Regenerating Nature
2023 AWARD COMMENDATION
Sponsored by Ministry for the Environment
Forever Forests was created to fight climate change by protecting and enhancing the growth of native forests to absorb carbon in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The organisation works with passionate landowners to diversify, protect and regenerate native forests. This work is transforming sensitive areas into thriving ecosystems that promote environmental sustainability and biodiversity. These projects are registered with the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). This means the benefits of each project can be measured.
Forever Forests connects landowners with businesses that are committed to measuring and mitigating their climate impact. This collaboration addresses two key issues. Firstly, Forever Forests assists rural landowners in navigating the ETS. It guides optimal land use while prioritising long-term native forest preservation. Secondly, it offers a solution for businesses seeking to support native forest projects within Aotearoa New Zealand.
Since launching in 2020, Forever Forests has achieved significant milestones. It has enabled more than 50 landowners to assess and revert about 5,000 hectares of land into native forests. It has also identified and measured the benefits of projects, including waterway protection, biodiversity habitat improvements, erosion control and pest management.
These benefits add value beyond carbon offsets, creating a biodiversity premium. In total, Forever Forests has helped sequester more than 40,000 tonnes of carbon, locking it away in native forests. Additionally, it has provided a platform for more than 50 businesses and individuals to support climate-positive activities through its projects.