Piauí’s carbon credit program could generate over 20 million credits by 2030 if deforestation is reduced by 10% annually, supporting corporate and national emissions goals.
The initiative, backed by up to BRL 20 million from Silvania, emphasizes jurisdictional REDD+ efforts, engaging public institutions, traditional communities, and sustainable agriculture.
Program is certified under ART TREES standards, ensuring high-integrity credits for global markets and contributing to the “Race to Belém” ahead of COP30.
In a landmark agreement, the Brazilian state of Piauí has partnered with Silvania, a natural capital investment platform, to launch a jurisdictional REDD+ (JREDD) carbon credit program aimed at halting deforestation and promoting sustainable development. The partnership aligns with Brazil’s national climate ambitions as it prepares to host COP30 in Belém this November.
“This agreement represents a transformative step for Piauí in our fight against deforestation and climate change,” said Governor Rafael Fonteles. “Through Investe Piauí and with Silvania’s support, we will not only protect our forests but also create sustainable opportunities for our communities.”
Unlike traditional offset projects by private landowners, Piauí’s approach is government-led and community-focused, covering a broader territory to minimize the risk of displacing deforestation. This model is already gaining traction in Brazilian states like Tocantins and Pará.
Under the agreement, Silvania will invest between BRL 10–20 million to support the program’s development and help the state achieve ART TREES certification, a gold standard that ensures credibility and transparency for jurisdictional REDD+ credits. Silvania will also serve as the offtaker of the credits, positioning the program to attract global buyers.
“We are ensuring that our environmental efforts also bring tangible benefits to the people of Piauí,” said Victor Hugo de Almeida, President of Investe Piauí. “By leveraging the ART TREES standard and focusing on local communities, this partnership marks a milestone for our state.”
Technical development will be led by Geonoma, a sustainability and biodiversity firm with 15+ years of experience, while Systemica, a Brazilian carbon asset management company, will provide technical services. The collaboration draws from Silvania’s previous success in Tocantins and similar jurisdictions.
“If Piauí achieves a 10% annual reduction in deforestation, it could generate over 20 million credits by 2030,” the group said. These credits could be sold to countries and corporations seeking to meet their emissions targets.
The program also emphasizes benefits for traditional communities and the expansion of sustainable agriculture. Positioned in the MATOPIBA region—a major global agricultural frontier—Piauí plays a pivotal role in balancing environmental protection and economic growth.
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“As a Brazilian leading Silvania’s efforts on the ground, I’m proud to see this level of ambition from the State of Piauí,” said Celso Fiori, Silvania’s Brazil Director. “This program builds on our success in Tocantins and shows how homegrown solutions backed by global finance can deliver real climate impact.”
Silvania CEO Eelco Hoekstra added, “This collaboration demonstrates how public-private partnerships can drive impactful climate action while empowering local communities and promoting sustainable agriculture.”
The initiative is a key part of Silvania’s “Race to Belém” campaign, which aims to scale private sector investment in forest protection ahead of COP30. The agreement, signed in Geneva, marks a major step toward advancing high-integrity carbon markets and underscores Brazil’s climate leadership on the global stage.
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