Application of the First Certified Methodology for Wetland Carbon Credits to a Wetland Municipal Effluent Assimilation System in Luling, Louisiana

摘要

Wetland restoration is a critical tool to combat wetland loss and is an effective climate changemitigation strategy as it enhances carbon sequestration and avoids carbon release that wouldoccur in the absence of restoration activities. The American Carbon Registry (ACR) Restorationof Degraded Deltaic Wetlands of the Mississippi Delta methodology is the first carbon offsetmethodology that is specifically focused on U.S. wetlands, and is the first wetland offsetmethodology in the world that is applicable at a large scale to broadly address wetlandrestoration through numerous eligible restoration techniques including hydrologic management,reforestation and afforestation. The objective of this project is to deliver a proof-of-conceptcarbon offset project at the wetlands near Luling, Louisiana, to address science gaps, “road test”the developed methodology, determine costs, benefits, and barriers to implementation, identifycost-saving measures, and potentially produce commercially viable offsets. This is the firstwetland offset pilot project in the nation that also demonstrates the ability to create public privatepartnerships that leverage carbon finance. The results will inform managers and developers onhow to develop wetland carbon credits that are compliance eligible, economically competitive,and scientifically defensible.