Let's Talk Carbon Credits
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In the age of climate crisis, the quest to quantify carbon emissions and sequestration has become paramount. So how exactly does veritree measure carbon? In this blog, we peel back the layers of our methodology.
Before delving into the methodology itself, it's important to understand the two primary categories of carbon: green and blue. Green carbon resides in terrestrial ecosystems like forests and grasslands, where plants absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, storing it in their biomass and soil. Blue carbon, on the other hand, inhabits coastal and marine ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrasses, capturing carbon from water and air and storing it in their biomass and sediment. Both green and blue carbon are integral in mitigating climate change, each playing a unique role in sequestering carbon.
At the outset, veritree begins with Phase 1, where estimations are made at a forest type level. These estimates are rooted in rigorous scientific research, drawing from peer-reviewed literature sources and data from our trusted planting partners. By considering factors such as tree species, density, maturity, and survival rate, veritree calculates carbon stock at this initial phase. These calculations serve as the statistical backbone for veritree's Impact Hubs and Partner Portals, providing our partners with reliable insights into their carbon sequestration potential.
In Phase 2, veritree shifts gears to a more tailored approach, refining its calculations through monitoring and data analysis with the use of a project’s baseline and reference site. Utilizing remote sensing data from Planet Labs, veritree is able to quantify above-ground carbon densities over the last 10 years to form informed carbon baselines. This data, combined with our on-ground measurements from a project’s reference site, allows for a more precise estimation of carbon sequestration, specific to the restoration site in question.
The final step in veritree's carbon methodology is Phase 3, where we measure carbon over time. For terrestrial ecosystems, this involves the meticulous assessment of Above Ground and Below Ground Carbon using advanced technologies like LiDAR and soil sampling. LiDAR, with its ability to scan and classify surface points, provides detailed insights into above-ground tree biomass and density, while soil samples offer crucial data on below-ground carbon content. veritree leverages open-source LiDAR data and partners with academic institutions like the University of Alberta to ensure accuracy and reliability. In remote areas where LiDAR data is unavailable, we employ innovative solutions like high-overlap orthophoto point cloud capture to gather comparable data.
As veritree continues to refine its carbon methodology, our vision extends beyond measurement to forecasting. The long-term goal of Phase 3 is to create Digital Twins, sophisticated models that predict carbon growth based on years of data. This groundbreaking approach holds the potential to revolutionize carbon management, providing our partners with invaluable insights into future carbon sequestration potential. In the complex world of carbon measurement, we hope to pave the way towards more precision and reliability through by combining scientific rigor with cutting-edge technology.
June 3, 2024
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