] Ideal use cases – institutional landowners, portfolio optimization
[34:52] Less useful – narrow timber-only mandates or very small owners
[35:24] Looking ahead – how tools like Aarden could transform forestry
[39:05] Advice for new forest investors – financial + environmental returns
[40:52] Where to learn more – Aarden.ai, climate week, Canopy
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Michael Schmitt, Director of Sales & Marketing at Air Burners, explains how air curtain burners provide a safer, low-emission alternative to slash burning and wood chipping.
We cover innovations like the BurnBoss and CharBoss, which help the US Forest Service and landowners turn forest residues into biochar, cut wildfire risk, and even generate on-site electricity.
Michael shares case studies from wildfire recovery, disaster zones, and private forestry, showing how this technology creates new value streams and supports sustainable forest management.
"The air curtain traps smoke particles for fractions of a second, causing them to reburn. That secondary burn reduces the smoke so much that it often just looks like heat waves leaving the firebox."
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[0:12] Welcome and guest introduction
[0:32] Michael’s favourite tree
[1:08] What Air Burners does
[2:25] Who uses air curtain burners
[3:02] Work with US Forest Service
[3:37] Development of the BurnBoss
[5:17] From BurnBoss to CharBoss
[6:00] How the technology works
[7:48] Types of wood waste handled
[9:19] Emissions and comparisons
[12:17] Drivers behind biomass reduction
[14:21] On-site power generation with BioCharger
[16:42] Emissions testing and regulation
[17:20] Transportation and cost savings
[19:00] Case study: vineyard owner in California
[20:50] Air Burner Certified Contractors (ACCs)
[21:05] Biochar benefits and crop results
[24:03] Biochar and carbon credits
[25:49] Logistics and market access for biochar
[27:38] Air Burners in wildfire-prone regions
[31:07] Limitations and site requirements
[33:29] Case study: PG&E wildfire mitigation
[36:23] Air Burners in disaster recovery
[38:08] Advice for new forest investors
[39:51] Where to learn more about Air Burners
[40:45] Closing remarks
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Warren Erses, Founder and Partner, and Megha Chakraborty, Research Analyst at CE Events and Media. Together, we dive into their Global Biodiversity Report: Market Dynamics – The Push & Pull of Supply & Demand and unpack the fast-evolving world of biodiversity markets.
Warren explains how forest investment is shifting in response to corporate net-zero commitments, regulatory changes, and new financing mechanisms. Megha draws on insights from more than 80 interviews across both the supply and demand sides of the market, sharing what she uncovered.
We also examine the disconnect between investors seeking practical, commercially viable entry points and suppliers offering technically robust but often complex solutions. From biodiversity credits and verification standards to on-the-ground case studies in Colombia and New Zealand, this episode shows how clearer communication and collaboration can unlock the capital urgently needed for nature.
“Both sides of the market need to learn the language the other side is speaking – without that, investment confidence simply won’t build.” – Warren
"During our surveys, 84% of demand-side respondents said they prefer biodiversity credits bundled with carbon credits, while most suppliers favored stand-alone credits. That divergence reflects a deeper mismatch in confidence and familiarity.” – Megha
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[00:24] Guests introduced: Warren Erses and Megha Chakraborty of CE Events & Media
[02:16] Warren on founding CE Events & Media and their mission
[05:18] How forestry and biodiversity finance has evolved since 2015
[07:54] The impact of corporate net-zero commitments and carbon market scrutiny
[09:14] Launching the Global Biodiversity Report: why now
[15:02] Research methodology: literature review, 80+ interviews, surveys
[18:05] Adapting the methodology and building trust with stakeholders
[23:28] Key findings: disconnect between supply and demand in biodiversity markets
[27:57] Bridging the gap through a Q&A-style report
[29:24] The need for education on both sides of biodiversity markets
[34:31] The role of regulation and emerging standards
[35:12] Verification standards and the challenges of measuring biodiversity
[39:02] Technological approaches to biodiversity measurement
[40:47] Who is interested in standalone biodiversity credits?
[42:01] Case studies: Terrazos in Colombia and ECOS in New Zealand
[44:28] Final advice for new forest and biodiversity investors
[45:41] Where to learn more about CE Events & Media
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Andrew Morgan, Managing Director of SFM Agribusiness, a leading forest management operator (timber and carbon projects), joins me to discuss the evolution of Australia’s compliance carbon market. We look at its standards, methodologies, pricing, and the main Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCU) buyers. Andrew shares insights on SFM’s “ActivAcre” model, which partners landowners with institutional investors, and explores how carbon credits are reshaping forestry portfolios.
If you'd asked me 3 or 4 years ago, carbon and a carbon strategy weren't even considered by most institutional investors when looking at larger assets. It's now a really important part of the value. Traditionally, it was the land and the tree crop. There's now land, tree crop, and carbon. And it could be forming 20 - 30% of the total valuation.
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SFM - Plantation Carbon Partners
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[0:48] Background & SFM Agribusiness
[2:25] SFM’s Role in Forest Investment Operations
[3:16] Evolution of Carbon Forestry (Australia)
[6:31] Understanding Carbon Project Methodologies (Schedules 1–4)
[8:02] First Carbon Project & Early Learnings
[9:06] The Drivers: Climate & Timber Deficit
[10:22] Land Constraints & Strategic Aggregation Models
[11:27] How the Australian Carbon Market Works
[12:23] Pricing, Credit Types & Market Trends
[13:48] Buyers in the Compliance Carbon Market
[15:20] Compliance vs. Voluntary Markets
[16:22] Strengths & Weaknesses of the Compliance System
[17:50] Challenges with Timelines, Audits & Approval Delays
[20:03] Investor Confidence & Carbon Modeling
[21:05] Market Demand Outlook to 2033
[22:01] Carbon's Emerging Role in Asset Valuation
[23:44] The Active Acre Model: Origins & Design
[26:33] Retail-Focused Landowner Partnerships
[28:56] Land Aggregation Strategy & Regional Development
[30:01] Farmer Engagement & Early Adoption Curve
[30:52] Landowner Concerns: Tenure, Risk & Trust
[32:14] Fire Risk Management & Industry Networks
[33:57] Certification, Biodiversity & AU Plus Potential
[34:39] Flexible Models for Participatory Land Use
[35:26] Investor Perspectives: Risk, Pipeline & Land Use
[38:12] Real Estate Pipeline Management & Land Suitability
[40:49] Evolving Client Base: Emitters & AU Offtake
[42:22] Unlocking Plantation Forestry Potential
[44:36] Emerging Trends in Nature-Based Solutions
[46:36] Communicating the Value of Forest Management
[49:08] Actionable Advice for New Investors
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Tony Pesklevits, Manager of Wildfire Prevention, Cultural and Prescribed Fire at the BC Wildfire Service. In this conversation, we explore how wildfire management in British Columbia (BC) is evolving to reflect a changing climate, forest ecosystems, communities in the wild-urban interface, and the resurgence of Indigenous fire management. Tony shares how fire has always shaped BC’s forests and how reintroducing “good fire” through cultural and prescribed burning is key to resilience. We cover what makes for an effective forest manager from a wildfire risk lens, the importance of collaboration across sectors, and how investors should think about fire. Not as a risk to fear, but as a force to understand and manage.
“Fire has been a part of forest ecosystems for as long as photosynthesis has been a part of forest ecosystems. They are two parts of the same cycle.”
"Fire is a fact. It’s not a mystical risk. It can be understood and it can be managed. If you remove fire from those ecosystems, you can actually create risk for the asset."
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Wildfire Service, Province of British Columbia
Cultural Burning & Prescribed Fire
Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis)
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Introduction & Guest Welcome
[01:05] Tony’s Favorite Tree & Background
[03:18] From Conservation to Wildfire Management
[04:44] Overview of Tony’s Current Role
[05:20] The Role & Mandate of the BC Wildfire Service
[07:17] Cultural vs. Prescribed Fire
[10:06] Building Partnerships with First Nations
[11:02] Monitoring & Measuring Fire Outcomes
[13:36] Adaptive Management in Fire Practices
[13:56] Community Perceptions & Communication
[16:08] The Williams Lake Burn Case Study
[17:34] Forest Management Without Fire
[20:11] Forest Practices to Reduce Wildfire Risk
[22:16] Collaboration with the Forest Industry
[24:16] Fire Surveillance Techniques
[27:48] Emerging Technologies in Fire Detection
[28:17] Funding & Responsibility for Wildfire Response
[29:46] Cross-Border & Interagency Cooperation
[32:29] Lessons Learned Since 2017
[34:07] FireSmart & Community-Level Actions
[35:35] The Role of Forest Managers
[37:02] Actionable Advice for Forest Investors
[40:06] Where to Learn More
[41:09] Outro & Closing Remarks
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, Alex Logan, CEO and Co-Founder of Cecil, joins me on the Forest Invest podcast. We explore how Cecil is helping bridge the gap between complex nature data sets and real-world applications by addressing a growing challenge in forest investment: accessible, accurate, and actionable nature data. We discuss the importance of understanding the limitations of current data, the need for better “ground-truthing,” and the complexities of localized ecosystems. Alex also shares what the future might hold as biodiversity reporting standards begin to catch up with climate disclosures – and leaves us with one core insight: there’s no silver bullet, only the power of leaning into complexity with the right team.
“The most requested data set we get asked for at the moment are the key-protected areas and red list data sets – driven by regulatory pressure around nature risk.”
“There's a big missing piece in the world right now, and that’s reliable, global ground-truth data to benchmark and train nature
models.”
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Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Introduction: Meet Alex Logan, CEO of Cecil
[00:31] What’s Your Favorite Tree?
[01:00] Alex’s Background and Career Journey
[01:46] The Birth of Cecil: From Climate to Nature
[02:57] Why Nature Data Matters
[03:53] The Problem Cecil is Solving
[04:35] How Cecil Has Evolved Over Time
[06:06] Pivoting to a Data-Centric Model
[07:34] What Is Nature Data?
[08:56] Who Uses Cecil’s Platform?
[10:13] Real-World Use Case: Land Banking Group
[11:21] Most Requested Data Sets
[12:50] Data Set Reliability & Curation Challenges
[15:07] Why Context Matters in Data Application
[16:41] The Vision: Smart Data Set Recommendations
[17:33] Questions to Ask Your Nature Data Provider
[19:11] Cost vs. Resolution in Remote Sensing
[20:55] Temporal Coverage and Use Cases
[21:28] What Users Want Most: Accuracy & Trust
[23:27] How to Improve Model Accuracy
[24:19] The Ground Truth Challenge
[26:02] Reducing Costs & Funding Nature Data
[28:39] Advice for Small Forest Landowners
[31:25] Creating an Economy Around Nature Data
[33:01] Making Complex Data Accessible
[34:28] The Role of Intermediaries like Land Banking Group
[36:41] Standard Setting in Nature Disclosures
[39:20] Crystal Ball: The Next 12 Months in Nature Data
[41:23] Final Reflections & Where to Learn More
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Hans Lemm, Director of Acacia Africa Advisors and former CEO of East Africa’s largest forest company. In this conversation, Hans shares lessons from over two decades of leading industrial forestry businesses across the emerging markets of Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Sudan. We explore what’s changed and what hasn’t in African forestry, from the growing role of smallholder farmers to the influx of Asian processing investment. Hans offers practical insights on managing operational and reputational risks, outlines investor misconceptions, and explains why inclusive value chains and realistic projections are key to successful forest investment. We also talk about the critical (but often misunderstood) role of carbon finance and the job-creation potential of forest industrialization.
Africa is generally a good place to grow trees. Trees grow fast here, and there are appealing fundamentals like a growing middle class and urbanization—but it remains a complex operating environment.
Despite assumptions, I’ve never seen real problems around political risk or land tenure in my 20+ years of experience across the region. The risks are different than people often think.
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Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
00:00] Introduction – Meet your host, Shauna Matkovich
[00:19] Guest intro – Hans Lemm of Acacia Africa Advisors
[01:12] Hans’s journey: 25 years in African forestry
[03:08] How Africa’s forest sector has changed – and what hasn’t
[04:12] More than just planting: The need for downstream investment
[05:14] The role of smallholder tree farmers
[06:27] What happens when industrial capacity lags behind wood supply?
[07:16] Rise of Asian investors and local processing
[08:27] Domestic markets: Still largely informal
[09:37] What still needs to change: Standards, logistics & regulation
[11:11] Ingredients for a sustainable forestry business
[13:01] Real vs. perceived investment risks
[15:06] Taxation and technical missteps – hidden threats
[17:06] Local knowledge matters – even within small regions
[18:02] Forex, investor fatigue & reputational concerns
[19:09] Aligning operators and investors for long-term success
[21:52] Reporting pressure in emerging markets
[24:08] The role of DFIs in African forestry
[26:32] Key market drivers: Trade with Asia, local manufacturing
[28:14] Carbon finance: Tool or trap?
[30:07] Forestry as a job engine and community license to operate
[33:01] Field story: The cobra in Uganda
[33:19] Mentorship and career-defining moments
[34:54] Evacuation in South Sudan – and the best beer ever
[37:04] What’s next for Hans Lemm
[38:00] Final advice to investors: Be realistic
[38:41] Where to find Hans Lemm online
[39:00] Outro – Thanks from Shauna Matkovich
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Alessandro Materni, Managing Partner at FLS Forestry Linked Securities, joins me on The Forest Investment Podcast. Today, we explore how securitization can revolutionize forest investment in the Global South, making it more accessible to institutional investors. Alessandro breaks down the mechanics of forestry-backed securities, the unique advantages of reforestation in Paraguay, and the safeguards needed to mitigate ESG and political risks. We also discuss FLS's mission-driven strategy, seeking long-term investor returns with biodiversity, climate, and social impact goals. If you're interested in learning alternative approaches to structuring finance in a forest investment, this episode offers great lessons.
We try to shield assets from political risk and local idiosyncrasies as much as possible, to make them securitizable, and ultimately investable.
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FLS Forestry Linked Securities
Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) & Lapacho (Handroanthus impetiginosus)
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Introduction to Forest Invest with Shauna Matkovich
[00:21] Meet the Guest: Alessandro Materni of FLS
[00:35] Alessandro’s Favorite Trees: Strawberry Tree & Lapacho
[02:05] Introduction to Alessandro and FLS Forestry Linked Securities
[04:45] Explaining Securitization in Forestry Terms
[07:18] Rating Agencies & Forestry Assets
[08:46] Scale of Institutional Forestry Investment
[10:06] How FLS Aims to Expand Forestry Markets
[12:15] Addressing Political Risk in Emerging Markets
[13:49] Why Paraguay? Land, Governance, and Risk Mitigation
[17:03] Target Wood Markets in Paraguay
[18:35] ESG, Carbon Credits, and Conservation Commitments
[21:20] Local Community Engagement and Biodiversity Practices
[23:39] Reforestation vs. Mature Asset Strategy
[24:39] Life Cycle of Forest Investment and Securitization Timing
[27:02] Exit Options and Evergreen Structure
[29:39] Investor Profiles and Suitability
[32:12] Is This Strategy Right for Forestry Newcomers?
[34:12] Non-Negotiable ESG Commitments
[36:26] Why Securitization Is Less Common in Developed Markets
[38:03] Other Potential Jurisdictions Beyond Paraguay
[41:05] Carbon Markets and the Bigger Picture
[45:12] Final Advice for New Forest Investors
[46:17] Where to Learn More About FLS
[47:23] Closing Remarks from Shauna
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Olly Hughes, Managing Director of Forestry, and David Gardner, Chief Investment Officer for Forestry at Gresham House. In this discussion, we explore how Gresham House builds global forestry portfolios that incorporate both financial and climate-related considerations. Olly explains why timberland offers stable, inflation-linked returns and outlines how it fits into the “natural capital” asset class, where sustainable timber, carbon credits, and biodiversity gains converge. David adds rich insight into long-rotation conifer crops and how afforestation and compliance carbon markets (especially in Australia and New Zealand) can support early cash flow. We delve into the significance of establishing KPIs for biodiversity and why experiencing a forest firsthand can be the most effective education for new investors.
“We believe global timber demand will nearly triple over the next 30 years, so we must plant trees both for nature-based reasons and for timber supply.” – Olly Hughes
“Certification is just the starting point—we manage to global standards and then layer on sustainability objectives to meet Article 9 criteria.” – David Gardner
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Favorite trees: Walnut (Juglans regia) & Ginkgo Biloba
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Intro & Welcome
[00:35] Favorite Trees
[01:19] Introductions & Gresham House Overview
[04:19] Why Forestry? Key Investment Benefits
[08:52] Case Study: Forestry Resilience During Recession
[10:47] Climate Goals & Misconceptions
[15:37] Policy Regulations & Market Impact
[18:08] Best Geographies Where Climate and Returns Align
[22:33] Portfolio Strategy – Mixing New and Mature Assets.
[24:10] Carbon Markets 101
[27:02] Timber vs. Carbon Returns
[29:01] Nature & Biodiversity Investing
[36:59] Managing Forests & Funds, Sustainability Meets Scalability.
[39:02] Global Standards for Nature and Carbon
[39:26] Inspiration & Frustration
[42:00] Final Advice
[43:13] Closing & Contact Info
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Charlotte Kaiser, Head of Impact Finance, and Esben Brandi, Head of Business Development at BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group (TIG). In this episode, we explore how TIG is collaborating with Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy to achieve ambitious climate and biodiversity outcomes. We discuss the operational integration of production forestry and restoration components in Latin America, boosting forest resilience through tweaks in management across U.S.-based assets, and how trusted environmental collaborators help address reputational concerns while building investor confidence. Charlotte and Esben share insights into evolving investor expectations, the role of science-based planning, and how these structured NGO engagements support both performance and purpose across forest landscapes.
"Each institution needs to make the other partner’s goals and challenges their own so that we can become a single team working toward a shared set of outcomes.” - Charlotte
“It’s a very healthy and worthwhile process to sit in the same room and work through different objectives to maximize both impact and financial success.” - Esben
BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group
BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group
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Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:14] Welcome and introduction to the guests
[00:39] Favorite trees of Charlotte and Esben
[01:56] Quick bios and roles at TIG
[03:45] Introduction to TIG and its client base
[05:35] Notable corporate collaborations, including Apple
[06:58] Why TIG collaborates with environmental NGOs
[08:10] Roles of The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International
[10:18] Investor sentiment and current demand
[11:42] Differences in engagement models: North America vs Latin America
[13:36] Asset-level monitoring and biodiversity interventions
[17:14] Land sparing strategy and integration of restoration
[18:08] Specific impact targets for restoration and carbon
[19:32] Governance structures with NGO partners
[22:15] Balancing NGO goals with investor needs
[26:46] Navigating trade-offs and alignment of objectives
[30:10] External stakeholder feedback and carbon buyers' interests
[33:33] Key results: carbon deals, restoration milestones, endangered species sightings
[36:23] Restoration R&D in the Cerrado biome
[37:58] Key lessons from cross-sector collaboration
[38:35] What’s next for TIG
[40:36] Actionable advice for new forest investors
[42:10] Where to learn more about TIG’s work
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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In this episode, I’m joined by Geoffrey Seeto, Senior Managing Director and Head of Emerging Markets at New Forests, to discuss the Future Forest Innovations Fund — a global, open-ended forestry vehicle co-developed with Oji Holdings. Geoffrey explains how the Fund aims to meet climate targets through a high-integrity insetting strategy and achieve full FSC certification across its portfolio. We explore how the open-ended structure supports long-term forest stewardship and enables net carbon sequestration under the GHG Protocol and steady timber returns. Geoffrey also shares how corporate capital is driving forest expansion in emerging markets and reshaping the future of forest finance.
"An open-ended structure allows us to steward forests into perpetuity, which is critical for both carbon permanence and long-term timber value creation."
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News: New Forests partners with Oji Holdings to establish a forestry fund to help meet 2030 goals
Favorite tree: Eucalyptus
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Welcome & Guest Introduction
[00:35] Geoffrey's Favorite Tree
[01:25] Geoffrey’s Role at New Forests
[02:15] Emerging Markets vs. Developed Markets
[03:55] Positive Impact & Mixed Landscape Approach
[05:12] Introduction to the Future Forest Innovation Fund (FFI)
[05:34] Origins of the OG Partnership
[06:58] High Sustainability Standards & FSC Certification
[07:53] OG's 2030 Climate Goals & Role of New Forests
[08:51] Vertical Integration & Local Economic Impact
[10:13] Defining “Innovation” in FFI
[11:18] Permanent Capital Vehicle Explained
[12:56] The Case for Investing in Emerging Markets
[13:25] Why Open-Ended Funds Work for Forestry
[15:34] Institutional Appeal & Long-Term Stewardship
[17:23] African Fund & Perpetual Management
[18:44] Building a Global Forestry Portfolio
[22:01] Regional Allocation Breakdown
[23:38] Why Latin America is Next
[25:00] Asset Characteristics: Species, Maturity & Market Access
[28:03] Certification: FSC, Carbon Standards, and SFDR
[30:20] Carbon Insetting vs. Offsetting
[32:28] OG’s Role & Future Investors
[35:30] Corporate vs. Institutional Investors
[38:35] Voluntary Carbon Markets & Paris Targets
[40:25] Meeting Different Investor Needs
[41:36] Lessons from Infrastructure & Forestry Growth
[43:42] Final Advice for New Investors
[47:25] Where to Learn More
[48:00] Closing Remarks
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I am joined by Darius Sarshar, Principal at SLM Partners. In this episode, Darius makes a compelling case for Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) as a regenerative, climate-resilient alternative to clear-fell forest management models. We explore when CCF makes sense and how it delivers both strong financial returns and meaningful ecological benefits, boosting IRRs, enhancing biodiversity, and generating carbon credits. By maintaining a permanent forest canopy, CCF enhances resilience to storms, drought, and pests, while fostering natural regeneration. From a financial perspective, it evens out and brings forward timber revenues, generating earlier, steadier cash flows. This episode is essential for investors seeking a smart, nature-aligned approach to timberland.
"Continuous cover forestry is about managing complexity—with biodiversity, resilience, and timber income all improving over time. It’s not just sustainable—it’s sensible."
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White Paper: Investing in Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) in Europe
Favorite tree: Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Welcome & Introduction
[00:31] Darius’ Favorite Tree: Sitka Spruce
[01:44] Darius’ Career Journey & About SLM Partners
[04:11] Emerging vs. Core Markets: Lessons from the Tropics
[05:24] Why Europe Is Underrepresented in Forest Investment
[08:12] Challenges & Opportunities in European Forestry
[11:08] Intro to Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF)
[13:39] Where is CCF Applicable? Site & Species Suitability
[16:04] Policy, Regulation & Societal Drivers for CCF
[18:01] Why SLM Adopted CCF: Research & Evidence
[19:52] Financial Performance: CCF vs. Clearfell
[23:54] Monocultures to Mixed Forests: The Transition Strategy
[25:40] Carbon Benefits & Carbon Credit Eligibility
[28:55] Timber + Carbon Strategy: Is the Regime Different?
[30:42] Active Management Benefits: Timber, Carbon & Biodiversity
[33:14] Social Impact of CCF: Jobs, Communities, and Recreation
[35:44] Addressing Concerns: Disturbance & Soil Compaction
[39:07] Investor Education: Risk, Data & Demand for Authenticity
[42:14] Final Reflections & The Growing CCF Movement
[44:33] Darius’ Actionable Advice to New Forest Investors
[45:28] Closing & Next Episode Teaser
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today I’m joined by Marcos Wichert, Vice President, Plantation Forest and Sustainability Management at Stora Enso. Marcos shares his international journey across Brazil, China, New Zealand, and Finland, exploring how sustainable forestry must adapt to local regulations, ecosystems, and social expectations. We delve into the role of catchment-based planning, biodiversity KPIs, and the dos and don'ts of Eucalyptus. From certification standards to boardroom sustainability strategy, Marcos offers practical insights for investors looking to align profitability with climate and nature goals.
“Sustainable forestry means managing commercial forests at a landscape level, with the catchment area as the key management unit to monitor and guide the impacts of forestry activities.”
Harvest less than the forest grows each year, and that’s a basic principle of sustainable forestry."
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Indicators - Biodiversity | Stora Enso
Biodiversity indicators for plantations - Biodiversity | Stora Enso
Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metric
Investor News: Stora Enso partners with IUCN to advance positive impacts on biodiversity
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[00:00] Introduction
[01:00] Marcos' Career Journey
[03:45] What is Sustainable Forestry?
[05:20] Global Examples of Sustainable Practices
[09:10] Plantation vs. Natural Forest Management
[12:00] Key Considerations for Forest Investors
[15:30] The Truth About Eucalyptus
[21:30] Forest Management Across Spatial and Temporal Scales
[28:30] Sustainability in the Boardroom
[31:30] Nature-Positive Commitments by Large Companies
[33:40] Sustainability for Public Market Investors
[36:20] Final Reflections and Where to Learn More
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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This episode flips the usual format. Instead of hosting, I’m the one being interviewed by Margaret Morales during a live webinar, which is now being shared with you in this special release. We dive into the evolving landscape of forest investment, where carbon and timber strategies increasingly overlap with climate and impact goals. I share what I’ve learned from advising asset managers and project developers across geographies: from return expectations and capital stacks to risk mitigation and community engagement. If you're navigating nature-based solutions and forest finance, this conversation is full of practical insights.
"If you're not talking about risk early on, that’s a red flag. Every project has risk—it’s how you acknowledge and plan for it that matters."
Trellis (the company where Margaret is a director)
Alexandra Holmlund (Biodiversity credit methodologies)
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Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
[2:07] Shauna’s background – from forester to investment professional
[4:11] Types of clients Shawna works with (traditional vs. new investors)
[6:14] Return expectations in forest investments
[7:38] Multi-revenue stream projects – timber + carbon
[10:11] Carbon as a “sweetener” in early-stage projects
[12:20] Timeline expectations – 10 to 15 years typical hold period
[13:50] Explaining greenfield vs. brownfield forest projects
[16:57] Growing interest from new climate-focused investors
[18:47] Geographic trends in forest investments
[20:40] Afforestation projects: high impact, high capital need
[21:22] How developers can solve early-stage funding gaps
[25:45] Typical capital stack in forest funds
[27:40] Blended finance and concessional capital in forest investment
[30:00] Why debt is rare in early forest projects
[31:33] Biodiversity credits – demand, challenges & local approaches
[34:44] Sustainable community credits & the role of community
[36:49] What investors want to see on community engagement
[37:09] Pure carbon funds – challenges and exit strategy concerns
[40:53] Biodiversity credit methodologies (e.g. Alexandra Holmlund's work)
[42:23] Carbon price projections – conservative modeling advice
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Tracy Buran Evens, Principal of TimberLink, who shares insights from a recent survey capturing the biggest challenges facing institutional Timberland investors today. We unpack the top themes that emerged from both asset managers and investors—return expectations, macroeconomic pressures, ESG obligations, strategy, and valuation concerns. Tracy explains why there’s a disconnect between stumpage prices and timberland valuation, the flood of new climate-focused capital, and how different fund structures are suiting different investor types. Whether you’re new to forest investing or a seasoned pro, this episode offers a reality check and a roadmap for navigating today’s Timberland landscape.
“This is really a sea change—almost $10 billion in new capital has been committed to timberland, much of it targeting natural capital and climate-based solutions.”
Tracy’s email: tevens@timberlink.net
Favorite tree: Ginkgo Biloba tree
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
01:03
Overview of Timber Link
02:58
Recent survey for investors and TIMO’s - what is the biggest challenge you face with your timberland portfolio?
09:36
Five key themes in responses
11:05
Do TIMO’s have insight into clients’ struggles?
12:50
Any follow-up questions?
13:49
Are timberland allocations decreasing, increasing, or staying the same?
18:16
Clarification about the seeming discrepancy between investor concerns about returns and new investors and capital who seek new assets?
22:15
The challenge of the difference between timberland valuation and timber prices - is the market saturated or is the climate spin creating new assets?
26:02
Consolidation in smaller plots?
27:06
How does this tie into the challenge of valuations?
29:47
What caveats should new investors consider, and how can these concerns be addressed?
31:55
ESG concerns (incl. carbon credits and biodiversity calculations and reporting)
37:40
Thoughts on approaches to investing in forests
40:33
Evergreen vs. closed-end structures?
42:58
Concerns around uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment
44:45
Actionable advice to new investors
45:37
Contact details
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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Today, I’m joined by Eric Cooperström, Managing Director, Impact Investing & Natural Climate Solutions at Manulife Investment Management (Manulife IM). In this conversation, we explore Manulife IM’s Forest Climate Fund, examining its strategy characteristics and how it combines both timberland and carbon market return drivers at the portfolio level, and in some cases, at the asset level. We cover the diverse mix of investor types and how climate benefits are structured into the Fund. We break down the topic of quality prevalent in the forest carbon market and the Fund’s answer to this. Not only that, but we also discuss how Manulife IM is addressing investor concerns over wildfire risk and carbon market certainty. Eric closes by reminding us that sustainable timberland is a proven asset class, well-positioned to meet financial and climate objectives, as well as other impacts, such as biodiversity and social benefits.
"I think we need to have every realistic and cost-efficient approach on the table if we're going to effectively combat climate change."
"I will be the first to say I'm not a forester by training, and I stand on the shoulders of giants. It's unbelievable what you can learn and the science and the rigor that forestry as a discipline has incorporated into it."
Manulife Investment Management on LinkedIn
Favourite tree: Redwoods (Sequoioideae)
Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLink
Producer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives
01:47
Eric’s professional background
05:18
Exciting trends in natural climate solutions
07:27
Funding strategy & Manulife’s suite of services
10:31
Ensure high-integrity carbon credits in forest fund that also targets timber production
15:48
Co-benefits/Core benefits
19:52
Structure of the fund
22:10
Carried interests of the fund
23:05
Targets for carbon credits
24:10
Investor concerns re. fire risks and manageme nt
29:30
Help investors to build confidence in new strategy
33:18
Existing timberland clients moved across?
34:28
Competition?
Nature by MaxKoMusic/Soundcloud
Sopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/Soundcloud
Ambient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)
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