Guyana's Forest Carbon Credits Generate $353M and Empower Indigenous Communities

Guyana has made history as the first country to earn forest carbon credits under the ART-TREES standard at a national level. The initiative, launched in 2022, has already generated significant economic and environmental benefits for the South American nation. Since 2022, Guyana has earned US$353 million from selling carbon credits. The country’s vast forests store an estimated 19.5 gigatons of CO2e, making them a critical asset in the fight against climate change.

A major deal with Hess Corporation, valued at at least US$750 million, spans from 2022 to 2032. This agreement highlights the growing demand for Guyana’s forest carbon credits. At least 15% of the revenues from these credits are allocated to Indigenous peoples and local communities.

The benefit-sharing system has distributed over GYD 9 billion to Indigenous communities since 2022. These funds have supported nearly 3,000 projects focused on climate adaptation, clean energy, environmental protection, and community development. The programme demonstrates that forest conservation can create substantial economic value. It also ensures that Indigenous communities receive direct benefits from carbon credit sales. This model could inspire other nations to follow Guyana’s lead in sustainable forest management.