CO2OL Tropical Mix, Panama

The project area spans several provinces of Panama. Former fallow and degraded pastureland is reforested with mainly native tree species and turned into ecologically valuable mixed forests. The project aims to combine sustainable timber and cacao production with the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem restoration. Sustainable management creates employment opportunities and ensures knowledge-transfer in close collaboration with local indigenous communities.

CO2OL Tropical Mix is one of the worldwide first Gold Standard forestry projects; moreover, the cacao areas are the very first Gold Standard agroforestry areas. In addition, the project area is certified by the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) and the cacao areas are UTZ certified. In 2014, the project became the first ever forestry project to successfully complete the Gold Standard “Performance Certification” and generating verified (ex-post) carbon credits.

HOW IT WORKS 
Ecosystem restoration and the planting of trees increases carbon stock on the land.  Analyses of heartwood of 22 hardwood species showed that the carbon content ranged from 46.27% to 49.97% 

CARBON OFFSETS MADE IT HAPPEN 
The carbon funds paid for the restoration of the land and the continued protection.

OTHER BENEFITS OF THE INSTALLATION 

The project provides long-term employment for the local population. So far, the reforestation-project has created 150 jobs in Panama.

All employees receive a wage above the legal minimum, including health insurance and a pension fund. Furthermore, they receive additional optional benefits such as a life insurance, an internal credit programme, training and further education.

The training and further education of the local population in forest management technologies, environmental aspects and issues of health and safety lead to an improved living standard and income security. By use of sustainable and innovative forest management technologies, an additional knowledge transfer is taking place.

The commercialization of certified tropical timber, carbon credits, cacao and seed materials create sustainable sources of income for the local population. Regional development is further promoted by support for local schools and initiatives.

Through the high percentage of native species and the reforestation of mixed cultures, an ecosystem is created, which offers new habitats for animals as well as plants. The reforestation areas serve as bridges for wandering animals seeking new habitats.