Amazonas and Verra Partner to Strengthen Carbon Markets and Protect Rainforests

During COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Verra and the state of Amazonas, Brazil, unveiled a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance regional carbon markets. Signed on November 13, this partnership aims to establish high-integrity carbon credits, fortify regulations, and promote sustainable development in one of the planet’s most ecologically rich areas.

Toucans sitting on a tree branch in the Amazon rainforest. AI generated picture.

Preserving Biodiversity in the Amazon

Amazonas, with 92% of its land blanketed by untouched rainforest, is uniquely positioned to lead in carbon market innovation. The collaboration leverages Verra’s expertise, including methodologies such as Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD), to protect critical ecosystems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative will not only conserve biodiversity but also empower local communities and foster a low-carbon economy.

Eduardo Taveira, Amazonas’ Secretary for the Environment, highlighted the importance of the initiative. ‘This partnership represents a significant advance in the sustainability trajectory of Amazonas, as it will provide all the necessary support for the State to be a generator of high-integrity credits, following strict environmental criteria, with a guarantee of high environmental, social and low carbon economy impact that we seek,’ Taveira said.

Verra’s Expertise: A Catalyst for Action

As a global leader in carbon certification, Verra will offer technical support to Amazonas, including training on standards like the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standards (CCBS). This capacity-building initiative aims to ensure Amazonas can maximise its natural potential while contributing to global environmental goals.

A Model for Climate and Economic Progress

The partnership also focuses on creating transparent regulations through public dialogue and community engagement. Verra CEO Mandy Rambharos emphasised the broader impact, stating, ‘We are honoured that the state of Amazonas selected Verra as a partner in strengthening regional carbon markets. These markets hold the key to unlocking the climate finance needed to reduce emissions, save forests, retain biodiversity, and support local communities.’

By combining Amazonas’ unparalleled natural resources with Verra’s advanced methodologies, this alliance offers a roadmap for achieving sustainability. It underscores the urgent need to protect ecosystems while driving innovative environmental solutions, setting a benchmark for regional and global action.

This agreement showcases how safeguarding biodiversity and leveraging carbon markets can go hand-in-hand, ensuring that environmental stewardship fuels both ecological and economic growth.