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Project Name: Russas Project
Location: Acre, Brazil
Project Type: REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation)
Total Property Size: 41,976 hectares (102,000 acres)
Annual CO2 Reduction: 120,147 tCO2e
Project Standards: Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standard (CCBS) Gold Level
Project Partners: Forevergreen, Carbon Securities, TerraCarbon, Tecman LTDA, Federal University of Acre
Validation Date: June 2014
Project Lifetime: Crediting – 30 years; Permanence – up to 110 years
Project Details
The Russas Project is a REDD+ initiative aimed at protecting 41,976 hectares of tropical rainforest in the State of Acre, Brazil. The project is focused on preserving the biodiversity of the Amazon Basin while providing sustainable economic opportunities and social benefits to the local community. The project is validated under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and the Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standard (CCBS) Gold Level, ensuring that it meets the highest criteria for environmental protection and community development. The project seeks to combat deforestation pressures from subsistence agriculture, cattle ranching, and infrastructure development by preserving over 102,000 acres of rainforest. This area, known for its rich biodiversity, is home to numerous species, including howler monkeys, freshwater dolphins, and scarlet macaws, as well as 30,000 endemic plant species. By preventing deforestation, the project helps to maintain the habitat of these species and contributes to the global effort to mitigate climate change.
The project generates 120,147 carbon credits annually by reducing emissions that would have resulted from the conversion of forested land to cattle pasture. These carbon credits can be traded in carbon markets, allowing organizations and individuals to offset their emissions by supporting the preservation of the Amazon Rainforest.
Environmental and Social Contributions
The Russas Project is designed to deliver significant environmental and social benefits. The project’s primary environmental contribution is the preservation of a large tract of rainforest, which plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. The protection of these forests helps prevent the release of carbon stored in trees, which would otherwise contribute to global greenhouse gas emissions.
On the social front, the Russas Project is deeply committed to enhancing the quality of life for local communities. The project provides sustainable economic opportunities, including direct payments to families for forest conservation, job creation, and agricultural training programs. Additionally, the project has developed several social initiatives, such as building new homes, creating educational opportunities for children, developing a health clinic, and empowering women through social entrepreneurship programs.
Protecting Biodiversity
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, and the State of Acre is particularly rich in species diversity. The Russas Project plays a critical role in protecting this biodiversity by preventing deforestation and promoting sustainable land use practices. The project area supports an estimated one to two million animal species and 30,000 plant species, many of which are threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation. By safeguarding this area, the Russas Project helps ensure the survival of these species and maintains the ecological balance of the region.
Honoring Chico Mendes
The Russas Project is dedicated to the memory of Chico Mendes, a Brazilian rubber tapper and environmental activist from Acre who fought to protect the rainforest and its communities from deforestation. Mendes was assassinated in 1988 for his efforts to preserve the forest, but his legacy lives on through projects like Russas. A portion of the funds from the Acre portfolio is donated to the Chico Mendes Memorial Foundation, which supports environmental and educational programs in his honor.
How to Get Involved
Support the Russas Project by purchasing carbon credits through Forevergreen.earth. Your contribution helps protect the Amazon Rainforest, preserve biodiversity, and empower local communities in Acre, Brazil.
Conclusion
The Russas Project exemplifies how REDD+ initiatives can successfully protect vital ecosystems while providing tangible benefits to local communities. By preventing deforestation, preserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable development, the Russas Project contributes to global climate goals and supports the well-being of those who depend on the Amazon Rainforest.
Together, we can create a brighter future for our planet. 🌍🌱
Founded in December 2023, Forevergreen is a project determined to help the average American reduce their impact on the earth. We hope to help individuals take part in fighting climate change by offsetting their carbon footprint.
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