In Vanuatu, the world’s most vulnerable nation to climate change, Ser-Thiac shows the power of local leadership and resilience. This indigenous landowner business has created the first accredited forest carbon project in the Pacific Islands. Ser-Thiac protects and restores tropical rainforests, sequestering carbon while reducing vulnerability to flooding, drought, and wind damage. In an era where forest carbon projects are large-scale, Ser-Thiac offers a powerful alternative based on indigenous land rights and stewardship that has potential to be replicated across the Western Pacific Islands. As part of the wider Nakau Programme, this initiative has reduced approximately 15,000 tons of CO2 emissions from avoided deforestation and forest regeneration. Ser-Thiac is entirely self-sustaining and will generate income from carbon sales for 30 years, with the option to extend through new generations. The initiative’s innovative financing illustrates a sustainable pathway to protect forests, enhance local livelihoods, and increase climate resilience across the Pacific.

 

Key facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2019

Founded: 2011

Location: Port Vila, Efate, Vanuatu

Ecosystem: Forests

 

Case study

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