As countries work to reduce CO2 emissions toward the global goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, mangroves are attracting a lot of attention as a natural offset (Blue Carbon). About three-quarters of the mangrove forests in the Philippines have already been lost, and their restoration is an urgent issue from the perspective of biodiversity conservation, coastal disaster prevention, and inshore fishing. Many local residents are fishermen and are eager to restore a healthy ecosystem. The government also prioritizes mangrove restoration as part of national land conservation and climate change measures.

 

Ikaw Ako's activities are an effort to make it possible to generate carbon credits from mangrove plantations, which was previously difficult to achieve due to the cost and labor involved, by working with trusted partner companies and utilizing the latest satellite technology and AI analysis.

 

The amount of CO2 absorbed by mangroves is quantified using AI and satellite image analysis, and credits are issued using blockchain technology. This makes it possible for small-scale local regeneration projects to access the carbon credit market, which was previously difficult to enter unless the business was large-scale. Furthermore, the profits gained will be reinvested in reforestation and environmental conservation activities to create a sustainable cycle.

 

Currently, the project is considering Negros Island in the Philippines as a model area, and plans to work with relevant local organizations to estimate carbon accumulation and promote the establishment of legal and institutional frameworks.