Microsoft, the tech giant, has employed blockchain technology to purchase soil carbon credits in Australia.
In combination with Regen Network, built on the Cosmos blockchain, the CarbonPlus Grassland credits were initially issued to two ranches in New South Wales.
The carbon credits are used as a measure of soil sequestration, which is the process of capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide and storing it in soil. This is achieved through Regen Network’s remote sensing technology and is also said to help monitor animal welfare, soil health, and general ecosystem health.
It has been reported that a total of 43,338 metric tons worth of carbon credits were issued to Wilmot Cattle Co in an initiative prompted by natural capital firm Impact AG before Microsoft purchased it.
Microsoft is saving the planet by purchasing soil carbon credits in Australia. They plan on cutting their carbon footprint to zero by 2030. Will other big companies follow their lead? https://t.co/9wNl9CVOjb — Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) February 1, 2021
However, the Wilmot ranchers have increased the concentration of soil organic carbon on their lands up to 4.5%, achieved through managed grazing practices. The ideal concentration of soil organic carbon is said to be 4% to 6%.
As per the sources, Microsoft announced in 2020 that it would seek to cut its carbon footprint to zero by the year 2030. The tech giant also aims to eliminate a volume of carbon equal to that which it has been responsible for producing since commencing operations in 1975.
Christian Shearer, the CEO of Regen Network, celebrated the initiative, adding that it inspired hope in the concept of natural approaches to combating climate change.
He said:
“Our work with Impact Ag and Wilmot Cattle Co makes us more hopeful than ever that agricultural and nature-based solutions to climate change are not only real, but have the potential to rapidly sequester carbon and build resiliency into our food systems.”
Thus, he concluded:
“The scale at which Microsoft is purchasing carbon credits should give us all hope that business can and will be a catalyst for change.”
Source: Cointelegraph
Comentários