Leveraging Green Carbon for Climate Change Mitigation in Asia-Pacific Developing Nations

This study investigates the role of green carbon—the carbon stored in natural ecosystems such as tropical forests and peatlands—in climate change mitigation in the Asia-Pacific region. These ecosystems serve as significant carbon sinks, offering substantial potential to offset emissions and contribute to global climate goals. However, challenges such as deforestation, unsustainable land-use practices, and weak governance undermine the effectiveness of green carbon initiatives. The research utilizes a systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews with policymakers, researchers, civil society representatives, and local community members to identify both opportunities and barriers to green carbon utilization. The findings reveal key opportunities, including access to international climate finance (e.g., REDD+), the integration of green carbon into national climate policies, and the co-benefits of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services. Nonetheless, challenges remain, including policy fragmentation, inadequate Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems, and the need for equity and inclusion in local communities. The study concludes that addressing these challenges through comprehensive policy reforms, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and innovative financing mechanisms can unlock the full potential of green carbon. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of policy interventions and community-driven conservation strategies.