Forest Invest

www.youtube.com/@Resources_TheForestLinkThe ForestLink newsletter sign-upPitch Pod is the new spin-off from Forest Invest, hosted by Shauna Matkovich, showcasing investment-ready forest and nature-based solutions opportunities.Each episode features a project pitch followed by a practical Q&A exploring strategy, impact, scalability, and commercial potential, giving investors, founders, and practitioners a behind-the-scenes look at real-world nature finance deals.New episodes drop alongside Forest Invest, with video versions available on YouTube.Pitch Pod is an awareness platform only and does not provide investment advice or endorsements.Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryEcology-Agriculture-Environment via PixabaySign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upSymbiosis CoalitionToday, I’m joined by Julia Strong, founder and executive director of Symbiosis Coalition. In this conversation, Julia explains how buyer-led demand can help scale high-integrity forest carbon projects and mobilize capital into nature-based carbon removal. We talk about the role of long-term offtake agreements, the quality criteria Symbiosis uses to evaluate developers, and the common reasons projects fall short in the RFP process. Julia also shares what investors and project developers need to understand about readiness, benefit sharing, and the future of forest carbon as an investable asset class.“Carbon finance is one of the most promising tools that we have in our toolkit to mobilize billions of dollars for nature, climate, and people. It hasn’t yet lived up to its potential, and that was a key reason for starting Symbiosis.”00:13 Introduction to Forest Invest00:34 Julia Strong’s favourite tree01:21 Julia’s background and the launch of Symbiosis03:13 Sending a clear demand signal for high-integrity carbon removals04:17 The four core components of Symbiosis05:20 Unlocking capital through buyer confidence and quality07:17 The 20 million ton commitment by 203009:42 What makes a developer a good fit for Symbiosis 12:17 How developers can access the Symbiosis RFP 14:42 The chicken-and-egg problem in project finance 17:03 Symbiosis quality criteria and project evaluation 24:01 How the RFP process can help shape the market 25:23 Symbiosis’ role after offtake agreements 26:39 Common reasons projects do not advance 31:01 Why pilots and local track records matter 32:16 Bridge capital and the valley of death 35:01 How long the diligence process can take 37:53 Living Carbon and Mombak project examples 41:27 Building a diversified carbon removal portfolio 43:47 How to accelerate buyer demand 47:09 What is next for Symbiosis 48:00 Advice for new forest investors 49:28 Where to learn more about Symbiosis 49:57 Closing thoughts from Shauna MatkovichFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upBIOFINToday, I’m joined by Abbie Trinidad, Anabelle Plantilla, and Niran Nirannoot from the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), a UNDP-led programme now active in 131 countries. In this conversation, we explore how BIOFIN is tackling the biodiversity finance gap through practical ecotourism and conservation finance models in the Philippines and Thailand. We discuss community-led approaches in Sibalom Natural Park, tourist user charges and coral reef restoration on Koh Tao, and mangrove conservation in Phetchaburi. Along the way, we examine what it takes to attract private sector interest into biodiversity projects, the importance of policy and local institutions, and why conservation is increasingly an economic issue as much as an environmental one."Conservation is not just an environmental issue, it is actually an economic one" - Anabelle00:05 – Intro & BIOFIN guests00:36 – Favourite trees (icebreaker)01:48 – What is BIOFIN?05:53 – Why private investment matters07:56 – Biodiversity investment opportunities09:13 – Philippines: Sibalom Natural Park12:11 – Community ecotourism model18:36 – Early biodiversity outcomes23:15 – Carbon credits & policy gaps29:24 – Thailand: Koh Tao case32:29 – Tourist fee & fintech system39:00 – Impact: waste & coral recovery42:03 – Mangroves, co-investment & carbon48:36 – Key challenges & investor mindset52:55 – Final takeaway: nature as investmentFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upCapMan Natural CapitalToday, I’m joined by Jyri Hietala and Tapani Pahkasalo, Managing Partner and Co-Managing Partner of CapMan Natural Capital. In this conversation, we discuss CapMan’s approach to active forest investment management across Europe and unpack the recent sale of a Baltic forest portfolio to Inter IKEA. Jyri and Tapani explain how they build institutional-scale portfolios, create value through forest management, renewable energy, and other ecosystem services, and position assets for different buyer profiles at exit. We also talk about what this transaction may signal for the future of European forest investment. From industrial demand for long-term wood supply to the growing importance of biodiversity, carbon, and natural capital value creation, this episode explores why high-quality forestry assets are attracting attention from both financial and strategic buyers."You need to understand who your future buyers are—financial, strategic, or impact-driven—because the way you structure your assets today, including contracts and value streams, can directly influence your exit opportunities.” - Jyri"This transaction is a strong example of building an industrial-scale portfolio and finding the right buyer who understands the value created—not just in timber, but across the entire asset, including sustainability and long-term management.” - Tapani0:11 Introduction to the episode0:20 Meet Jyri Hietala and Tapani Pahkasalo from CapMan Natural Capital0:37 Favorite trees: pine and cork oak1:46 Guest backgrounds and introductions3:52 Why Dassos joined CapMan7:07 CapMan Natural Capital’s investment approach9:37 Value creation beyond timber12:46 Current investment markets in Europe13:40 The Inter IKEA transaction14:35 How the Baltic portfolio was built17:34 Previous owners and local forest management20:12 Why Inter IKEA was the right buyer21:22 What made the transaction successful23:19 What the deal signals for European forestry25:09 Forest health, bark beetles and wood supply27:00 Industrial buyers and vertical integration29:05 Biodiversity and ecosystem services31:15 How buyer types shape portfolio strategy37:02 Offtake agreements and exit flexibility38:03 Why Europe remains attractive for investors39:32 Advice for new forest investors40:29 Where to learn more about CapMan Natural CapitalFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upNatureVest (The Nature Conservancy)The Cumberland Forest ProjectBlended FinanceToday, I’m joined by Greg Meade, Cumberland Forest Project Director at NatureVest. In this conversation, Greg explains how the Cumberland Forest Project was structured as a closed-end private investment fund designed to put conservation and community outcomes on equal footing with financial return. We talk about blended finance, sustainable timber harvesting, carbon offsets, conservation easements, renewable energy, and the project’s community fund in rural Appalachia. Greg also shares what NatureVest has learned from building this model, how the fund is performing relative to US timberland benchmarks, and what investors and forest managers can take away from this whole-forest-value approach.“What makes this project different is that we didn’t treat conservation as an add-on—we embedded it directly into how the asset operates, which allowed us to attract concessional capital and approach forest management in a fundamentally different way.”00:12 – Introduction to Forest Invest  00:34 – Greg Meade’s favorite tree: sourwood  01:32 – Greg Meade’s background in forestry  03:07 – What NatureVest does  03:30 – Overview of the Cumberland Forest Project  04:38 – Fund assets and geography  05:51 – Blended finance and concessional debt  09:49 – Who invested in the fund  11:54 – How the project differs from traditional TIMOs  13:27 – Exit strategy and protecting long-term impact  15:48 – Forest management and revenue streams  18:05 – Community fund and local economies  20:41 – Mineral royalties and reclaimed coal revenue  23:35 – Revenue diversification across the portfolio  26:21 – Investor concerns about geographic concentration  27:40 – Local staff and operational setup  29:54 – Impact outcomes achieved so far  33:37 – Financial performance  34:06 – Lessons learned  38:32 – Advice for replicating the model  40:40 – What’s next for NatureVest  43:37 – Advice for new forest investors  44:52 – Closing remarks  Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upSpar Tree GroupToday, I’m joined by David Elstone, managing director of Spar Tree Group and author of View from the Stump. In this conversation, David unpacks the current state of the British Columbia forest sector and explains why this globally important wood basket is facing such intense pressure. We discuss the long decline in timber harvest and lumber production, the legacy of the mountain pine beetle, mill closures, log exports, and the structural differences between BC’s coast and interior. David also shares his perspective on old growth deferrals, First Nations reconciliation, wildfire risk, forest policy, and why a clearer regional economic strategy is needed to make BC forestry more competitive and investable.“British Columbia is one of the biggest single-jurisdiction forest management units in the world, with about 95% of the land base publicly owned and managed under one provincial system.”0:10 Welcome to Forest Invest with Shauna Matkovich0:53 David Elstone on his background and Spar Tree Group3:08 The current state of the forest sector in British Columbia4:42 Why BC matters in global wood markets10:23 Log exports, mill closures, and domestic demand19:45 Internal versus external pressures on BC forestry25:28 Key actors and the biggest challenges facing the sector28:48 Policy changes and old-growth deferrals34:15 Conservation, wildfire, and active forest management38:17 Private timberland, AAC, and structural change in BC42:13 Where private investors may still find opportunity47:07 What would make BC forestry more investable and competitive50:32 Why there is no single fix for the sector51:39 David Elstone’s advice for new forest investors52:53 Where to learn more about Spar Tree Group53:37 Closing remarks with Shauna MatkovichFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupBiodiversity Credit AllianceKratom treeToday, I’m joined by Manesh Lacoul, Global Coordinator of the Biodiversity Credit Alliance. In this conversation, Manesh explains how biodiversity credit markets are taking shape and why credibility must be built in from the start. We discuss the key lessons emerging from carbon markets, including the need to prioritize integrity, inclusion, equity, and innovation rather than treating them as afterthoughts. Manesh shares how the Biodiversity Credit Alliance is bringing together stakeholders across the market to develop principles, assessment tools, and comparability frameworks that can support high-integrity growth. We also talk about buyer integrity, the different use cases for biodiversity credits, the growing role of governments, and what investors and project developers should be paying attention to as this market evolves.“In carbon markets, integrity came more as an afterthought. For biodiversity, integrity must go hand in hand with market development.”0:09 Welcome to Forest Invest with Shauna Matkovich1:14 Manesh Lacoul on his role at the Biodiversity Credit Alliance3:30 The key actors shaping biodiversity credit markets5:58 What success looks like: integrity, inclusion, equity, and innovation7:17 Lessons biodiversity markets should learn from carbon markets12:44 Inclusion and equity across different local contexts15:37 Market readiness on the buy and sell side19:00 Why buyer integrity matters as much as supplier integrity24:47 How current biodiversity credit buyers are approaching the market26:52 Where biodiversity credit activity is emerging globally28:58 The EU roadmap for nature credits31:14 Biodiversity stacked on carbon credits32:31 Biodiversity credits versus payment for ecosystem services35:04 How new buyers, investors, and developers can get started37:58 Why there are so many methodologies and whether consolidation will happen41:01 High-level principles, assessment tools, and comparability frameworks44:10 Why growing government involvement is encouraging46:02 Advice for forest investors and the role of biodiversity credits in production forests48:21 Where to find Biodiversity Credit Alliance resources48:36 Closing remarks with Shauna MatkovichFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupKodamaToday, I’m joined by Merritt Jenkins, CEO and Co-founder of Kodama Systems. In this conversation, Merritt explains how Kodama is using tele-operation and automation to run forestry equipment remotely, starting with skidders in the southeastern US. We discuss the technology behind the system, including Starlink connectivity, real-time video feeds, LiDAR, GPS, and onboard computing, and what it takes to make that technology reliable in tough forest conditions. Merritt also shares how remote skidding can help address some of the industry’s biggest challenges, from operator shortages and long commutes to physical strain and safety risk. We also explore the practical questions logging contractors ask around productivity, terrain, maintenance, and cost, before looking at what’s next for Kodama as the company expands into new regions and machine types.“It's very challenging for logging business owners to find skidder operators. Whether you're in BC or the Florida panhandle, it's really the same theme—the industry is aging out, and the younger generation just isn’t as motivated to do this type of work.”0:19 Meet Merritt Jenkins of Kodama Systems 0:28 Favorite tree: Southern yellow pine 0:53 Merritt’s background and Kodama origins 1:26 What Kodama does: remote skidding 2:28 Technology stack: Starlink, cameras, LiDAR, GPS 4:17 Ruggedising hardware for forestry conditions 5:17 Compatible skidders and OEM integration 7:43 Addressing the forestry labour shortage 10:23 PS5 controllers for machine operation 11:15 Remote site awareness and mapping 13:55 Key industry pain points solved 15:00 Logger concerns: costs and operations 16:08 Remote operation across locations and time zones 18:11 Cameras, visibility, and maintenance 20:35 Terrain handling and machine feedback 23:02 Business model and day rates 25:48 Ideal operating environments 26:51 Logger reactions and adoption 29:14 Collaboration with logging crews 30:26 Kodama team and skill sets 32:00 Lessons learned in the field 33:15 Future plans and expansion 34:07 Safety systems and fail-safes 35:35 Where to learn more 36:05 OutroFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupKi ReforestationKi Reforestation (Instagram)This episode is brought to you by Ki Reforestation, a Canadian reforestation technology company restoring difficult landscapes using drone seeding, with a seed-agnostic approach and an Indigenous-aligned ecological restoration model. Today, I’m joined by Trevor Grant, Founder & CEO of Ki, to unpack Canada’s growing reforestation deficit and why new tools are needed to rebuild forests after increasingly severe wildfires — especially in steep, remote terrain where traditional crews face safety and access constraints. We dig into Ki’s system, from heavy-lift autonomous drones and real-time environmental sensing to AI-informed seeding prescriptions and the “magic sauce” behind the work: pharmaceutical-grade seed encapsulation designed to improve soil contact and reduce predation and withstand environmental factors. Trevor also shares where drone seeding is (and isn’t) a fit, early field learnings since 2022, how costs can compare to manual planting, and what Ki is building next through a proposed five-year R&D program with academic, government, industry, and Indigenous partners. Learn more and join Ki on its mission through visiting Ki's website.“We’re able to tailor density down to the number of seeds dispersed per square meter and adjust prescriptions in real time based on slope, soil, vegetation, and microsite conditions observed during flight.”0:10 Introduction to Forest Invest0:20 Sponsor spotlight: Ki Reforestation1:01 Meet Trevor Grant, Founder and CEO of Ki Reforestation1:12 Trevor’s favourite tree and why it stands out 2:21 The origin story behind Ki Reforestation 3:32 Canada’s wildfire crisis and the reforestation deficit 4:36 Restoring forests after wildfire: timing, access, and safety 5:27 How Ki’s drone seeding technology works 7:20 Heavy-lift drones, species mixes, and microsite planting 10:00 Seed encapsulation: the core innovation behind the model 12:53 Can drone seeding compete with manual tree planting? 17:08 Ki’s use cases: harvesting, wildfire recovery, and mine-site rehabilitation 19:44 Where aerial direct seeding is not the right fit 20:56 What Ki knows so far, and what still needs to be proven 22:11 Field trials, early results, and lessons learned since 2022 24:03 Indigenous partnerships and holistic restoration approaches 25:18 Customers, collaborators, and the 5-year research programme 28:39 What governments should ask before choosing an aerial reforestation company 31:08 Addressing scepticism and proving where the technology works 33:00 Seed sourcing, supply bottlenecks, and planning timelines 37:09 Government interest, funding gaps, and public-sector support 38:55 Carbon markets, additionality, and who should benefit 41:19 Why Ki is taking a slower, research-first approach 42:18 What excites Trevor most about Ki’s current stage 43:33 The future of Ki beyond Canada 45:33 Where to learn more and get involvedFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupBettina von HagenCandice TaylorGwen BusbyKatrina AmaralKirstie WhiteMary IgnatiadisRita HiteIn this special International Women’s Day episode, I bring together seven remarkable women working across the forestry sector—from investment and forest economics to sustainability, supply chains, and policy. In no particular order, Bettina von Hagen, Candice Taylor, Gwen Busby, Katrina Amaral, Kirstie White, Mary Ignatiadis, and Rita Hite share the pivotal moments, mentors, and decisions that shaped their leadership journeys. Through personal stories and candid reflections, the conversation explores themes of curiosity, resilience, and the power of mentorship in building a career in forestry. The guests also discuss the realities of working in a sector where women remain underrepresented, sharing experiences that range from subtle bias to moments of opportunity and influence. Together, these voices highlight how diverse perspectives are helping reshape forestry—from community-centered supply chains and natural capital investing to sustainable forest management and climate solutions—and why supporting the next generation of female leaders is essential for the future of the sector.00:00 Introduction – Women Leaders in Forestry00:23 Podcast Welcome & International Women’s Day Special01:56 Women in Forestry – Representation and Industry Statistics04:37 Introducing the Leadership Stories05:01 Bettina von Hagen – Finding Your “True North” in Leadership07:16 Candice Taylor – Continuous Learning and Career Reinvention09:35 Gwen Busby – Economics, Nature, and Timberland Investment Strategy12:05 Katrina Amaral – Community Forestry and Small-Scale Supply Chains14:30 Kirstie White – Stewardship, Sustainability, and Leadership17:13 Mary Ignatius – Forest Economics, Carbon Markets, and Collaboration19:41 Rita Hite – A Leadership Journey to CEO21:51 Gender Experiences in Forestry – Stories from the Field24:08 Candice Taylor – Proving Expertise and Creating Space25:32 Gwen Busby – Navigating Finance and Forestry as a Minority28:06 Katrina Amaral – Logging, Perception, and Gender Bias29:34 Kirstie White – Changing Representation in Forestry31:25 Mary Ignatius – Confronting Gender Bias in Organizations32:39 Rita Hite – Leadership Confidence and Authenticity34:29 Closing Reflections – Celebrating Women in Forestry34:37 Outro – Forest InvestFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupAsger Stragne Olesen (LinkedIn)IWC AM+International Woodland Company (IWC) on LinkedInToday, I’m joined (for the second time) by Asger Strange Olesen, Global Head of Climate and Biodiversity at IWC AM+, and an independent expert deeply embedded in Europe’s forest policy arena. In this conversation, Asger explains why the EU has historically kept forestry out of the EU ETS, why voluntary forest carbon activity in Europe has remained limited, and what’s changing as the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) builds the market infrastructure for EU carbon removals. We unpack the EU’s “declining sink” problem, the complexity of forest ownership across member states, and why Mario Draghi’s competitiveness agenda is pushing Europe toward leaner regulation—and clearer signals for investment. Finally, we explore what the CRCF is designed to enable (and what it still doesn’t solve), how it compares to existing standards, and why country-by-country implementation will determine where EU forest carbon markets—and forest investment—move first."The mechanics and infrastructure are being made available. The CRCF gives you the toolbox. But whether that toolbox gets used depends on each individual country. If governments allow the framework to play and recognize downstream corporate demand for removals, then private capital will step in. If they continue to rely primarily on state-driven support schemes, investment will remain limited. So it’s not the EU framework alone—it’s national implementation that will determine where real forest investment opportunities emerge.”00:09 — Welcome to Forest Invest00:11 — Host intro: Shauna Matkovich (The Forest Link)00:19 — Guest intro: Asgar Strange Olesen (IWCAM Plus)00:40 — Favourite tree: European beech01:29 — Asgar’s EU policy roles (CRCF, EU Taxonomy review, FSC, SBTi)05:27 — Why EU forest policy is complex (no direct EU forest mandate)08:21 — EU forest diversity + ownership differences11:45 — Draghi, competitiveness & climate targets14:52 — The “declining sink” challenge20:41 — Why forestry is excluded from the EU ETS27:46 — The missing piece: lack of demand29:13 — What is the Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF)?31:37 — How CRCF differs from existing standards37:37 — Built-in revision + piloting phase40:00 — Performance certificates vs tradable credits41:41 — GHG Protocol uncertainty & EU reporting shift44:45 — Investment outlook: country-by-country reality47:58 — Actionable advice for investors49:37 — Closing remarksFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupThe Nature ConservancySusan Cook-Patten on LinkedInToday I’m joined by Susan Cook-Patton, Lead Reforestation Scientist at The Nature Conservancy, to get into the weeds on applying science to forest carbon investment decision making. In this conversation, Susan breaks down what “durability” really means in practice—how risks vary by location, project type, and species, and why investors should be assessing likelihood, severity, and the probability of regrowth. She shares how her team is developing tools and maps to help investors quickly identify higher- and lower-risk landscapes, bringing greater certainty to carbon outcomes under future climate conditions. We talk project design choices that can reduce wildfire impacts, the role (and limitations) of buffer pools, and emerging alternatives like permanence trust funds and storage years. Susan also shares where remote sensing is improving fast—and why data sharing may be the biggest unlock for better, cheaper carbon accounting.“It’s not about eliminating all risks. It’s about understanding them so you can plan appropriately and put compensation mechanisms in place if disturbances do occur.”00:10 — Welcome to Forest Invest + today’s guest 00:30 — Icebreaker: Susan’s favourite tree (and why caterpillars matter) 01:16 — Who Susan is + her role at The Nature Conservancy (TNC) 02:27 — What “reforestation” really means (working forests, conservation, agroforestry) 03:05 — Applying science to forest carbon investment decisions 04:43 — Durability 101: why risk varies by place, species, and project type 06:36 — Mapping risk: likelihood, severity, and probability of regrowth 09:00 — Social context: designing projects communities actually want 10:12 — Project design for resilience: species choice, density, thinning, prescribed fire 11:55 — Buffer pools: minimums vs risk-based contributions 13:08 — Beyond buffer pools: trust funds, stacking strategies, “ton-year” approaches 15:54 — Monitoring innovation: shifting from field plots to remote monitoring 16:53 — Remote sensing challenges: uncertainty, benchmarks, and inconsistent methods 20:08 — Terrestrial laser scanning: better carbon estimates (and how to use it wisely) 22:08 — Data sharing as the big unlock (and reducing duplicated fieldwork) 23:42 — Standards are evolving: learning fast without “throwing the baby out” 26:44 — “Permanent” vs “durability”: making rules fit how forests really work 29:40 — Portfolio thinking: balancing approaches across climate action 32:21 — Output vs durability: designing for short-term volume or long-term resilience 34:37 — Investor time horizons vs climate timescales (why storage years help) 40:06 — Science in policy: how Susan’s work spans local to global decision-making 42:19 — Carbon insurance: what it can teach us about actuarial risk in forests 44:26 — What’s next: durability risk maps + Susan’s “magic wand” wishlist 47:44 — Final takeaway: the greatest risk is inaction 48:42 — One actionable advice for new forest investors 49:28 — Where to learn more (LinkedIn + nature.org) + closing remarks 50:12 — Outro: see you next time on Forest InvestFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupISFCToday, I’m joined by Ross Hampton, CEO of the International Sustainable Forestry Coalition (ISFC). In this conversation, Ross shares what he’s hearing from forest businesses and institutional capital as geopolitical volatility collides with the accelerating push toward a circular bioeconomy. We unpack why nature and climate are now inseparable on the global stage, what COP-level discussions are signaling for forestry, and why “a thousand flowers blooming” in biodiversity schemes is hindering a scalable market. Ross also walks through ISFC’s work with TNFD and the Capitals Coalition to standardize ecosystem services measurement—laying groundwork for investable nature markets—and offers practical advice for governments who have an important enabling role, and investors who want to be early movers in natural capital.“Philanthropy plays a role, governments play a role, concessional finance plays a role — but these are minuscule compared to the scale of the challenge. The only real answer is the markets. It’s the $250 trillion sitting in pension, insurance and superannuation funds that is looking for a good return and increasingly wants to be nature and climate smart.” 1:29 – Ross’ background: politics/journalism → forestry, and why ISFC was created 2:35 – ISFC scope: member footprint, countries covered, and why scale matters 3:15 – Who ISFC represents: ownership structures across regions (investors, REITs, trading houses, integrated firms, quasi-government agencies) 4:47 – ISFC mission: accelerating a climate- and nature-smart circular bioeconomy 6:02 – The policy–finance disconnect: why capital isn’t linking to on-the-ground forestry needs 7:31 – The four funding streams (philanthropy, government, concessional finance, markets) and why markets are the only scalable answer 9:24 – Setting the stage: geopolitics and its impact on forest business/investment 10:09 – Global signals from recent events: COP momentum and “climate + nature” convergence 12:20 – The big project: working with TNFD + Capitals Coalition to measure ecosystem services 13:46 – “A gazillion initiatives” problem: why fragmentation prevents real markets 15:37 – What the project aims to prove: consistent measurement across global forest estates (7 ecosystem services) 17:09 – Timeline and milestones: outputs aimed for COP 17 (Armenia) and COP 31 (Turkey) 18:24 – Member sentiment (within limits): timberlands as a long-game, “stable island” asset class 22:08 – Whole-forest value vs “back to basics”: why the shift beyond timber isn’t slowing 23:41 – The “diamond in the rough”: externalising ecosystem services to unlock restoration at scale 26:02 – Policy fragmentation: why nature markets don’t scale when governments go it alone 27:08 – The hardest leap: paying for what used to be “free” (nature services) 28:51 – Shadow pricing: nature value already showing up in estate pricing above stump value 31:02 – Beyond measurement: enabling conditions governments must create (tech, incentives, stacking) 33:43 – A counterintuitive principle: don’t only pay for “uplift” (avoid penalising good stewards) 39:13 – Global South vs Global North: differing contexts, shared opportunity, where growth may happen 43:38 – Where policy conversations get stuck: finance vs industry vs forestry/agriculture vs environment 45:29 – Davos/WEF touchpoint: reception and momentum 45:42 – Crystal ball: what’s next, and key 2026 moments (Japan, Climate Week NYC, COPs) 48:10 – One actionable takeaway for new investors: lean into natural capital and nature markets early 49:39 – Where to learn more: ISFC website + natural capital reportFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupMarcos on LinkedInIndicators - Biodiversity | Stora EnsoBiodiversity indicators for plantations - Biodiversity | Stora EnsoSpecies Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metricInvestor News: Stora Enso partners with IUCN to advance positive impacts on biodiversityFrom the vault 🎙️In this rerun, Marcos Wichert, Vice President of Plantation Forest and Sustainability Management at Stora Enso, shares lessons from his global career across Brazil, China, New Zealand, and Finland. We explore how sustainable forestry must adapt to local ecosystems, regulations, and communities, from catchment-based planning and biodiversity KPIs to the realities of Eucalyptus. A practical, boardroom-level conversation on aligning forestry investments with climate, nature, and long-term value.“Sustainable forestry means managing commercial forests at a landscape level, with the catchment area as the key management unit to monitor and guide the impacts of forestry activities.”Harvest less than the forest grows each year, and that’s a basic principle of sustainable forestry."0:00 From the vault: sustainable forest management in production forestry0:40 Navigating ecosystem services, standards, and new tools in forest finance1:13 Marcos Wichert joins + “favourite tree” icebreaker (Araucaria angustifolia)1:44 Marcos’ career journey: Brazil → China → New Zealand → Brazil → Indonesia → Finland4:29 Defining sustainable forestry: core principles + landscape-level responsibility5:15 Catchment-based planning and hydrology as a sustainability foundation6:13 How sustainability differs by jurisdiction: Brazil vs China vs the Nordics10:07 Plantation vs semi-natural forests, certification realities, and investor considerations12:50 What investors should assess: FSC/PEFC, KPIs, monitoring, and traceable data16:15 Eucalyptus: myths, risks, and best practice (right species, right place)18:03 Water stability through age-class mosaics across a catchment22:14 Spatial vs temporal scales: compartments, estates, landscapes, and planning units24:01 EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): traceability down to compartment level25:15 Why catchments matter for sustainability (especially for fast-growing species)29:08 Boardroom sustainability: clients, regulation, traceability, and “nature-positive” products31:11 The premium problem: paying for biodiversity and beyond-compliance actions32:30 Nature Positive Impact (NPI): targets, science partnerships, and biodiversity KPIs34:24 Public equities: what to look for in sustainability reporting + red flags37:06 Wrap-up: forestry’s role in climate + biodiversity solutions38:02 Where to find Marcos: LinkedIn + EUFRO work on automation and robotics38:51 Closing from Shauna Matkovich (Forest Invest)Founding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upHarley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest BusinessToday, I’m joined by Erin Lincoln, Director of the Harley Langdale Jr. Center for Forest Business at the University of Georgia, for an academic, data-driven look at what’s happening across timberland markets in the U.S. Southeast. Erin breaks down how hurricane impacts, permanent pulp and paper mill closures, and soft housing starts are reshaping demand for small-diameter wood—and what that means for landowners, communities, and investors. We explore where opportunity may emerge next, from bioenergy, carbon capture and storage, biochar, sustainable aviation fuel and natural capital themes, alongside the growing role of higher-and-better-use (HBU) revenue streams. Erin also explains how investor expectations differ across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, why reporting requirements are pinching TIMOs, and where AI could unlock new efficiency across forestry operations, compliance, and decision-making.Forestry is extremely data intensive, and AI has the potential to fundamentally change how we manage forests—from thinning decisions to trucking efficiency and compliance.00:00 Welcome to Forest Invest00:32 Erin Lincoln’s favorite tree (and why oaks matter)01:02 Erin’s career path and role at the Center for Forest Business02:10 Education, outreach, and research at UGA03:19 Why the program is known for forest finance and economics04:48 Setting the scene: the state of the US forest industry05:00 Mill closures in the Southeast and hurricane impacts07:12 Housing starts, inflation, and pressure on sawmills08:04 Declining paper demand and global competition09:09 Permanent mill closures and real estate constraints10:05 Downturns create opportunity: bioenergy, biochar, SAF11:39 Public perception of forestry and sustainable harvesting14:43 What investors should know right now14:56 Real estate, HBUs, and diversified revenue streams16:16 ESG, natural capital, and return expectations17:24 US vs European investor priorities18:41 Reporting burdens and pressure on TMOs20:06 Specialisation in a maturing timber investment market22:01 What future forest investment professionals care about23:52 Generational shifts in forestry careers25:56 Research priorities: natural capital and bioeconomy27:42 Measuring the full economic impact of forestry28:42 Key knowledge gaps in carbon and forest products30:04 The role of investors in shaping innovation31:04 Advice for young foresters choosing a specialty32:34 Why Erin is optimistic about the sector’s future33:31 Artificial intelligence in forestry and timber investment36:32 Where AI is already improving efficiency38:08 One actionable piece of advice for new investors39:18 Where to learn more about the Center for Forest Business40:01 Closing remarksProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upThe Conservation FundToday, I’m joined by Matt Purdy, Director of Forest Investments at The Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit focused on conserving land in the U.S. while strengthening local communities and economies. In this conversation, Matt explains how their Working Forest Fund protects large, productive forests in perpetuity by taking conversion off the table—often through conservation easements designed specifically for sustainable timber management. We unpack how The Conservation Fund acts as a bridge owner for public agencies and land trusts, what their capital stack looks like (including low-cost debt and a green bond), and why they always underwrite multiple pathways to a conservation outcome. We also dig into how carbon projects fit into their model, including their first issuance under ACR’s IFM 2.1 “removals-only” methodology, and the trade-offs of financing conservation without “turning off the saws.” Finally, Matt shares what’s changing in private capital—from mission-aligned family offices to corporate partners like Apple, and why mill closures remain one of the biggest risks to working forests and forest-based livelihoods. Most investors look at conservation easements after they’ve exhausted every other revenue source. For us, the conservation easement is the first thing we underwrite.”“We’re very aware that turning off the saws can hurt communities. Our goal is to balance carbon projects with continued harvesting so forests remain working forests.”00:00 Welcome to Forest Invest00:31 Matt Purdy’s favourite tree and personal background01:19 From timber cruiser to Director of Forest Investments02:27 What is The Conservation Fund and its dual mission03:52 What does “working forest” really mean?05:39 Conservation easements and permanent forest protection06:09 The bridge-ownership model explained09:06 Managing risk with multiple conservation exit paths10:09 Capital stack, low-cost debt, and green bonds11:25 Two conservation pathways: public ownership vs private resale12:30 How The Conservation Fund compares to other nonprofits14:16 NGOs vs TIMOs: mission-first vs return-first investing17:43 Plantation forests, natural forests, and partner priorities18:58 Conservation easements as an investment tool20:03 Carbon projects and Improved Forest Management (IFM)21:00 Balancing harvests, carbon, and community livelihoods23:24 ACR IFM 2.1 and removals-only carbon credits24:20 Inside their first IFM 2.1 project27:04 Working with private capital and mission-aligned investors29:30 The Apple co-ownership deal explained32:18 Corporates vs institutional investors: key differences35:35 Opportunities and challenges for conservation ownership41:07 Mill closures and risks to forest-based livelihoods43:10 What’s next for The Conservation Fund44:41 One piece of advice for new forest investors46:57 Where to learn more and closing remarksProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

https://theforestlink.com/podcast/Quarlbo BiodiversityXilvaGresham HouseNew ForestsSFMAborcrest InvestmentsAarden AICE Events and MediaMEAGBTG Pactual Timberland Investment GroupIn this special start-of-year episode, Forest Invest looks back at the 10 most downloaded conversations of all time and distills the most powerful insights from global leaders in forest finance, natural capital, biodiversity markets, and climate-positive investing.From biodiversity credits and due diligence frameworks to timberland strategy, land use optimisation, and the future of nature-based investments, this episode brings together the ideas that resonated most with listeners and continue to shape the sector.If you’re investing in forests, natural capital, or climate solutions in 2026, this is your essential recap and inspiration to start the year informed and motivated.00:00 Welcome to Forest Invest & Season 300:45 Why this episode: Top 10 most downloaded insights01:10 #1 Biodiversity credits explained: conservation, restoration & diversified forest management03:05 #2 Due diligence in forest investment: impact, risk, and scalability08:34 #3 Long-rotation forestry, climate risk, and timber demand11:40 #4 Open-ended forestry funds and long-term stewardship14:01 #5 Scaling plantations through landowner partnerships18:13 #6 Why forestry is misunderstood as an asset class21:39 #7 Breaking silos in land-use and investment decision-making24:45 #8 The disconnect between biodiversity supply and demand28:56 #9 How natural capital fits into institutional portfolios30:46 #10 Land sparing, conservation design, and nature-positive outcomes32:48 Key takeaways from the top 10 episodes33:06 Invest in forests & closing remarksProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upFungaJosh Parrish (LinkedIn)Today, I’m joined by Josh Parrish, Chief Growth Officer at Funga.Josh explains how restoring the forest soil microbiome with native mycorrhizal fungi can meaningfully improve tree survival and boost growth rates in intensively managed Southern pine plantations, without relying on synthetic inputs.We explore the science and technology behind Funga’s approach, including DNA sequencing, machine learning analysis of fungal communities, nursery inoculation methods, and large-scale field trials across 12 US states. Josh also explains why degraded below-ground biodiversity is one of the most overlooked risks in modern forestry and long-term forest investment.Josh shares early evidence showing up to 30 percent gains in productivity, outlines Funga’s carbon removal business model, and describes how their 30-year lease structure works for landowners. We end with a discussion about what high-profile carbon removal buyers such as Netflix may signal for the future of regenerative forestry and nature-based climate solutions.After a harvest, we see about a 75% reduction in below-ground biodiversity in these pine systems" ... “What we’re targeting—and seeing—is approximately a 30% lift in productivity over time from restoring the microbiome. Chapters00:00] Intro and welcome [00:19] Meet Josh Parrish, Chief Growth Officer at Funga [00:32] Favourite tree: the white oak [02:01] Josh’s background and journey to Funga [04:16] What is the forest soil microbiome? [04:42] Mycorrhizal fungi explained [07:11] Why below-ground biodiversity matters [08:22] Why nobody talks about soil health [09:48] Technology behind Funga’s approach [11:00] What happens to forest soils after harvest [14:14] Risks of a degraded microbiome [16:19] How landowners can assess soil health [17:25] How Funga inoculates seedlings [18:25] The nursery partnership and process [21:10] How prescriptions for inoculation are created [23:11] How to identify inoculated roots [24:02] Control vs. inoculated seedlings [27:00] Early results and productivity gains [29:45] Restoration vs synthetic inputs [30:19] Funga’s business model [31:56] The 30-year carbon lease [33:02] Carbon methodology and enhanced sequestration [37:02] Partnership with Netflix [40:02] Scaling awareness with landowners [41:32] What’s next for Funga [43:31] Advice for new forest investors [44:36] ClosingProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter sign-upAnton Timpers (LinkedIn)FMOToday on Forest Invest, I am joined by Anton Timpers, Manager of Agriculture, Food and Forestry at FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank.Anton explains how FMO approaches forestry as part of its wider agribusiness and sustainable land-use strategy. We discuss how the bank invests across the full forestry life cycle, from early-stage plantation projects to mature industrial forestry in emerging markets. Anton also outlines why FMO continues to support sustainable plantation forestry as a cornerstone of the future bio-based economy.We explore the role of blended finance and concessional capital in crowding in private investment, and how development finance institutions can help reduce risk in frontier and emerging markets. Anton highlights the environmental and social safeguards FMO applies to avoid deforestation, ensure certification, and prevent greenwashing in forestry projects.Anton also shares FMO’s ambition to invest up to 1 billion euros in forestry and sustainable land use by 2030. We talk about the challenge of finding truly bankable forestry projects in fragmented markets across Latin America, Africa and Asia, and what potential investees need to have in place before approaching a development finance institution like FMO.We are convinced about the opportunities in emerging markets, and we hope that with global supply shifting, people will consider these locations more seriously. Chapters [00:23] Meet today’s guest: Anton Timpers (FMO) [00:34] Favourite tree [01:02] Anton’s background and intro to FMO [02:05] Building FMO’s forestry focus [02:33] What makes FMO’s approach unique [03:58] Investing across the asset maturity spectrum [04:45] Co-investors and partners [06:03] Appetite from commercial investors [06:32] Plantation forestry vs natural forests [08:20] Conservation, restoration and carbon risks [10:13] Safeguards, certification and due diligence [11:29] Why forestry moved into the agri team [13:04] Standards, safeguards and risk frameworks [14:26] FMO’s €1 billion forestry goal [15:53] Main obstacles and fragmented markets [17:49] Industrial demand and medium-sized enterprises [20:01] Illegal logging and market realities [21:47] Small global community of forestry investors [23:21] What potential investees should know [25:14] What to prepare before approaching FMO [27:07] Direct equity vs fund-led co-investments [27:50] COP discussions, pledges and Brazil focus [29:39] Carbon credits, accounting and market gaps [31:03] Positive momentum from COP [32:06] Geographic focus: LatAm, Africa, Asia [33:29] Concessional capital and early-stage funding [35:36] How to approach FMO with an opportunity [36:00] Final reflections [36:11] Actionable advice for first-time forest investorsProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives Nature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupTāmata HauhāBlair Jamieson on LinkedInWe’ve proven that it works — that you can invest in Māori land, generate real returns, and create meaningful change.In today’s episode, I’m joined by Blair Jamieson, CEO and Co-Founder of Tāmata Hauhā, a New Zealand–based company leading the way in Māori land investment, carbon forestry, and sustainable land-use transformation. Blair shares how his background in government shaped the creation of this mission-driven organisation, which helps Indigenous Māori landowners unlock economic opportunities by developing under-utilised land into long-term, intergenerational assets that generate both social impact and financial returns.We explore the realities and complexities of Māori land ownership and why building trust requires what Blair calls a “thousand cups of tea” approach — patient, relationship-centred engagement grounded in cultural respect. Blair explains how Tāmata Hauhā blends cultural integrity with commercial pragmatism, collaborating with more than 70 Indigenous groups to establish forests that deliver economic, community, climate, and biodiversity benefits.Blair also breaks down New Zealand’s Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS), offering rare insights into how this compliance-based carbon market provides credibility, transparency, and liquidity unmatched by most voluntary carbon systems. We discuss the company’s investment model, expected returns, and its expansion into the Chatham Islands, where carbon forestry is reshaping remote communities and supporting nature-based climate solutions.Chapters00:00 – Welcome & Introduction00:23 – Meet Blair Jamieson & Tāmata Hauhā01:21 – What the Company Does02:25 – Blair’s Background in Government03:17 – Forestry as an Economic Enabler for Māori Land04:12 – Working with 70+ Indigenous Groups05:05 – Community Impact & Commercial Returns06:11 – Māori Land Ownership Explained09:39 – The “Thousand Cups of Tea” Approach12:39 – Māori Leadership Within the Company14:29 – History of Radiata & NZ Forestry17:35 – Moving Beyond Pine Monoculture20:06 – Nurse Crops & Native Regeneration22:27 – NZ Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Overview24:30 – How NZU Compliance Markets Work31:51 – Carbon Prices & Market Dynamics33:38 – Investment Model Explained35:26 – Chatham Islands Projects39:35 – Māori vs Moriori: Cultural Context41:48 – Main Risks: Politics, Not Integrity45:12 – What’s Next for Tāmata Hauhā47:17 – Scaling & International Interest47:51 – Final Advice for New Forestry InvestorsProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupGlobal Forest GenerationAcción AndinaFlorent Kaiser (LinkedIn)Earthshot PrizeIn this episode, I’m joined by Florent Kaiser, CEO of Global Forest Generation and co-lead of Acción Andina, winner of the 2023 Earthshot Prize. Florent shares how a grassroots movement born in the Peruvian Andes has evolved into a six-country restoration effort—reviving the world’s highest forests by combining Indigenous principles of Ayni (reciprocity) and Minka (collective service) with modern science, technology, and climate finance.We explore what authentic community engagement looks like in practice, how to balance trust and expectations in long-term partnerships, and why forest restoration must begin by listening—to people, to landscapes, and to water.Florent also outlines the next phase of Acción Andina’s mission: linking forest restoration and water security to attract new forms of capital, and inviting investors to build relationships rooted in dignity, co-ownership, and respect.Seeing tens of thousands of people planting trees together isn’t just ecological restoration — it’s an act of hope. It reminds us that working with nature unites us beyond economics or politics.Chapters[00:00] Welcome & introduction – Shauna Matkovich and Florent Kaiser (Global Forest Generation / Acción Andina) [01:00] From childhood curiosity to creating a global forest movement [03:00] Founding Acción Andina and Global Forest Generation [07:30] How Indigenous principles of Ayni and Minka guide restoration [12:30] What real community leadership and engagement look like [17:00] Winning the Earthshot Prize and what it means for restoration [21:30] Building trust and managing expectations with local partners [33:00] Linking forest restoration with water security and long-term finance [49:00] Blending ancient wisdom with modern tools and innovation [54:00] Advice for investors: visit, listen, and invest in relationshipsProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupThe Carbon ParadoxTerra Impact VenturesRenat HeubergerRenat Heuberger, CEO of Terra Impact Ventures and author of The Carbon Paradox, joins host Shauna Matkovich to explore why the forest carbon market is both vital and fiercely debated. He unpacks key paradoxes — from the “baseline” paradox that rewards past deforestation to the “leakage,” “control,” and “transparency” paradoxes that trap project developers between local realities, investor demands, and media scrutiny.Heuberger reflects on his exit from South Pole, the damage caused by polarised climate debates, and why scrapping REDD+ would mean abandoning the only proven tool to protect forests still disappearing today. Through his fiction-based narrative, he aims to reach readers outside the carbon bubble — including his 80-year-old mother — and believes the next wave of forest-climate leadership will come from students and founders ready to reshape the story.His message to investors: now is the moment to “buy the dip” in forest carbon — for those patient enough to ride out the noise.That’s already the first paradox we describe, right? Is it ethically correct to put a price on nature, to call forests an asset? … At the same time, if you are not giving a price to nature, then in a way its price is zero. And that’s already the first fundamental debate which has been going on in carbon markets for several years0:00 Intro – Welcome to Forest Invest0:19 Guest intro – Renat Heuberger, Terra Impact Ventures & The Carbon Paradox1:18 Origins – First encounters with deforestation in Indonesia2:25 Building South Pole and early carbon-market journey4:43 The first paradox – Putting a price on nature6:11 Why write a fiction-based book about carbon markets7:42 Writing for readers outside the climate bubble9:40 The power of storytelling over white papers10:40 Key paradoxes – Baseline, Leakage, Community16:00 The Control Paradox – Who really decides how forest funds are used22:31 The Ideologists Paradox – Attacks from left and right25:19 The Transparency Paradox – When openness invites criticism27:14 Meet the protagonists – Three students on a climate mission29:25 Reconciling forests as moral duty vs market asset33:04 New ideas – Pricing nature, not just carbon35:17 Political cycles, slow progress, and REDD+ lessons37:24 Rebirth of the Dream – Why narrative change matters39:30 Raising a questioning generation41:34 Leaving South Pole – What really happened45:25 Silver linings and new beginnings47:03 Who should read The Carbon Paradox – Greta Thunberg & President Prabowo49:50 Message to project developers – Hang in there51:23 Investor takeaway – “Buy the dip” in forest carbon53:00 Where to find the book & Renat’s workFounding Director/Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer/Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ForestLink newsletter signupREDD++ Business InitiativeTreeviveIn this episode, Shauna Matkovich speaks with Michel Schuurman, Director of Business Development at TreeVive and Chair of the REDD+ Business Initiative, about the slowdown in corporate demand for avoided deforestation credits and why REDD+ remains the most scalable, cost-effective way to protect tropical forests. Drawing on two decades in sustainability and climate finance, Michel explains how reputational risks and investment barriers are stalling progress, and why jurisdictional nesting alone won’t move fast enough. He outlines what high-integrity REDD+ looks like — community-driven design, FPIC, shorter MRV cycles, and national alignment — and calls for continued private-sector engagement.His message: don’t wait for perfection — keep REDD+ in the portfolio, or we lose forests faster than finance flows.Ask someone as a citizen if they would protect forests, and they’ll say yes. Ask them as a corporate communications officer if they’d invest in a REDD+ project, and they’ll say maybe — or no. That’s the gap we need to close.Chapters 0:23 Guest introduction – Michel Schuurman, TreeVive & REDD+ Business Initiative 1:26 Michel’s professional journey and path into forest carbon finance 5:15 Major shifts in forest carbon and avoided-deforestation markets 6:25 Role of the private sector vs governments and NGOs in forest protection 8:52 Why carbon remains the key measurable value metric 10:54 Challenges with valuing intact forests and improving REDD+ mechanisms 13:17 Overview of REDD+ Business Initiative report and its aims 17:01 Addressing media criticism and project integrity in REDD+ 19:26 What’s improving in methodologies and MRV tools 19:27 Three biggest financing gaps in forest protection 21:17 Corporate reputational risk and reluctance to engage 22:39 Policy and Article 6 uncertainty as a major barrier 24:33 Market slowdown and optimism for renewed momentum 26:15 What defines a high-integrity REDD+ project design 27:12 Community engagement, FPIC and benefit-sharing models 29:34 Technical integrity: baselines, MRV cycles, permanence and leakage 31:53 Investor profiles suited to REDD+ projects 33:00 Why institutional capital hesitates and the funding-size gap 35:49 Why capital isn’t flowing despite low ticket sizes 37:06 State of impact and philanthropic investment in REDD+ 38:13 Jurisdictional vs private-project approaches and time lags 40:22 How developers can de-risk and protect their projects 41:02 Emerging insurance and policy-risk products 41:40 Blended-finance tools to mobilize private capital 44:13 Final call to action – keep forest protection in portfolios 45:26 Role of media and balanced reporting 48:00 Closing remarks and where to find the REDD+ Business Initiative reportFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Niamh McCarthy, Senior Director of Climate-Related Risk, and Alexandre Köberle, Senior Fellow at Orbitas—an initiative of Climate Advisors. We explore their report Room to Grow: The Economic Case for Forest Restoration in Brazil, showing how climate transitions open new investment pathways in Brazil’s land economy. Orbitas’ scenario analysis quantifies financial risks and opportunities in forestry and agriculture, revealing a $141 billion restoration potential and 369,000 new jobs by 2050. Niamh and Alexandre share where large-scale restoration makes economic sense, how blended finance, green bonds, and carbon markets are evolving, and why local expertise and due diligence are vital for investors in Brazil.QuoteWhat’s exciting about restoration in Brazil is that it represents an investment opportunity that’s both profitable and a genuine climate solution. - NiamhBrazil could actually become a net negative emissions country, exporting negative emissions to the rest of the world — that’s how large the potential for carbon sequestration is. - AlexandreUseful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signuporbitas.orgChapters[2:42] What Orbitas does — assessing climate-related risks and opportunities[6:21] Scenario analysis and transition risk explained[7:23] Using TCFD framework and standard terminology[9:22] Brazil report — “Room to Grow: The Economic Case for Forest Restoration”[10:08] Methodology and headline findings[11:27] Agricultural drivers and degraded pasturelands[12:23] Profitability and financing mechanisms[13:37] Political will and policy alignment in Brazil[14:43] Surprises and confirmations in the analysis[17:01] Why focus on Brazil versus other countries[19:15] Regional focus — where restoration makes most sense[21:19] Importance of the Amazon and Cerrado ecosystems[23:10] Hydrological and climate resilience links[26:14] Investment risk, transparency, and blended finance[30:35] Restoration archetypes and financing mechanisms[33:39] Emerging trends — agroforestry and new markets[35:35] Carbon markets, ETS, and biodiversity credits[39:12] How climate transitions affect profitability[42:29] Market proximity and economic feasibility[43:00] What investors should ask before investing[45:15] Importance of due diligence and local partnerships[46:10] Calls to action for government and corporations[48:49] Policy implementation and land governance challenges[50:30] Role of other stakeholders and communities[51:34] Ensuring fair distribution of returns[52:22] Corporate responsibility and supply chain influence[54:18] Profitability even without strong transitions[55:06] Final advice for new forest investors[57:10] Building trust and long-term partnerships[57:38] Closing thoughts and where to learn moreProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak to Jen Stebbing, a communications strategist working at the intersection of climate, nature, and markets. Jen shares her key takeaways from New York Climate Week, where forests are increasingly being seen as essential infrastructure rather than “nice-to-haves.” We discuss the emerging portfolio approach to forest finance—integrating conservation, restoration, improved management, and avoided deforestation—to help investors and policymakers see the full picture. Jen also shares insights on Brazil’s leadership through the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), the role of blended finance and philanthropy in catalyzing capital, and the importance of risk-sharing models that protect communities. She encourages listeners to explore the Forest Finance Roadmap as a key resource for developing new forest investment strategies.“I’m going to come back to my infrastructure point. So see forests as an essential, durable infrastructure and think about the portfolio — conservation, restoration, jurisdiction, sustainable forestry, all of these things together. And remembering that the biggest risk isn’t reversals, it’s delay. So the more you step in, the more value you have secure.” Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupJen StebbingJen Stebbing (LinkedIn)TFFF - Tropical Forest Forever FacilityGeneration Restoration: How to Fix Our Relationship Crisis with Mother Nature (book)HIFOR - A single investment, with multiple benefitsChapters[0:00] Welcome and introduction[0:21] Meet Jen Stebbing[2:00] Highlights from New York Climate Week[5:00] Forests as essential infrastructure[8:46] The portfolio approach to forest finance[11:41] Indigenous leadership and equity[13:42] Brazil’s TFFF and the Forest Finance Roadmap[18:13] Risk-sharing and community protection[21:47] Blended finance and the Restoration Generation[29:05] Overcoming capital-raising challenges[33:03] Optimism and collaboration in climate finance[34:10] Final advice for forest investorsProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Shauna is interviewed by Matthew Kristoff of the Your Forest Podcast. In this conversation, they talk about what it means to invest in forests today – starting with the basics. Can individuals invest in forests? What is the traditional timberland investment model, and why doesn't it fit in most of Canada? Shauna shares insights on how timber remains a key driver of forest investment returns, but that new investors are approaching the asset class as part of a broader strategy that also values biodiversity, carbon, and cultural outcomes. They explore how investors can begin to account for forest benefits that have historically been valued existentially rather than financially, from climate resilience to community well-being. The discussion touches on practical pathways for finance—such as Indigenous partnerships, accessing secondary markets like biomass for bioenergy, and fire risk mitigation—that could open new pathways for forest investment in Canada.QuoteTimber is still the backbone of returns, but today it has to be part of a broader strategy that values biodiversity, carbon, and cultural outcomes.Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupYour Forest PodcastChapters[00:11] Introduction by Shauna – framing forest investment basics[02:32] Matthew opens – news about the podcast winding down[04:55] Introducing guest Shauna Matkovich and The Forest Link[15:56] Putting a value on biodiversity and carbon[22:06] How timberland investment began and pension fund role[29:42] Beyond carbon credits – biodiversity and risk reduction strategies[33:44] Partnerships and aligning different capital objectives[37:12] Timber, biodiversity, and investor–manager roles[42:03] KPIs and impact pathways for investors[44:28] Linking financial and ecological objectives[52:58] Public vs private land investment opportunities[01:17:51] Spectrum of investors – safe returns vs impact[01:24:00] How forest investment might change management in 30–50 years[01:31:44] Final reflections – facilitators of change and investor roles[01:33:01] Closing thanks and outroProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Virginia Dale, Research Professor at the University of Tennessee, about forest bioenergy, biomass energy, and sustainable forest management. We explore how post-harvest waste, sawdust, and rejected logs can be transformed into biomass pellets that generate renewable energy while lowering wildfire and insect risks. Virginia explains why the carbon footprint of bioenergy depends on the carbon cycle, landscape scale, and timeframe. We also discuss bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), certification standards, and transparent monitoring to strengthen trust. The conversation highlights economic opportunities for rural communities, the challenges of inland transport, and the limits of bioenergy when it fails to meet sustainability goals.QuoteOpportunities for bio-energy include reducing wildfire and insect risks, supporting renewable energy markets, and strengthening regional economies.Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupDr. Virginia Dale's University of Tennessee profileChapters[00:00] Introduction and welcome [00:36] Virginia Dale’s favourite tree and climate change insights [01:21] Academic background and path to mathematical ecology [02:26] Why bioenergy is central to her work [03:01] Bioenergy basics and the value chain from forest to grid [05:24] Forest residues, sawdust, and rejected logs explained [06:03] The controversy around bioenergy and carbon accounting [09:21] Species protection, biodiversity, and sustainable forestry practices [11:14] Perceptions, policy gaps, and the reputation of bioenergy [12:30] Where critics have valid concerns and the role of monitoring [14:00] Rural jobs, pellet mills, and environmental justice issues [15:47] Climate benefits, carbon cycle, and wildfire risk reduction [19:51] Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) [20:53] Social and economic impacts for local communities [23:37] Forest owners, smallholders, and certification challenges [27:00] The issue of unloved wood and the role of sustainable aviation fuel [30:15] Opportunities for bioenergy in sustainable forest management [31:56] Indirect land use change and food security concerns [34:39] The role of ecological models in decision-making [35:15] Investor perspective: bioenergy as part of forest investment [37:56] Constraints facing the bioenergy industry [40:44] Final advice for new forest investors [41:40] Where to find Virginia Dale’s research [42:35] Closing remarks and outroProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danan Margason, Founder & CEO of Aarden AI, joins me in conversation to explain how their platform helps Timberland Investment Management Organizations (TIMOs) and natural capital managers find the highest and best use of land. From geospatial AI and NPV/IRR scenarios to conservation, carbon, solar, and data centers, we explore where it works best, where it’s less effective, and why better data boosts liquidity and attracts new capital to forests. Danan shares how integrating biodiversity and community indicators can inform trade-offs and what he’s seeing with early beta clients ahead of Aarden’s launch this autumn.Quote“Properties with multiple use cases will command premium prices as more buyers recognize value streams beyond timber.”“Bringing more data and transparency to land will increase liquidity, drive better financial returns, and improve sustainability outcomes.”Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupAarden AIChapters [1:17] Danan’s journey – from law, real estate & tech to forestry and carbon credits [3:34] Founding story – why landowners need better tools for highest and best use [4:15] Lifecycle of land investments – strategy, acquisition, management, exit [5:41] How Aarden supports TIMOs & institutional capital [6:29] Alternative uses – carbon credits, conservation, data centers, even space launchpads [8:03] Valuation methods – geospatial data, historical comps, forward NPV/IRR [10:29] Platform limits – rigid fund structures vs flexible mandates [12:13] Blending timber, solar, and sustainability goals [13:19] Modeling biodiversity & carbon credits with scenario planning [15:25] Data inputs – species indexes, water quality, jobs, and more [16:55] Technology shift – AI enabling richer, faster land insights [17:44] Breaking silos – moving beyond single-use forestry models [21:05] Focus on the U.S. market – early days, next Canada, then global [22:12] Platform demo – natural language map queries & scenario testing [23:53] Opportunity scoring – blending multiple land-use returns [25:12] Innovations – talking to maps and valuation modeling [26:43] Scaling regionally – from parcels to counties to states [28:33] Future feature – scraping public land listings for deal flow [30:39] Forestry software gap – why land lags other asset classes [33:24] Ideal use cases – institutional landowners, portfolio optimization [34:52] Less useful – narrow timber-only mandates or very small owners [35:24] Looking ahead – how tools like Aarden could transform forestry [39:05] Advice for new forest investors – financial + environmental returns [40:52] Where to learn more – Aarden.ai, climate week, CanopyProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Schmitt, Director of Sales & Marketing at Air Burners, explains how air curtain burners provide a safer, low-emission alternative to slash burning and wood chipping. We cover innovations like the BurnBoss and CharBoss, which help the US Forest Service and landowners turn forest residues into biochar, cut wildfire risk, and even generate on-site electricity. Michael shares case studies from wildfire recovery, disaster zones, and private forestry, showing how this technology creates new value streams and supports sustainable forest management.Quote"The air curtain traps smoke particles for fractions of a second, causing them to reburn. That secondary burn reduces the smoke so much that it often just looks like heat waves leaving the firebox."Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupAir BurnersChapters[0:12] Welcome and guest introduction[0:32] Michael’s favourite tree[1:08] What Air Burners does[2:25] Who uses air curtain burners[3:02] Work with US Forest Service[3:37] Development of the BurnBoss[5:17] From BurnBoss to CharBoss[6:00] How the technology works[7:48] Types of wood waste handled[9:19] Emissions and comparisons[12:17] Drivers behind biomass reduction[14:21] On-site power generation with BioCharger[16:42] Emissions testing and regulation[17:20] Transportation and cost savings[19:00] Case study: vineyard owner in California[20:50] Air Burner Certified Contractors (ACCs)[21:05] Biochar benefits and crop results[24:03] Biochar and carbon credits[25:49] Logistics and market access for biochar[27:38] Air Burners in wildfire-prone regions[31:07] Limitations and site requirements[33:29] Case study: PG&E wildfire mitigation[36:23] Air Burners in disaster recovery[38:08] Advice for new forest investors[39:51] Where to learn more about Air Burners[40:45] Closing remarksProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Warren Erses, Founder and Partner, and Megha Chakraborty, Research Analyst at CE Events and Media. Together, we dive into their Global Biodiversity Report: Market Dynamics – The Push & Pull of Supply & Demand and unpack the fast-evolving world of biodiversity markets.Warren explains how forest investment is shifting in response to corporate net-zero commitments, regulatory changes, and new financing mechanisms. Megha draws on insights from more than 80 interviews across both the supply and demand sides of the market, sharing what she uncovered.We also examine the disconnect between investors seeking practical, commercially viable entry points and suppliers offering technically robust but often complex solutions. From biodiversity credits and verification standards to on-the-ground case studies in Colombia and New Zealand, this episode shows how clearer communication and collaboration can unlock the capital urgently needed for nature.Quote“Both sides of the market need to learn the language the other side is speaking – without that, investment confidence simply won’t build.” – Warren"During our surveys, 84% of demand-side respondents said they prefer biodiversity credits bundled with carbon credits, while most suppliers favored stand-alone credits. That divergence reflects a deeper mismatch in confidence and familiarity.” – MeghaUseful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupCE Events and MediaChapters[00:24] Guests introduced: Warren Erses and Megha Chakraborty of CE Events & Media  [02:16] Warren on founding CE Events & Media and their mission  [05:18] How forestry and biodiversity finance has evolved since 2015  [07:54] The impact of corporate net-zero commitments and carbon market scrutiny  [09:14] Launching the Global Biodiversity Report: why now  [15:02] Research methodology: literature review, 80+ interviews, surveys  [18:05] Adapting the methodology and building trust with stakeholders  [23:28] Key findings: disconnect between supply and demand in biodiversity markets  [27:57] Bridging the gap through a Q&A-style report  [29:24] The need for education on both sides of biodiversity markets  [34:31] The role of regulation and emerging standards  [35:12] Verification standards and the challenges of measuring biodiversity  [39:02] Technological approaches to biodiversity measurement  [40:47] Who is interested in standalone biodiversity credits?  [42:01] Case studies: Terrazos in Colombia and ECOS in New Zealand  [44:28] Final advice for new forest and biodiversity investors  [45:41] Where to learn more about CE Events & Media  Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Morgan, Managing Director of SFM Agribusiness, a leading forest management operator (timber and carbon projects), joins me to discuss the evolution of Australia’s compliance carbon market. We look at its standards, methodologies, pricing, and the main Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCU) buyers. Andrew shares insights on SFM’s “ActivAcre” model, which partners landowners with institutional investors, and explores how carbon credits are reshaping forestry portfolios.If you'd asked me 3 or 4 years ago, carbon and a carbon strategy weren't even considered by most institutional investors when looking at larger assets. It's now a really important part of the value. Traditionally, it was the land and the tree crop. There's now land, tree crop, and carbon. And it could be forming 20 - 30% of the total valuation.Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupSFM - Plantation Carbon PartnersProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters [0:48] Background & SFM Agribusiness  [2:25] SFM’s Role in Forest Investment Operations  [3:16] Evolution of Carbon Forestry (Australia)  [6:31] Understanding Carbon Project Methodologies (Schedules 1–4)  [8:02] First Carbon Project & Early Learnings  [9:06] The Drivers: Climate & Timber Deficit  [10:22] Land Constraints & Strategic Aggregation Models  [11:27] How the Australian Carbon Market Works  [12:23] Pricing, Credit Types & Market Trends  [13:48] Buyers in the Compliance Carbon Market  [15:20] Compliance vs. Voluntary Markets  [16:22] Strengths & Weaknesses of the Compliance System  [17:50] Challenges with Timelines, Audits & Approval Delays  [20:03] Investor Confidence & Carbon Modeling  [21:05] Market Demand Outlook to 2033  [22:01] Carbon's Emerging Role in Asset Valuation  [23:44] The Active Acre Model: Origins & Design  [26:33] Retail-Focused Landowner Partnerships  [28:56] Land Aggregation Strategy & Regional Development  [30:01] Farmer Engagement & Early Adoption Curve  [30:52] Landowner Concerns: Tenure, Risk & Trust  [32:14] Fire Risk Management & Industry Networks  [33:57] Certification, Biodiversity & AU Plus Potential  [34:39] Flexible Models for Participatory Land Use  [35:26] Investor Perspectives: Risk, Pipeline & Land Use  [38:12] Real Estate Pipeline Management & Land Suitability  [40:49] Evolving Client Base: Emitters & AU Offtake  [42:22] Unlocking Plantation Forestry Potential  [44:36] Emerging Trends in Nature-Based Solutions  [46:36] Communicating the Value of Forest Management  [49:08] Actionable Advice for New Investors  Sound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Tony Pesklevits, Manager of Wildfire Prevention, Cultural and Prescribed Fire at the BC Wildfire Service. In this conversation, we explore how wildfire management in British Columbia (BC) is evolving to reflect a changing climate, forest ecosystems, communities in the wild-urban interface, and the resurgence of Indigenous fire management. Tony shares how fire has always shaped BC’s forests and how reintroducing “good fire” through cultural and prescribed burning is key to resilience. We cover what makes for an effective forest manager from a wildfire risk lens, the importance of collaboration across sectors, and how investors should think about fire. Not as a risk to fear, but as a force to understand and manage.“Fire has been a part of forest ecosystems for as long as photosynthesis has been a part of forest ecosystems. They are two parts of the same cycle.”"Fire is a fact. It’s not a mystical risk. It can be understood and it can be managed. If you remove fire from those ecosystems, you can actually create risk for the asset."Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupWildfire Service, Province of British ColumbiaCultural Burning & Prescribed FireFireSmart BCTony Pesklevits (LinkedIn)Yellow Birch (Betula alleghaniensis)Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Introduction & Guest Welcome[01:05] Tony’s Favorite Tree & Background[03:18] From Conservation to Wildfire Management[04:44] Overview of Tony’s Current Role[05:20] The Role & Mandate of the BC Wildfire Service[07:17] Cultural vs. Prescribed Fire[10:06] Building Partnerships with First Nations[11:02] Monitoring & Measuring Fire Outcomes[13:36] Adaptive Management in Fire Practices[13:56] Community Perceptions & Communication[16:08] The Williams Lake Burn Case Study[17:34] Forest Management Without Fire[20:11] Forest Practices to Reduce Wildfire Risk[22:16] Collaboration with the Forest Industry[24:16] Fire Surveillance Techniques[27:48] Emerging Technologies in Fire Detection[28:17] Funding & Responsibility for Wildfire Response[29:46] Cross-Border & Interagency Cooperation[32:29] Lessons Learned Since 2017[34:07] FireSmart & Community-Level Actions[35:35] The Role of Forest Managers[37:02] Actionable Advice for Forest Investors[40:06] Where to Learn More[41:09] Outro & Closing RemarksSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Alex Logan, CEO and Co-Founder of Cecil, joins me on the Forest Invest podcast. We explore how Cecil is helping bridge the gap between complex nature data sets and real-world applications by addressing a growing challenge in forest investment: accessible, accurate, and actionable nature data. We discuss the importance of understanding the limitations of current data, the need for better “ground-truthing,” and the complexities of localized ecosystems. Alex also shares what the future might hold as biodiversity reporting standards begin to catch up with climate disclosures – and leaves us with one core insight: there’s no silver bullet, only the power of leaning into complexity with the right team.Quote“The most requested data set we get asked for at the moment are the key-protected areas and red list data sets – driven by regulatory pressure around nature risk.”“There's a big missing piece in the world right now, and that’s reliable, global ground-truth data to benchmark and train nature models.”Useful ResourcesCecilAlex Logan (LinkedIn)The ForestLink newsletter signupProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Introduction: Meet Alex Logan, CEO of Cecil  [00:31] What’s Your Favorite Tree?  [01:00] Alex’s Background and Career Journey  [01:46] The Birth of Cecil: From Climate to Nature  [02:57] Why Nature Data Matters  [03:53] The Problem Cecil is Solving  [04:35] How Cecil Has Evolved Over Time  [06:06] Pivoting to a Data-Centric Model  [07:34] What Is Nature Data?  [08:56] Who Uses Cecil’s Platform?  [10:13] Real-World Use Case: Land Banking Group  [11:21] Most Requested Data Sets  [12:50] Data Set Reliability & Curation Challenges  [15:07] Why Context Matters in Data Application  [16:41] The Vision: Smart Data Set Recommendations  [17:33] Questions to Ask Your Nature Data Provider  [19:11] Cost vs. Resolution in Remote Sensing  [20:55] Temporal Coverage and Use Cases  [21:28] What Users Want Most: Accuracy & Trust  [23:27] How to Improve Model Accuracy  [24:19] The Ground Truth Challenge  [26:02] Reducing Costs & Funding Nature Data  [28:39] Advice for Small Forest Landowners  [31:25] Creating an Economy Around Nature Data  [33:01] Making Complex Data Accessible  [34:28] The Role of Intermediaries like Land Banking Group  [36:41] Standard Setting in Nature Disclosures  [39:20] Crystal Ball: The Next 12 Months in Nature Data  [41:23] Final Reflections & Where to Learn More  Sound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Hans Lemm, Director of Acacia Africa Advisors and former CEO of East Africa’s largest forest company. In this conversation, Hans shares lessons from over two decades of leading industrial forestry businesses across the emerging markets of Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Mozambique, and South Sudan. We explore what’s changed and what hasn’t in African forestry, from the growing role of smallholder farmers to the influx of Asian processing investment. Hans offers practical insights on managing operational and reputational risks, outlines investor misconceptions, and explains why inclusive value chains and realistic projections are key to successful forest investment. We also talk about the critical (but often misunderstood) role of carbon finance and the job-creation potential of forest industrialization.QuoteAfrica is generally a good place to grow trees. Trees grow fast here, and there are appealing fundamentals like a growing middle class and urbanization—but it remains a complex operating environment.Despite assumptions, I’ve never seen real problems around political risk or land tenure in my 20+ years of experience across the region. The risks are different than people often think.Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupHans Lemm on LinkedInProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters00:00] Introduction – Meet your host, Shauna Matkovich[00:19] Guest intro – Hans Lemm of Acacia Africa Advisors[01:12] Hans’s journey: 25 years in African forestry[03:08] How Africa’s forest sector has changed – and what hasn’t[04:12] More than just planting: The need for downstream investment[05:14] The role of smallholder tree farmers[06:27] What happens when industrial capacity lags behind wood supply?[07:16] Rise of Asian investors and local processing[08:27] Domestic markets: Still largely informal[09:37] What still needs to change: Standards, logistics & regulation[11:11] Ingredients for a sustainable forestry business[13:01] Real vs. perceived investment risks[15:06] Taxation and technical missteps – hidden threats[17:06] Local knowledge matters – even within small regions[18:02] Forex, investor fatigue & reputational concerns[19:09] Aligning operators and investors for long-term success[21:52] Reporting pressure in emerging markets[24:08] The role of DFIs in African forestry[26:32] Key market drivers: Trade with Asia, local manufacturing[28:14] Carbon finance: Tool or trap?[30:07] Forestry as a job engine and community license to operate[33:01] Field story: The cobra in Uganda[33:19] Mentorship and career-defining moments[34:54] Evacuation in South Sudan – and the best beer ever[37:04] What’s next for Hans Lemm[38:00] Final advice to investors: Be realistic[38:41] Where to find Hans Lemm online[39:00] Outro – Thanks from Shauna MatkovichSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alessandro Materni, Managing Partner at FLS Forestry Linked Securities, joins me on The Forest Investment Podcast. Today, we explore how securitization can revolutionize forest investment in the Global South, making it more accessible to institutional investors. Alessandro breaks down the mechanics of forestry-backed securities, the unique advantages of reforestation in Paraguay, and the safeguards needed to mitigate ESG and political risks. We also discuss FLS's mission-driven strategy, seeking long-term investor returns with biodiversity, climate, and social impact goals. If you're interested in learning alternative approaches to structuring finance in a forest investment, this episode offers great lessons.QuoteWe try to shield assets from political risk and local idiosyncrasies as much as possible, to make them securitizable, and ultimately investable.Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupAlessandro Matterni LinkedInFLS Forestry Linked SecuritiesFLS on LinkedInStrawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) & Lapacho (Handroanthus impetiginosus)Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Introduction to Forest Invest with Shauna Matkovich[00:21] Meet the Guest: Alessandro Materni of FLS[00:35] Alessandro’s Favorite Trees: Strawberry Tree & Lapacho[02:05] Introduction to Alessandro and FLS Forestry Linked Securities[04:45] Explaining Securitization in Forestry Terms[07:18] Rating Agencies & Forestry Assets[08:46] Scale of Institutional Forestry Investment[10:06] How FLS Aims to Expand Forestry Markets[12:15] Addressing Political Risk in Emerging Markets[13:49] Why Paraguay? Land, Governance, and Risk Mitigation[17:03] Target Wood Markets in Paraguay[18:35] ESG, Carbon Credits, and Conservation Commitments[21:20] Local Community Engagement and Biodiversity Practices[23:39] Reforestation vs. Mature Asset Strategy[24:39] Life Cycle of Forest Investment and Securitization Timing[27:02] Exit Options and Evergreen Structure[29:39] Investor Profiles and Suitability[32:12] Is This Strategy Right for Forestry Newcomers?[34:12] Non-Negotiable ESG Commitments[36:26] Why Securitization Is Less Common in Developed Markets[38:03] Other Potential Jurisdictions Beyond Paraguay[41:05] Carbon Markets and the Bigger Picture[45:12] Final Advice for New Forest Investors[46:17] Where to Learn More About FLS[47:23] Closing Remarks from ShaunaSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Olly Hughes, Managing Director of Forestry, and David Gardner, Chief Investment Officer for Forestry at Gresham House. In this discussion, we explore how Gresham House builds global forestry portfolios that incorporate both financial and climate-related considerations. Olly explains why timberland offers stable, inflation-linked returns and outlines how it fits into the “natural capital” asset class, where sustainable timber, carbon credits, and biodiversity gains converge. David adds rich insight into long-rotation conifer crops and how afforestation and compliance carbon markets (especially in Australia and New Zealand) can support early cash flow. We delve into the significance of establishing KPIs for biodiversity and why experiencing a forest firsthand can be the most effective education for new investors.Quote“We believe global timber demand will nearly triple over the next 30 years, so we must plant trees both for nature-based reasons and for timber supply.” – Olly Hughes“Certification is just the starting point—we manage to global standards and then layer on sustainability objectives to meet Article 9 criteria.” – David GardnerUseful ResourcesGresham HouseOlly Hughes (LinkedIn)David Gardner (LinkedIn)The ForestLink newsletter signupFavorite trees: Walnut (Juglans regia) & Ginkgo BilobaProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Intro & Welcome[00:35] Favorite Trees[01:19] Introductions & Gresham House Overview[04:19] Why Forestry? Key Investment Benefits[08:52] Case Study: Forestry Resilience During Recession[10:47] Climate Goals & Misconceptions[15:37] Policy Regulations & Market Impact[18:08] Best Geographies Where Climate and Returns Align[22:33] Portfolio Strategy – Mixing New and Mature Assets.[24:10] Carbon Markets 101[27:02] Timber vs. Carbon Returns[29:01] Nature & Biodiversity Investing[36:59] Managing Forests & Funds, Sustainability Meets Scalability.[39:02] Global Standards for Nature and Carbon[39:26] Inspiration & Frustration[42:00] Final Advice[43:13] Closing & Contact InfoSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Charlotte Kaiser, Head of Impact Finance, and Esben Brandi, Head of Business Development at BTG Pactual Timberland Investment Group (TIG). In this episode, we explore how TIG is collaborating with Conservation International and The Nature Conservancy to achieve ambitious climate and biodiversity outcomes. We discuss the operational integration of production forestry and restoration components in Latin America, boosting forest resilience through tweaks in management across U.S.-based assets, and how trusted environmental collaborators help address reputational concerns while building investor confidence. Charlotte and Esben share insights into evolving investor expectations, the role of science-based planning, and how these structured NGO engagements support both performance and purpose across forest landscapes.Quotes"Each institution needs to make the other partner’s goals and challenges their own so that we can become a single team working toward a shared set of outcomes.” - Charlotte“It’s a very healthy and worthwhile process to sit in the same room and work through different objectives to maximize both impact and financial success.” - EsbenUseful ResourcesBTG Pactual Timberland Investment GroupCharlotte Kaiser (LinkedIn)Esben Brandi (LinkedIn)BTG Pactual Timberland Investment GroupThe ForestLink newsletter signupProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted Creatives[00:14] Welcome and introduction to the guests[00:39] Favorite trees of Charlotte and Esben[01:56] Quick bios and roles at TIG[03:45] Introduction to TIG and its client base[05:35] Notable corporate collaborations, including Apple[06:58] Why TIG collaborates with environmental NGOs[08:10] Roles of The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International[10:18] Investor sentiment and current demand[11:42] Differences in engagement models: North America vs Latin America[13:36] Asset-level monitoring and biodiversity interventions[17:14] Land sparing strategy and integration of restoration[18:08] Specific impact targets for restoration and carbon[19:32] Governance structures with NGO partners[22:15] Balancing NGO goals with investor needs[26:46] Navigating trade-offs and alignment of objectives[30:10] External stakeholder feedback and carbon buyers' interests[33:33] Key results: carbon deals, restoration milestones, endangered species sightings[36:23] Restoration R&D in the Cerrado biome[37:58] Key lessons from cross-sector collaboration[38:35] What’s next for TIG[40:36] Actionable advice for new forest investors[42:10] Where to learn more about TIG’s workSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Geoffrey Seeto, Senior Managing Director and Head of Emerging Markets at New Forests, to discuss the Future Forest Innovations Fund — a global, open-ended forestry vehicle co-developed with Oji Holdings. Geoffrey explains how the Fund aims to meet climate targets through a high-integrity insetting strategy and achieve full FSC certification across its portfolio. We explore how the open-ended structure supports long-term forest stewardship and enables net carbon sequestration under the GHG Protocol and steady timber returns. Geoffrey also shares how corporate capital is driving forest expansion in emerging markets and reshaping the future of forest finance.Quote"An open-ended structure allows us to steward forests into perpetuity, which is critical for both carbon permanence and long-term timber value creation."Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupGeoffrey Seeto on LinkedInNews: New Forests partners with Oji Holdings to establish a forestry fund to help meet 2030 goalsFavorite tree: EucalyptusProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Welcome & Guest Introduction[00:35] Geoffrey's Favorite Tree[01:25] Geoffrey’s Role at New Forests[02:15] Emerging Markets vs. Developed Markets[03:55] Positive Impact & Mixed Landscape Approach[05:12] Introduction to the Future Forest Innovation Fund (FFI)[05:34] Origins of the OG Partnership[06:58] High Sustainability Standards & FSC Certification[07:53] OG's 2030 Climate Goals & Role of New Forests[08:51] Vertical Integration & Local Economic Impact[10:13] Defining “Innovation” in FFI[11:18] Permanent Capital Vehicle Explained[12:56] The Case for Investing in Emerging Markets[13:25] Why Open-Ended Funds Work for Forestry[15:34] Institutional Appeal & Long-Term Stewardship[17:23] African Fund & Perpetual Management[18:44] Building a Global Forestry Portfolio[22:01] Regional Allocation Breakdown[23:38] Why Latin America is Next[25:00] Asset Characteristics: Species, Maturity & Market Access[28:03] Certification: FSC, Carbon Standards, and SFDR[30:20] Carbon Insetting vs. Offsetting[32:28] OG’s Role & Future Investors[35:30] Corporate vs. Institutional Investors[38:35] Voluntary Carbon Markets & Paris Targets[40:25] Meeting Different Investor Needs[41:36] Lessons from Infrastructure & Forestry Growth[43:42] Final Advice for New Investors[47:25] Where to Learn More[48:00] Closing RemarksSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I am joined by Darius Sarshar, Principal at SLM Partners. In this episode, Darius makes a compelling case for Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) as a regenerative, climate-resilient alternative to clear-fell forest management models. We explore when CCF makes sense and how it delivers both strong financial returns and meaningful ecological benefits, boosting IRRs, enhancing biodiversity, and generating carbon credits. By maintaining a permanent forest canopy, CCF enhances resilience to storms, drought, and pests, while fostering natural regeneration. From a financial perspective, it evens out and brings forward timber revenues, generating earlier, steadier cash flows. This episode is essential for investors seeking a smart, nature-aligned approach to timberland.Quote"Continuous cover forestry is about managing complexity—with biodiversity, resilience, and timber income all improving over time. It’s not just sustainable—it’s sensible."Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupSLM PartnersWhite Paper: Investing in Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) in EuropeDarius Sarshar on LinkedInFavorite tree: Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesChapters[00:00] Welcome & Introduction[00:31] Darius’ Favorite Tree: Sitka Spruce[01:44] Darius’ Career Journey & About SLM Partners[04:11] Emerging vs. Core Markets: Lessons from the Tropics[05:24] Why Europe Is Underrepresented in Forest Investment[08:12] Challenges & Opportunities in European Forestry[11:08] Intro to Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF)[13:39] Where is CCF Applicable? Site & Species Suitability[16:04] Policy, Regulation & Societal Drivers for CCF[18:01] Why SLM Adopted CCF: Research & Evidence[19:52] Financial Performance: CCF vs. Clearfell[23:54] Monocultures to Mixed Forests: The Transition Strategy[25:40] Carbon Benefits & Carbon Credit Eligibility[28:55] Timber + Carbon Strategy: Is the Regime Different?[30:42] Active Management Benefits: Timber, Carbon & Biodiversity[33:14] Social Impact of CCF: Jobs, Communities, and Recreation[35:44] Addressing Concerns: Disturbance & Soil Compaction[39:07] Investor Education: Risk, Data & Demand for Authenticity[42:14] Final Reflections & The Growing CCF Movement[44:33] Darius’ Actionable Advice to New Forest Investors[45:28] Closing & Next Episode TeaserSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I’m joined by Marcos Wichert, Vice President, Plantation Forest and Sustainability Management at Stora Enso. Marcos shares his international journey across Brazil, China, New Zealand, and Finland, exploring how sustainable forestry must adapt to local regulations, ecosystems, and social expectations. We delve into the role of catchment-based planning, biodiversity KPIs, and the dos and don'ts of Eucalyptus. From certification standards to boardroom sustainability strategy, Marcos offers practical insights for investors looking to align profitability with climate and nature goals.Quote“Sustainable forestry means managing commercial forests at a landscape level, with the catchment area as the key management unit to monitor and guide the impacts of forestry activities.”Harvest less than the forest grows each year, and that’s a basic principle of sustainable forestry."Useful ResourcesThe ForestLink newsletter signupMarcos on LinkedInIndicators - Biodiversity | Stora EnsoBiodiversity indicators for plantations - Biodiversity | Stora EnsoSpecies Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metricInvestor News: Stora Enso partners with IUCN to advance positive impacts on biodiversityProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTime Stamps/Chapters[00:00] Introduction  [01:00] Marcos' Career Journey  [03:45] What is Sustainable Forestry?  [05:20] Global Examples of Sustainable Practices  [09:10] Plantation vs. Natural Forest Management  [12:00] Key Considerations for Forest Investors  [15:30] The Truth About Eucalyptus  [21:30] Forest Management Across Spatial and Temporal Scales  [28:30] Sustainability in the Boardroom  [31:30] Nature-Positive Commitments by Large Companies  [33:40] Sustainability for Public Market Investors  [36:20] Final Reflections and Where to Learn MoreSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode flips the usual format. Instead of hosting, I’m the one being interviewed by Margaret Morales during a live webinar, which is now being shared with you in this special release. We dive into the evolving landscape of forest investment, where carbon and timber strategies increasingly overlap with climate and impact goals. I share what I’ve learned from advising asset managers and project developers across geographies: from return expectations and capital stacks to risk mitigation and community engagement. If you're navigating nature-based solutions and forest finance, this conversation is full of practical insights.Quote"If you're not talking about risk early on, that’s a red flag. Every project has risk—it’s how you acknowledge and plan for it that matters."Useful resourcesMargaret Morales on LinkedInTrellis (the company where Margaret is a director)Alexandra Holmlund (Biodiversity credit methodologies)The ForestLink newsletter signupProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTime Stamps[2:07] Shauna’s background – from forester to investment professional[4:11] Types of clients Shawna works with (traditional vs. new investors)[6:14] Return expectations in forest investments[7:38] Multi-revenue stream projects – timber + carbon[10:11] Carbon as a “sweetener” in early-stage projects[12:20] Timeline expectations – 10 to 15 years typical hold period[13:50] Explaining greenfield vs. brownfield forest projects[16:57] Growing interest from new climate-focused investors[18:47] Geographic trends in forest investments[20:40] Afforestation projects: high impact, high capital need[21:22] How developers can solve early-stage funding gaps[25:45] Typical capital stack in forest funds[27:40] Blended finance and concessional capital in forest investment[30:00] Why debt is rare in early forest projects[31:33] Biodiversity credits – demand, challenges & local approaches[34:44] Sustainable community credits & the role of community[36:49] What investors want to see on community engagement[37:09] Pure carbon funds – challenges and exit strategy concerns[40:53] Biodiversity credit methodologies (e.g. Alexandra Holmlund's work)[42:23] Carbon price projections – conservative modeling adviceSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Tracy Buran Evens, Principal of TimberLink, who shares insights from a recent survey capturing the biggest challenges facing institutional Timberland investors today. We unpack the top themes that emerged from both asset managers and investors—return expectations, macroeconomic pressures, ESG obligations, strategy, and valuation concerns. Tracy explains why there’s a disconnect between stumpage prices and timberland valuation, the flood of new climate-focused capital, and how different fund structures are suiting different investor types. Whether you’re new to forest investing or a seasoned pro, this episode offers a reality check and a roadmap for navigating today’s Timberland landscape.Quote“This is really a sea change—almost $10 billion in new capital has been committed to timberland, much of it targeting natural capital and climate-based solutions.”Useful ResourcesTimberlinkTracy’s email: [email protected] on LinkedInFavorite tree: Ginkgo Biloba treeProduction TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTime Stamps01:03Overview of Timber Link02:58Recent survey for investors and TIMO’s - what is the biggest challenge you face with your timberland portfolio?09:36Five key themes in responses11:05Do TIMO’s have insight into clients’ struggles?12:50Any follow-up questions?13:49Are timberland allocations decreasing, increasing, or staying the same?18:16Clarification about the seeming discrepancy between investor concerns about returns and new investors and capital who seek new assets?22:15The challenge of the difference between timberland valuation and timber prices - is the market saturated or is the climate spin creating new assets?26:02Consolidation in smaller plots?27:06How does this tie into the challenge of valuations?29:47What caveats should new investors consider, and how can these concerns be addressed?31:55ESG concerns (incl. carbon credits and biodiversity calculations and reporting)37:40Thoughts on approaches to investing in forests40:33Evergreen vs. closed-end structures?42:58Concerns around uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment 44:45Actionable advice to new investors45:37Contact detailsSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

DISCLAIMERForest Climate Fund is currently closed and not available for investment in all regions.Today, I’m joined by Eric Cooperström, Managing Director, Impact Investing & Natural Climate Solutions at Manulife Investment Management (Manulife IM). In this conversation, we explore Manulife IM’s Forest Climate Fund, examining its strategy characteristics and how it combines both timberland and carbon market return drivers at the portfolio level, and in some cases, at the asset level. We cover the diverse mix of investor types and how climate benefits are structured into the Fund. We break down the topic of quality prevalent in the forest carbon market and the Fund’s answer to this. Not only that, but we also discuss how Manulife IM is addressing investor concerns over wildfire risk and carbon market certainty. Eric closes by reminding us that sustainable timberland is a proven asset class, well-positioned to meet financial and climate objectives, as well as other impacts, such as biodiversity and social benefits."I think we need to have every realistic and cost-efficient approach on the table if we're going to effectively combat climate change.""I will be the first to say I'm not a forester by training, and I stand on the shoulders of giants. It's unbelievable what you can learn and the science and the rigor that forestry as a discipline has incorporated into it."Useful ResourcesManulifeManulife Investment Management on LinkedInEric Cooperstörm on LinkedInFavourite tree: Redwoods (Sequoioideae)Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTimestamps01:47Eric’s professional background05:18Exciting trends in natural climate solutions07:27Funding strategy & Manulife’s suite of services10:31Ensure high-integrity carbon credits in forest fund that also targets timber production15:48Co-benefits/Core benefits19:52Structure of the fund22:10Carried interests of the fund23:05Targets for carbon credits24:10Investor concerns re. fire risks and manageme nt29:30Help investors to build confidence in new strategy33:18Existing timberland clients moved across?34:28Competition?Sound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru (Pixabay)Sign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I'm joined by Heiner Skaliks, Senior Advisor and Head of Latin America and the Caribbean at Convergence. In this conversation, we discuss blended finance's role in forest investment. We unpack the fundamentals of blended finance and explore how it strategically combines public, philanthropic, or otherwise concessional capital with private investment to de-risk and catalyze impactful investments. Heiner outlines six core archetypes of blended finance – from building concessional finance in the capital stack to technical assistance and results-based financing – and illustrates their real-world application through forestry-specific case studies. If you're curious how development finance institutions, governments, and private investors can collaborate to close the $4 trillion SDG financing gap or how blended structures can make forest projects investable, this episode is for you. Plus, you'll hear insights into Convergence's role in fostering partnerships and designing solutions that help forest finance take root.QuoteBlended finance is really about partnerships—about working together with different stakeholders coming under one roof and coming up with solutions.Useful resourcesConvergenceEmail: [email protected] tree: EvergreenProduction teamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTimestamps01:08History of Convergence & Heiner’s professional background08:30Definition of blended finance14:09Two components of the finance structure16:59Six archetypes of blended finance29:33Examples in forestry36:53How do you bring different partners together?40:20Advice for investors concerned about blended finance structures43:29Lessons learnt across 10 years of Convergence’s existence48:33Actionable advice for new investors49:55Contact detailsSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Daniel Farchy, an expert in multilateral finance who has worked across the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). In this conversation, Daniel describes the development and impact mandate behind most multilateral finance institutions. We talk about blended finance (particularly what structure works well for forestry) and the power of concessional capital to crowd in more risk-averse investors. Daniel explains the conundrum of the finance available in capital markets compared to the relatively small need for climate and nature solutions – where legally restricted allocations mean the finance pool is not as big as we think. We discuss the heavy lifting that multilateral or DFI finance can do in screening and due diligence. Conversely, this can also be perceived as a downside, as the investment process in such a partnership takes more time.QuoteFor asset owners, that's [forest investment] very attractive because if you're a pension fund, and you need to be able to deliver, a boring, steady, predictable return over 10 number of years, it's great to have that kind of thing in your portfolio because that gives you a certain degree of sustainability of return, which you will not get in much more volatile sectors.Useful ResourcesGreen Climate Fund (GCF)LinkedIn: Daniel FarchyFavourite tree: Diterocarp Production TeamFounding Director and Host: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTimestamps01:20Daniel’s career path03:44Multilateral funding & its limitations07:36What happens with ROI?10:14What should investors be aware of when exploring an partnership with a multilateral16:18Spectrum of investor profiles17:49Blended finance definition22:24An alternative way – a waterfall27:29Pension funds – allocating more capital to nature forestry, regenerative agriculture29:39Where do negotiations get sticky between multilaterals and private investors?35:16Examples where investors pulled out?38:43Tips on engaging institutions for fund managers40:16Actionable advice42:33Contact detailsSound LibraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, I reflect on Posaidon's outlook for nature finance in 2025, highlighting why it's a pivotal moment for forest investment. With rising demand for nature-based climate solutions, global biodiversity concerns, and a shift toward renewable products, forests are uniquely positioned to help asset owners meet fiscal regulatory requirements—while delivering strong returns. Yet, new forest investment strategies are slow to close. Beyond the usual hurdles like track record and pipeline, what about sustainability challenges? I break down five key sustainability reasons your fund isn’t closing — and how to fix them. Plus, I offer a free advisory call for those looking to refine their sustainability approach.If you're raising capital for a forest investment strategy, forest business, or forest assets, and you think part of the reason you might be struggling could be due to sustainability. I'm offering 6 sessions to spring your sustainability into action. Over this free 45 minute advisory call, we'll go over what's working, what isn't, and I'll provide tailored recommendations.Useful resourcesFree advisory call: Click on the link to book a timePosaidon Capital: Nature Finance Market Outlook 2025Production teamHost and Forestry Investment Expert: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and Editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTime stamps01:34Quote – Nature Finance Market Outlook 202503:03Interesting time for forest investment (great opportunities) 03:48Questions to ask —  when investment strategy does not succeed in raising capital04:19Sustainability factors holding back forest investment strategy from landing investors05:13Reason # 1: weak sustainability ethos07:04Possible solutions08:22Reason #2: no point of difference in sustainability strategy objectives from peers09:06Possible solutions09:48Reason #3: SFDR Article 8, 9, or EU Taxonomy alignment10:27Overview – SFDR Article 810:38Overview – SFDR Article 910:48EU Taxonomy11:19Possible solutions12:12Reason #4: weak sustainability track record13:06Possible solutions14:33Reason #5: wrong investors15:07Possible solutionsSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudAmbient Documentary by Sound Guru/PixabaySign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Maurice Ryan, Director of Business Development at Green Belt, joins me in conversation. We dig into the voluntary approach of biodiversity net gain that Green Belt applies to some of its forest assets. At this point, biodiversity net gain is not legislated in Ireland as in other jurisdictions. Still, Maurice is finding that some forest owners and capital providers are nonetheless interested in reshaping low-production areas into highly productive ones in nature. We discuss what is needed to scale this approach in Ireland and how encouraging or accelerating natural regeneration is a pragmatic way to restore biodiversity to a site. Maurice explains the breadth of biodiversity data they collect to demonstrate the improvements on the sites where they take this approach. We talk about how to bring this biodiversity net gain approach to other jurisdictions and the importance of stakeholder engagement when defining biodiversity objectives.Getting on the ground and touching, feeling, smelling in a forest is a whole different ball game altogether, you know, and depending on what their mindset is, whether it's a long-term legacy and it's a nature-based project or it’s commercial return, feet on the ground makes all the difference.We like to bring them [investors] on the journey with us because then there's a sense of trust from the off and decision-making then is much easier if they've spent time with us and our foresters on the ground.Useful resourcesGreenbeltMaurice email: [email protected] tree (Malus domestic)Production teamHost/Expert: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTimestamps01:50Intro to Maurice and Greenbelt04:20Production forestry in Ireland &08:33Definition of biodiversity net gain11:27Approach in operations under regulations14:12Main challenges with approach17:16Corporate or institutional investors?19:06Irish governmental initiatives?21:06Best type of land for project24:12Assessments?27:42Costs and additionality?31:48Local land ownership & expansion of more biodiversity-enriching projects36:52Insights gained that can be used by other jurisdictions39:14Exciting time in forestry40:23Actionable advice41:34Contact detailsSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, CoTipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Dr. Elias Ayrey, co-founder and chief science officer, and Mary Ignatiadis, forest economics and policy expert at Renoster. In this conversation, we view forest carbon investing through the lens of change theory. We talk about the long-term opportunity cost of forest carbon projects, and what investors need to consider to ensure that these projects are truly a solution for integrated forest landscape improvement. We discuss the essential distinctions between objective setting in markets like the US versus the Global South, and considerations for large, institutionally owned land versus smallholder-owned land. We tackle the controversy around generating carbon credits from commercial plantation forestry head-on. And, of course, we learn about Renoster and its essential work in helping investors and carbon credit buyers do due diligence on the quality of forest carbon projects.We can't ignore all the economic evidence that creating demand for wood products results in more forest investment and therefore more carbon storage, and until carbon prices increase dramatically, could be a better way to ensure long term carbon storage than carbon credits alone.It's worth considering if an investor is looking specifically at the forest base and at nature-based climate solutions that you should really think about whether having multiple different kinds of forest investments might contribute to a greater overall impact.ResourcesRenosterLEAF CoalitionSymbiosis CoalitionTrees: American chestnut (Castanea dentata) & Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)Production teamHost: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesTimestamps01:44Elias’ professional background & Renoster03:05Mary’s professional background & Renoster05:34Long term impacts should investors consider? Understand complete theory of change09:13But, what is the reality?11:28Investor coalitions13:44How would KPIs differ depending on the context, including small hold participants? (US market)16:48And any differences between the Global North and South?19:43Different KPIs in these regions?22:36Need both productive active timber management and forest carbon management25:30Balance between raising the value and bringing down costs30:10Percentage of these are avoided deforestation projects versus afforestation reforestation projects?34:47Questions of additionality and leakage are inherently financial36:08Carbon credits today37:32Applications of tools in Renoster’s work?39:04Project developers or buyers?39:28 Future of carbon markets43:05 Future of Renoster44:09Actionable adviceSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I’m joined by Craig MacKenzie, Senior Lecturer in Nature Finance at the University of Edinburgh Business School. Over Craig’s career, he has worked in asset management and transitioned to academia. He also advises several public bodies on land use change. From this vantage point, Craig shares his insights on the opportunities and challenges for scaling UK Carbon Forestry, where a significant roadblock is attracting institutional investors. We talk about the massive reduction in forest cover that has taken place in the UK over the centuries, and how the UK’s commitment to net zero is starting to reverse this trend. Despite the primarily well-received Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) and other favourable policies, the economics still don’t stack up to meet investors’ return requirements when compared to the risks associated with carbon credit price volatility and the long horizons for generating credits in the UK. But things are changing. Tune in to find out what’s in the pipeline for the sector that may make UK carbon forestry much more attractive to institutional investors, and support turning the UK’s net-zero ambitions into reality.QuoteThe biggest challenge for investors in the UK, in particular, is finding the bandwidth to do the due diligence on the UK kind of situation. So, the actionable advice is, can we find ways to pool the research question so that it isn't every single pension fund having to repeat the same amount of work, the same body of work?Can we create a data room for UK carbon forestry for our big pension funds, so that we can make it easy for the due diligence to happen?I'm quite excited about the potential for UK carbon forestry to move from being uninvestable to being attractive. But it would be tragic if we do that, but then nobody turns up because they just haven't been able to do the work.Useful resourcesCraig Mackenzie on LinkedInRoyal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)UK Woodland Carbon CodeScottish Land CommissionUniversity of Edinburgh Business SchoolPeatlandBeach tree (Fagus sylvatica)Time stamps01:26Craig’s background03:13What encompasses UK carbon forestry 06:38Woodland carbon code07:43UK forest cover10:57Opportunities to diversify/overlap land use (mostly segregated)14:33Invest in UK carbon forestry18:34Benefits/subsidies21:01Capital providers26:08Changes needed to attract more institutional private funding/investment32:51Carbon credits insurance products34:23Woodland Code UK – insurance35:56Biodiversity net gain legislation41:17Actionable advise42:57Contact detailsSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, I speak with Jessica Smith, Head of Nature at UNEP Finance Initiative, about the growing private sector interest in nature finance. She highlights the need for a common taxonomy to reduce investment hesitancy and notes that timberland remains a key nature-positive option for institutional investors. We explore the investment gap between the Global North and South, strategies for stakeholder engagement in areas with unclear tenure rights, and how to phase capital across a project’s life cycle. Jessica concludes with a strong call to eliminate deforestation from investment portfolios.Important links:Finance for Nature Positive paperPRB Sector guidance for forestry, agriculture, and miningShort article on this guidanceFinance roadmapCali Card ReportManaging biodiversity risk exposure? Do investors care about biodiversity? UNEP Finance InitiativeJessica Smith on LinkedInFavorite tree: EucalyptusProduction teamHost: Shauna Matkovich - The ForestLinkProducer and editor: Magdalena Laas - Unscripted CreativesDetails01:04Jessica’s background and work03:04Key lessons for nature from global events05:18Finance for nature positive09:04Principles for responsible banking specter action guidance for agricultural, forestry, mining sectors11:12How to  get private investment in nature-based assets15:31Strategies to be nature positive in timber-focus investment21:54What should asset managers look out for? Red flags27:44Importance of data collection32:34Blended finance36:12Attract impact capital & investors as ecosystems in themselves38:53Nature on climate COP agenda 2025 – eliminate deforestation, invest in nature positive solution40:20Actionable adviceSound libraryNature by MaxKoMusic/SoundcloudSopwell Woodlands and Scohaboy Bog SAC, Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary, IRELAND by wild_rumpus/SoundcloudSign up now for the ForestLink’s newsletter, where you’ll receive technical advice, reflections, and best-practice guidance to support you with your forest-linked investment strategy or business straight to your inbox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.