Tropical Mix: A 30-Year Journey of Hope, Forests, and Futures
May 19, 2025
Project Updates
In 1995, nestled in the heart of Panama, a bold vision took root, one that would grow into a living legacy of reforested landscapes, empowered communities, and a globally recognized model for sustainable forest development. That vision was Tropical Mix.
Today, as the project’s 30-year Gold Standard crediting period concludes, we reflect not on an ending, but a powerful continuation. A future sustained by the very people, forests, and wildlife that Tropical Mix was created to support.
Restoring the Irreplaceable
Once degraded by decades of cattle ranching and slash-and-burn agriculture, over 8,500 hectares of land have been restored through a combination of afforestation, reforestation, and regenerative land use practices. These efforts have resulted in diverse mixed forests dominated by native tree species, which have collectively captured 3,379,220 tons of CO₂ over the project’s 30-year lifespan.
Beyond carbon removal, Tropical Mix has contributed significantly to biodiversity conservation. The project area is now recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, providing habitat for more than 20 endangered species, including anteaters, red-tailed squirrels, three-toed sloths, and Colombian white-faced capuchins. These species benefit from increased habitat connectivity and a more stable ecosystem supported by long-term forest management and conservation efforts.
A World-First, Certified with Purpose
Tropical Mix holds the distinction of being one of the first land-use and forestry projects certified under the Gold Standard, setting a benchmark for climate action, environmental integrity, and social impact. Over the past 30 years, it has consistently delivered measurable and verified outcomes aligned with the highest standards in the voluntary carbon market.
With the conclusion of the Gold Standard crediting period on 31 December 2024, no new carbon credits will be generated for activities beyond that date. However, one final issuance is expected, based on verified carbon removals from 2024. These remaining credits will be made available in the registry, representing the last opportunity to access the results of a pioneering, 30-year climate mitigation effort.
Importantly, the conclusion of the crediting period does not mark the end of the project. Sustainable forest management continues, supported by ongoing FSC certification and the commitment of local and international stakeholders. While the project’s financial model evolves beyond carbon revenues, its environmental and social goals remain fully active.
Empowering Communities, Building Futures
More than 150 people are employed full-time, working 40 hours a week, receiving annual training, health insurance, and income stability, often for the first time in their lives. Over 1,000 people from five local communities have seen their livelihoods transformed.
Women are leaders in our organic cocoa production, EU Organic and Gold Standard certified, which now offers ethically sourced chocolate to global consumers. Microloans, capacity-building programs, and environmental education initiatives further drive economic independence and gender equity.
By offering permanent contracts and above-minimum wages, Tropical Mix lifts families out of poverty and keeps rural populations rooted in their communities, rather than forced to migrate to urban centers.
When Forests Return, So Does Wildlife
Reconnecting fragmented landscapes creates space for life to return.
The slow, sleepy three-toed sloth, an indicator species, thrives once again in the canopy. So do birds, insects, and mammals that hadn’t been seen in decades. Natural corridors now bridge habitats, and 25% of the project area is under strict protection, ensuring a safe haven for generations of wildlife.
These animals don’t just symbolize success - they show what’s possible when people and nature work together.
This achievement is the result of a collective effort, from the local partners who brought deep knowledge and commitment to the land, to the workers who planted every sapling, the customers who supported the project by purchasing verified credits, and the broader network of partners and supporters who believed in the vision that forests could be restored and communities empowered.
And while the Gold Standard crediting period ends, the impact doesn't. Every credit purchased, every seed planted, every livelihood improved - it all lives on in the forest.
© ForestFinance Group
Be Part of What Comes Next
This is more than a milestone. It’s a moment to recommit to regeneration, to ethical purchasing, and to projects that truly transform landscapes and lives. Remaining 2024 credits are still available, backed by full verification and representing the final chapter of a pioneering, Gold Standard-certified climate solution.
Get in touch with our experts and make this unique nature-based carbon project part of your corporate climate strategy.
