In observance of President's Day, we are closed on Monday, February 19, 2024.

Microsoft teams up with Chestnut Carbon for a unique afforestation project, aiming for significant carbon dioxide removal.

Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) has finalized a significant environmental deal. They've partnered with Chestnut Carbon for carbon removal credits. This step is key to achieving Microsoft's sustainability goals.

Chestnut's approach differs from typical offset deals. Instead of preserving existing trees, they plant new ones on previously used land. This offers more environmental benefits, according to founder Ben Dell.

Dell described the project's scale. "It's the largest U.S. afforestation project ever registered," he said.

statement
The deal specifies a 15-year credit acquisition period for Microsoft. These credits come from trees in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. Microsoft will receive the first credits in three years. This allows time for the trees to mature, Dell explained. The financial details remain undisclosed. However, the credits are significant. They represent up to 2.7 million tons of carbon removal over the contract's lifespan.

Brian Marrs, senior director at Microsoft, expressed enthusiasm. "We're excited to work with Chestnut on high-quality, U.S.-based nature solutions," he said.

For Microsoft, such carbon removal programs are vital. They're integral to the company's goal of being carbon negative by 2030. This means actively reducing atmospheric greenhouse gases. In 2022, Microsoft contracted for over 1.4 million metric tons of carbon removal.

These removal methods include afforestation and technologies like direct air capture.

Chestnut, supported by Kimmeridge Energy Management, finds Microsoft as its first major client. The partnership's revenue enables Chestnut to reinvest in new land acquisitions. This comes from Kimmeridge's $200 million initial investment in Chestnut, Dell noted. Dell also serves as Kimmeridge's managing partner.

Samira is an Electronics and Communications Engineer by profession, but deep inside, her heart is a nomad! She's a state champion debater, a public speaker, a scriptwriter, a theater actress, but most importantly — A GREEN CITIZEN! She thinks of herself as a storyteller who thrives on enjoying the life at fullest and telling everyone the tales of life.

Subscribe to
our newsletter