Heaptalk, Jakarta — In the face of escalating climate challenges, the effectiveness of carbon markets is often scrutinized for their transparency and accountability. While these markets hold promise for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, they are frequently criticized for lacking the rigor necessary to ensure genuine environmental benefits. Christopher Hentsch, the Business Development SEA of TREEO, addresses these concerns head-on by introducing a groundbreaking approach that combines digital technology with reforestation efforts.
TREEO’s innovative solutions aim to set a new standard in the carbon market by ensuring precise measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes, particularly in Indonesia’s complex regulatory landscape.
The climate-tech startup implements single-tree monitoring technology designed to improve the accuracy of carbon sequestration measurements. Hentsch explains that the technology involves a mobile application paired with the Trio card, which enables precise data collection for individual trees. By capturing a tree’s image alongside the Trio card, the app calculates the tree’s diameter and estimates the carbon sequestered using allometric formulas. This process ensures that each tree’s contribution to carbon offset is accurately tracked, boosting the reliability of the data.
Hentsch emphasizes that this level of detail is crucial for investor confidence, as it allows for verifiable and transparent reporting. “We conduct annual monitoring to gather comprehensive data on tree health and project development, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of our carbon credits,” he notes in the interview on Forum Carbon Indonesia’s YouTube Channel.
Increasing Investor Confidence Through Transparency
Investor skepticism often stems from the opaque nature of carbon markets, where the actual impact of projects can be challenging to verify. TREEO addresses this by providing photometric data and geolocation information for each tree. This dual approach ensures that every tree’s existence and carbon sequestration capacity are thoroughly documented, enhancing transparency and credibility.
“With our technology, investors can be assured of the exact location and condition of each tree,” says Hentsch. This meticulous approach aligns with international standards and facilitates the certification of carbon credits, making TREEO’s projects more attractive to potential investors.
Adapting to Indonesia’s Regulatory Framework
Navigating Indonesia’s regulatory environment presents unique challenges for TREEO. However, Hentsch remains optimistic about aligning its methodologies with local requirements. “We understand Indonesia’s focus on meeting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and our technology can play a vital role in achieving these targets,” he asserts.
TREEO is currently piloting projects in Indonesia, working closely with local organizations and authorities to ensure compliance with national regulations. TREEO aims to significantly contribute to the country’s reforestation and carbon sequestration efforts by adapting its technology to suit Indonesia’s specific needs.
Enhancing Community and Biodiversity Benefits
Beyond carbon credits, TREEO’s initiatives also prioritize community and biodiversity benefits. The startup supports planting tree species that provide economic value to local communities, such as those yielding timber, fruits, and nuts. This approach not only aids in reforestation but also offers sustainable livelihoods for farmers and smallholder groups.
Moreover, TREEO is exploring ways to enhance biodiversity through its projects, aiming to restore ecosystems that support various wildlife species. This holistic approach ensures that TREEO’s impact extends beyond carbon markets to broader environmental and social benefits.
In light of the pressing need to combat climate change, Hentsch urges swift action. “Nature-based solutions like reforestation are crucial, specifically in regions like Indonesia, where the potential for carbon sequestration is immense. We must act quickly to address the climate crisis.”
TREEO’s commitment to transparency, technological innovation, and community engagement sets a new benchmark in the carbon market. TREEO builds investor confidence and contributes to meaningful climate action by ensuring precise monitoring and reporting.
