This article focuses on the development process of a project that combines a wide range of scientific, technical, legal, and financial expertise. While the approach here is centered on a carbon project certified by a voluntary market label, this methodology can also apply to other contexts beyond the carbon credit market. The key is to develop an impactful and precise project using tools recognized by the IPCC, ensuring reliable and high-value environmental outcomes. Certification serves as an additional guarantee of the project’s quality.
At Apolownia, we have developed a unique nature-based project management method, applicable to the restoration of various ecosystems, such as mangroves. This process is built around four main phases of project management, which are distinct from the certification process that will be discussed in a separate article.
The project development methodology is structured around four key phases: pre-feasibility, feasibility study, implementation, and monitoring. Each phase is crucial to ensuring the success and long-term sustainability of the project, leveraging diverse expertise and utilizing scientifically recognized tools. While distinct from the certification process, these steps ensure rigorous oversight and optimal project management, from site identification to the validation of long-term results.
1. Pre-feasibility
The pre-feasibility phase, which can last from a few weeks to several months, depends on the project’s origination. The goal is to identify a suitable restoration site and find a reliable local partner. At Apolownia, this step is divided into four specific sub-steps:
Identification of candidate areas: using remote sensing technologies, scientific data, and tools like the Global Mangrove Watch for mangroves, we select areas with high potential for ecological restoration.
Country context analysis: this involves assessing economic, security, and climate risks, as well as the legal framework (including NDCs) and the business climate in the target country.
Due diligence of local partners: a key aspect of our method is verifying the reliability of partners through an in-depth analysis based on over 50 criteria. This step leads to the signing of a strategic partnership.
Preliminary technical study: we conduct an on-site study to evaluate the characteristics of the site, causes of degradation, possible restoration scenarios, and initiate discussions with local communities.
2. Feasibility Study
During this phase, which takes about 2 to 3 months, we validate the project’s applicability according to the certification label’s criteria. This step includes preparing project documentation and finalizing contracts with the client and local partner. The key steps are:
Applicability check: we assess the feasibility of the restoration scenario considering land use, ownership, land tenure, and exclusion conditions.
Additionality and non-permanence: these criteria demonstrate that the project provides additional benefits and is not easily reversible.
Project boundaries definition: we precisely define the project area, its stratification, temporal scope, and potential externalities.
Baseline and project scenario projection: an ex-ante estimate is conducted to define the baseline (the situation without the project) and project scenario projections.
3. Project Implementation
Once the project is in the process of registration, implementation actions are initiated. This phase can last from 3 to 10 years and involves tracking the concrete restoration actions on the ground:
Implementation actions: this includes carrying out restoration actions such as hydrological and topological condition restoration, planting, area protection, and community training.
Validation and registration: during this period, the project is validated and registered in the certification label's registry.
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC): rigorous audits of the scientific procedures used in restoration actions, including sampling, performance measurement, and monitoring indicators to effectively manage the project. This ensures high precision in execution and the management of corrective actions if necessary.
Action adjustments: utilizing remote sensing, field measurements, and impact analysis to continuously adjust restoration actions. These tools enable real-time monitoring of the project’s evolution and adapt interventions to optimize results and ensure effective restoration.
Monitoring RSE actions with communities and biodiversity: in addition to the carbon restoration objectives, supplementary actions are undertaken to enhance the project's social and environmental impact. This includes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as supporting local communities, developing infrastructure, training, and protecting and restoring biodiversity. These actions, while additional to the carbon project, are crucial to ensuring long-term and inclusive benefits.
4. Monitoring
The monitoring phase spans 20 to 30 years and involves validating the project’s results against the projections made during the feasibility study. Regular measurements are taken to adjust the initial forecasts:
Ex-post measurement: using techniques such as permanent sampling and remote sensing, we measure the project’s results.
Validation and credit issuance: monitoring documents are audited, and carbon credits are issued after validation by third-party organizations.
Adjustments and replanting: during the monitoring phase, adjustments may be needed based on environmental conditions or measurement results. This can include corrective actions such as replanting or modifying restoration methods to ensure that the project’s original goals are met, while adapting to unforeseen changes in terrain or climate.
Ensuring Project Permanence
Beyond project management, it is essential to ensure its long-term permanence. Transforming the restored area into a nature reserve is one way to protect the environmental benefits over the long term.
At Apolownia, we have integrated all the scientific, technical, and technological steps into our development process. This approach allows us to offer a complete and holistic methodology, guaranteeing our clients the highest quality project management. Our projects stand out for their integrity and precision, ensuring reliable and high-impact environmental results.
ABOUT APOLOWNIA
Apolownia is a mission-driven company committed to making a significant impact in the climate sector.
We support businesses and funds willing to engage in long-term and impactful decarbonization strategies - within and beyond their own value chain - by designing, implementing and monitoring science-based carbon reduction projects that restore natural ecosystems.
Through technology and innovative solutions, we aim at shaping a resilient and environmentally friendly world, by encouraging the decarbonization of the economy and supporting social and environmental initiatives.
You can drive positive change for the climate, biodiversity and local communities.
Contact us to engage or for more information. Find us on www.apolownia.com.
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