You have surely heard of carbon credits, but do you truly know what they are? How can algae and bioplastics contribute to this rapidly growing market? In this article, we focus on an essential concept for both the preservation of our planet and the survival of our species: carbon credits.
Why were carbon credits introduced?
Carbon credits emerged as a market mechanism aiming to reward countries or companies that take effective actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These actions can encompass various strategies, from tree planting and the use of clean energy to investing in more efficient technologies that minimize environmental impact. However, it is important to highlight that the fight against the climate crisis is a complex and multifaceted issue.
There is no single solution that can solve this imminent crisis. This battle requires a combination of cooperation and commitment from major greenhouse gas emitters, both at the national level and within each company or individual, as well as active involvement from providers of technological, technical, and biological solutions.
How does it work in Brazil?
Within this global scenario, Brazil stands out for its vast potential to obtain carbon credits. Rich in natural resources, such as the Amazon Rainforest, one of the largest in the world, its extensive coastline, and the abundance of sunlight and wind, the country has unparalleled capacity for clean energy production. However, it faces a series of challenges, such as wildfires, illegal deforestation, and mining, which harm the environment and contribute to global warming.
Here we encounter an interesting and concerning paradox: while plant growth proves to be the most efficient means of carbon sequestration from the atmosphere, in Brazil, this very activity has been the main cause of greenhouse gas emissions. The reasons are diverse and include wildfires, illegal deforestation, and difficulties in effectively implementing laws in a country of continental proportions.
However, it is crucial to clarify a common misconception: the idea that Brazil is degrading its biodiversity solely to promote economic development through agricultural commodity production.
In fact, some agribusiness giants are already mobilizing to improve their production chains, making them increasingly traceable and voluntarily committing to decarbonization. Therefore, carbon credits should not be seen as a "free pass" to pollute. On the contrary, they exist to motivate and reward those who are making significant contributions to environmental preservation.
By pricing a positive externality, such as carbon sequestration, carbon credits incentivize more sustainable and responsible practices.
The positive impact of Seaweed and Bioplastics
This is where seaweed, these small marvels of the ocean, come into play. They have the incredible ability to absorb more greenhouse gases than land plants and do not bring the same problems associated with deforestation or wildfires. Investing in seaweed, therefore, represents a smart strategy to earn carbon credits while protecting our planet. Additionally, the production of biodegradable bioplastics emerges as another efficient way to obtain carbon credits.
Unlike regular plastic, which is a major environmental villain, biodegradable bioplastics are made from natural materials that easily decompose without leaving toxic residues. Furthermore, their production contributes to the absorption of polluting gases.
At Grisea, our main goal is to seek innovative and sustainable ways to contribute to the preservation of our planet for future generations. We are committed to developing solutions that not only minimize environmental impact but also encourage conservation and sustainability. We invite you to join us on this journey because we believe that together we can make a significant difference in the fight against climate change and in building a greener and more sustainable future.
Content and writing by: Felipe Teixeira
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