Colombia, August 27th – Cercarbono, a leading carbon standard organization, has officially approved the Savimbo Indicator Species Biodiversity Methodology for use in biodiversity crediting projects under its Biodiversity Certification Programme. This marks a significant milestone as the first biodiversity methodology within Cercarbono’s framework, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.

About the Methodology

The Savimbo methodology is a tool developed to address the urgent global challenge of biodiversity loss. It was co-designed with representatives from Indigenous Peoples across twenty-five countries and fifty-five indigenous nations, then translated to global markets by a dedicated core of conservation scientists for the immediate use of like-groups.

By utilizing indicator species as a proxy for holistic biodiversity assessments, this methodology offers a scalable approach for monitoring and preserving biodiversity hotspots across both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. This approach is underpinned by complexity theory, ecological science, and traditional ecological knowledge, ensuring that conservation efforts are scientifically rigorous and culturally respectful.

Features of the Savimbo Methodology

Its primary focus lies in offering a scientifically sound and scalable solution for biodiversity conservation, providing clear incentives for Indigenous Peoples and local communities to participate in and benefit from these projects, thereby reducing human predation through hunting or trafficking activities.  

The certified methodology issues biodiversity credits using the Interoperable Biodiversity Unit, simplifying biodiversity measurement for commercial markets and supporting rural economies. It provides a framework that not only assesses biodiversity in a comprehensive manner but also integrates mechanisms for generating biodiversity credits. These credits can be traded in commercial markets, offering an innovative way to support conservation financing.

A Pioneering Step in Biodiversity Crediting

The approval of this methodology by Cercarbono sets a new standard in biodiversity conservation and crediting mechanisms. It enhances the credibility of Cercarbono’s Biodiversity Certification Programme by providing a robust tool for quantifying and rewarding conservation efforts. This not only strengthens the environmental integrity of biodiversity projects but also opens new opportunities for their financing. In words of our CEO, Alex Saer, «This methodology represents a significant advancement in our mission to integrate biodiversity conservation with innovative crediting mechanisms”

About Cercarbono

Cercarbono is an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development and biodiversity conservation through its innovative certification programs. In the voluntary carbon market, Cercarbono provides rigorous and transparent methodologies that ensure the highest standards of environmental integrity. Our mission is to recognize and certify conservation initiatives worldwide, fostering a sustainable future for generations to come.

About Savimbo

Savimbo is a social enterprise founded by and for, Indigenous Peoples and local communities to access climate markets directly. The company has focused on practical, scalable, Indigenous-led scientific and business innovations under the tagline “HOW to save a planet”. To learn more, please visit www.savimbo.com