Petrobras, BNDES launch Amazon reforestation, carbon credit program targeting 15 million tonnes of CO₂

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🗞️ Driving the news: Petrobras and BNDES have launched ProFloresta+, a R$450 million Amazon reforestation and carbon credit initiative aiming to capture 15 million tonnes of CO₂
• The programme will restore up to 50,000 hectares and marks Brazil’s first large-scale carbon restoration transaction with transparent pricing
• It is expected to create 4,500 jobs and support long-term environmental and economic goals

🔭 The context: This public-private initiative positions Petrobras and BNDES at the forefront of Brazil's decarbonisation strategy
• It introduces standardised, high-integrity carbon credit contracts and aligns with broader reforestation efforts in Brazil’s Arc of Deforestation
• Technical partners include the Nature Investment Lab and the Climate and Society Institute

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Restoring degraded Amazon land is critical for global biodiversity and carbon sequestration
• By embedding socio-environmental criteria and transparency, the project enhances the credibility of voluntary carbon markets
• It also fosters sustainable development for local communities and sets a benchmark for future restoration efforts

⏭️ What's next: The first phase targets 15,000 hectares and up to 5 million carbon credits, with offtake contracts and credit lines already in motion
• Success could scale similar restoration-based carbon markets across Brazil and Latin America
BNDES plans to expand support mechanisms for native vegetation recovery

💬 One quote: “This is a very important initiative... to meet our climate commitments with high-quality and high-integrity carbon credits,” - Magda Chambriard, CEO of Petrobras

📈 One stat: ProFloresta+ aims to capture 15 million tonnes of CO₂—equal to emissions from 8.94 million petrol-powered cars annually

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