Biodiversity credits from agroforestry systems
How to credit biodiversity under the #SexyTrees methodology
TL:DR = The biodiversity crediting layer is experimental; we'll keep this page updated real-time.
Biodiversity credits from uplift or restoration protocols currently average $300/unit (Paynter et al. 2024). We know high-quality agroforestry systems (AFS) are reliably associated with greater biodiversity than monoculture crops (Scales and Marsden 2008; Martello et al. 2024). Therefore, financial systems meant to fairly compensate them would reliably incorporate crediting in the biodiversity dimension.
However, this is not a simple proposition. These credits take an average of two years to generate, lack standardization (see Current science), and biodiversity credits are a frontier market (see Frontier Market ).
This layer of the protocol is experimental. We have done a thorough review and concluded that our environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is the only metric our group can truly get behind. But we would not choose an emerging technology if there was anything else reasonably available.
This tool is not standardized (see Calculation). It lacks basic science and market data that would inform its unit economics for projects. We also need to generate reasonable statistical parameters from the related methodology. It also lacks reference libraries widely across biodiverse zones.
Currently, we can only describe the most accurate theoretical protocol and our sampling methodology to prove it in real-world piloting (see Water Bucket Protocol) with the caveat that costs are likely still prohibitive ($200/sample + unknown number of samples to reach scientific certainty).
We conclude uplift biodiversity credits are not currently economically feasible at the 1-ha scale, but could be feasible if projects reach a bigger area or have paired academic research funding.
In the interim, SexyTrees can be planted and measured around more tangible methods, trees planted, and biochar sequestered. This is easy access to the market, already has a sales pipeline, and is more forgiving in terms of scientific accuracy.
Next steps and theoretical basis for the updating protocol follow.
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