How are our CO2 certificates created in forest projects?
CO2 certificates with substance: Our tokens are based on real, measurable changes in the forest – through ecological measures, modern remote sensing, and clear standards. Transparent, verifiable, and adapted to regional conditions.
CO2 certificates with real impact – measurable, traceable, regionally adapted
The issuance of CO2 certificates in forest projects follows a clear process in which ecological measures are combined with modern remote sensing technology. The basis is the actual sequestration of carbon in the form of growing biomass – primarily through trees.
In our German projects, forest stands are assessed together with the respective forest owners according to the B.A.U.M. e.V. guidelines. For other countries, we adapt the guidelines to regional conditions and national standards. Based on this, silvicultural measures are developed that are tailored to local conditions. These can include the conversion of monocultures into structurally rich mixed forests, the promotion of site-appropriate tree species, the preservation of deadwood, or the improvement of soil and water conditions. The goal is a stable, climate-resilient managed forest with high ecological quality.
The impact of these measures is verified using remote sensing data. Our technology partner, Remote Sensing Solutions (RSS) Munich, regularly collects satellite- and LiDAR-based data on the development of above-ground biomass. The evaluation is highly precise, occurring at least every five years and with statistically proven significance.
To issue the greenfee® Tokens, this biomass data is linked to the measures being implemented. Certification only occurs if it can be proven that the previously agreed measures have been followed and that actual interventions in the forest have taken place. This includes, for example, targeted thinning, the promotion of structural diversity, or measures for soil improvement. Only if these measures have been implemented as agreed can the CO2 sequestration be recognized as a qualified service and represented in the form of tokens.
In addition, further developments – such as biodiversity, horizontal structure, or water retention – are documented insofar as they play a role in the project. This approach ensures that tokens are only issued if the ecological impact has been achieved through concrete measures – traceable, verifiable, and tied to real change in the forest.