The project area is located in the Palatinate part of the Westerwald and has been largely damaged by storms, droughts, and bark beetles since 2018. Through the establishment and long-term maintenance of climate-tolerant tree species and adapted wildlife management, the project ensures the development of a climate-resilient mixed forest. This forest not only stores carbon in the long term but also provides high-quality habitat, recreational space, and promotes biodiversity.
Sustainable forest management through selective timber harvesting creates jobs and generates long-term income for the forest-owning communities. The management of the forest areas is certified according to the FSC standard. The Re-Spire Westerwald project stands out as the first certified forest carbon project in Germany developed according to recognized principles and criteria using proven instruments of the voluntary carbon market, ensuring the same quality and robustness as international offsetting projects.
While Re-Spire follows Gold Standard principles and holds an ISO 14064 certification to quantify carbon impact, it is important to note that it is not verified under an ICROA-endorsed carbon crediting standard and therefore cannot be used for traditional stand-alone offsetting purposes. Instead, Re-Spire contributes to our innovative CliMates bundle, where credits from ICROA-endorsed carbon standards are combined with additional impact from our regional project. This approach enhances the overall climate benefit while maintaining full transparency and adherence to international standards.
What makes this project stand out:
- Regenerating Germany's forests
- A window into reforestation: Site visits are possible
- 100% transparency: Real-time project data with our Geo-Digital Solutions
- Enhancement and restoration of ecosystem services