Weekly News Roundup October 03

🌳 Special Issue on Forest Policy Science – Call for Papers 🌲

Forests Monitor is excited to announce a forthcoming Special Issue (SI) led by a team of top forest policy experts. The SI will delve deep into the politics of forestry, forest governance, and the future of forests in Europe. Researchers are invited to contribute original research, reviews, or case studies. 🌍 The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2025.

📌 Don't miss the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing discussion sparked by the International Forest Policy Meeting (IFPM). Submit your work to help shape the future of sustainable forest governance! 🔗 More details are available via Forests Monitor's website.

🌍 EU Delays Landmark Deforestation Rule After Pushback from Commodity Producers 🌱

The European Commission has proposed a 12-month delay to its deforestation law, which targets forest clearance in countries exporting products like coffee, cocoa, soy, and beef to the EU. This decision comes after pressure from commodity-producing nations and industries concerned about the impact on smallholder farmers and export disruptions. 🌾

While the delay offers more time for businesses to prepare, environmental groups warn that it undermines urgent efforts to protect global forests. 🌳 The law’s objectives remain intact, but the postponement has sparked debate over balancing environmental protection with economic concerns.

📚 Read more on Bloomberg.

🌐 Finding Climate Professionals Just Got Easier! 🔎

Daniel Hill of the Environmental Defense Fund has developed the Open Door Climate Directory, which now offers a searchable, filterable way to connect with over 1,100 climate professionals. Whether you're changing careers or just starting out, you can explore professionals by expertise, location, and more. 🌱 It's a practical resource for anyone looking to engage with the climate field and gain valuable insights.

🔍 Browse the Directory here.

🌍 LEAF Coalition’s $180 Million Amazon Rainforest Deal: A Game-Changer in Climate Action

The LEAF Coalition has teamed up with corporate giants, including Amazon, to secure a $180 million deal focused on preserving the Amazon rainforest. This bold move taps into carbon markets to fund forest conservation in Pará, Brazil, while protecting local communities and biodiversity. 🌳 With major names like Bayer and Walmart also on board, this initiative highlights the growing link between business sustainability and nature-based solutions. 🌱

Read more at Climate Insider

🌍 Scientists are Building ‘Evidence Banks’ to Shape Smarter Policies

Funders are investing a massive $70 million into a groundbreaking project aimed at helping policymakers access evidence quickly and make better decisions on issues like climate change. These ‘evidence banks’ will combine AI and databases of research to provide rapid syntheses of the world’s science. With big names like the ESRC and Wellcome behind this initiative, scientists are creating a system that allows policymakers to get real-time insights, helping them craft more effective solutions to global challenges.

📚 Read more in Nature

📈 ACCUs Expected to Double in Value – What It Means for Carbon Projects🌿 

According to ANZ, the value of Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) could reach $70 per credit in the next year as demand grows from Safeguard Mechanism participants. This potential price increase offers a significant opportunity for landholders with existing carbon projects to see higher revenue from their credits. 🌱 Those who use their credits to offset emissions can avoid future cost hikes, while new carbon projects are becoming even more attractive, with both financial and environmental benefits. 

📚 Read more on Carbon Pulse

🌱 UK Government to Consult on Strengthening the Voluntary Carbon Market 📋

The UK Government has announced plans to consult on reforms aimed at boosting the integrity of carbon and nature markets. Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy emphasized the role these markets can play in accelerating climate action and raising climate finance. 🗨 “Carbon and nature markets hold the potential to achieve our environmental targets faster,” she said, with upcoming consultations designed to enhance market integrity and unlock more investment. 

With clear rules and definitions, these reforms aim to incentivize companies to take action in the fight against climate change. 

📚 Read more on Bloomberg Green.

🌿 Transforming Citizens into Environmental Agents: The Power of Community-Based Monitoring

🌿 University of Waterloo PhD student Jess Kidd believes community-based monitoring (CBM) can significantly enhance environmental assessments by involving local citizens in data collection. Her research shows that CBM projects help fill gaps in current methods, leading to more informed decisions and stronger local support for ecosystem protection. 🌍

📚 Read more here

🌿 Rewilding Europe Capital Opens for New Loans to Nature-Based Businesses 💼

Rewilding Europe Capital is scaling up its financial support for nature-based businesses as part of its mission to boost rewilding across Europe. Since 2014, it has provided over €2.4 million in loans, and aims to expand further, targeting €5 million by 2030. These loans help businesses aligned with rewilding principles thrive, from tourism to sustainable products. 🌱

The program prioritizes small enterprises near rewilding landscapes but also supports scalable, high-impact projects beyond. Whether it's marine rewilding, wildlife tourism, or sustainable timber, Rewilding Europe Capital is fostering a new wave of nature-based economies.

Read more in Rewilding Europe.