Division of Forestry and Wildlife: Forestry Program

What is Carbon Forestry?

The healthier our forests, the more carbon they absorb. Carbon forestry projects increase the number of native plants to withdraw greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. Trees and other native plants mitigate or minimize the impacts of global climate change. Forests sequester carbon in larger quantities and for longer periods of time than many other land uses. Replenishing these living treasures is a key solution to moving toward a resilient future. Carbon forestry projects plant trees in previously forest lands with the purpose of increasing the amount of carbon sequestered from the atmosphere. . As trees grow so does the amount of carbon absorbed. Through independent carbon standards carbon forestry projects can issue carbon credits for every additional metric ton of carbon stored through the project.

Carbon storage or sequestration (the long-term absorption and storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide) is one of the many vital goods and services provided by Hawaii’s ecosystems. Examples of other ecosystem services are freshwater purification and replenishment, soil protection, biodiversity protection, recreational experiences, and reef protection.

Benefits of Carbon Forestry Projects

• Sequester CO₂ and store carbon – The trees and other plants store carbon CO₂ in the long term.
• Plants and Wildlife – Protect species unique to Hawaiʻi.
• Social/Culture – The Hawaiian culture is deeply rooted to the land and its natural resources.
• Freshwater – Maximize water capture and storage.
• Coral Reefs – Reduce erosion that muddies coastal areas.
• Green Jobs – Diversifying our economy and connecting residents with the land that sustains them.

Partnering for Hawaii’s Natural Resources

Responsible for managing over 670,000 acres of land designated as Forest Reserve, DOFAW has collaborative experience with working alongside the private sector to protect and enhance important forested lands.  Forest carbon projects offer a variety of opportunities to contribute to Hawaii’s unique and indispensable natural resources:

• Offsetting carbon emissions through the acquisition of independently certified carbon offset credits.
• Partnering for targeted wildlife habitat restoration projects.
• Offering customers the opportunity to contribute – financially or through volunteer work.
• Partnering in youth education programs and much more.
• Help Hawaii to reach its net neutral carbon goals.