Ecology & Biodiversity

Topics on this page: * Introduction * Mixed or monoculture * Indigenous/invasive species * CO2 calculations * Social impact * Proof of life

Carbify's business model revolves around the planting of various tree species, but these species are not chosen at random. Our ecologists have developed a model known as the "Global Carbon Standard" (GCS), which outlines our methodology and guidelines with strictly formed rules to properly provide optimal solutions for the well-being of global forests. Mixed or monoculture ecosystems? The replacement of natural forests with monoculture and the conversion of land for grazing are harmful practices in areas like the Amazon. These practices, which were once considered necessary, are now becoming outdated. They lead to soil erosion, release carbon stored in the ground, and promote the use of harmful chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, the food produced on these lands is less nutritious.

As such, Carbify’s GCS regulates certain restrictions towards the practices of monoculture, and instead, we advocate for a more biodiverse approach: mixed cultivation. This method allows different well-adapted trees to cohabitate in a specific area and thus support each other's growth as their natural mechanism. Indigenous/invasive species Planting indigenous tree species in every natural forest is key for the long-term sustainability of that ecosystem, thanks to their great adaptation to the local climate and soil conditions. These trees have evolved over time to thrive in the specific environment of a forest and therefore require less water and nutrients to survive. They also support a diverse range of wildlife and other plants that are also native to the area. On the other hand, invasive trees are not native and likely to outcompete or even displace native species, which creates a negative impact on the local biodiversity. They also severely challenge the soil structure and water availability. As such, invasive trees provide poor ecological activities, especially in carbon sequestration, soil conservation or biodiversity conservation. In certain critical ecosystems, e.g., the Amazon rainforest, cultivation of non-native species, even at a small scale, can maintain the high risk of ecological damage, the disappearance of rare species, and destroy parts of the largest inland carbon storage on Earth. In summary, planting indigenous trees in the Amazon forest is healthier because they are adapted to the local environment, support biodiversity, and provide ecological services that are essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

CO2 calculations We aim to make a significant impact on the environment. To achieve this, it is crucial that we base our CO2 absorption calculations on accurate data. We are utilizing a variety of scientific data sources to construct our datasets. We have created a development model for each distinct tree species, as different species exhibit vastly different results. Transparency is also essential, as we all share this planet.

Carbify’s current development model evaluates both above-ground and below-ground biomass using reliable sources. We also plan to include "companion trees" and factor in "additionality" requirements. These specific calculations are crucial to ensure accuracy and provide evidence of our efforts. We have a diverse range of species and regional data that we incorporate into our model. Thus, the results may vary, but utilizing biodiversity and combined biomass will ultimately lead to a more efficient calculation of biomass. Carbify has been proceeding to plant more than 200 different species of trees. However, we are only offering one type of NFTree for sale. The NFTree represents the average CO2 absorption of all the trees planted. The NFTree could represent any of the 200 species. We just don't want owners to ask for specific species as they have a higher CO2 absorption rate. Why are we doing this? Because we want to promote bio-diversity. The global average we use allows us to plant trees with lower CO2 absorption numbers. We have included a small buffer in the system to give ecologists the flexibility to create a more biodiverse environment without having to make any compromises. Social impact Carbify does not engage in the practice of buying a piece of land and planting rows of identical trees on it. Instead, we collaborate with local farmers and communities to financially support the planting of new trees in a more diverse environment. The local farmers and communities can utilize the harvest for their own benefit, and we will provide funding for the trees. We also provide a yearly maintenance fee to these farmers to ensure the health and longevity of the trees. Our 'proof of life' protocol must be followed at all times in order to continue receiving the maintenance fee. Additionally, members of the community can make donations to projects they are passionate about in order to increase the maintenance fee. This means that the farmer has the flexibility to plant the trees as they choose, as long as they adhere to the guidelines set by our global carbon standard (GCS). The farmer may choose to intermingle existing trees with new ones or plant their own trees in addition to Carbify-sponsored trees. However, only the Carbify-sponsored trees will be eligible to earn $aCO2 tokens. Proof of life Communities and projects supported by Carbify must demonstrate that the planted trees will continue to exist for over two decades. Carbify will provide these communities with financial aid, an annual maintenance fee, and education. The proof of the trees' continued growth can be provided through photographs, videos, drone footage, or any other evidence. Additionally, Carbify can utilize third-party imagery to assess biomass specifications in specific regions at regular intervals. Our team will collaborate with local and international organisations and universities to perform on-the-spot audits. It is essential to visit the actual sites.