SHILLONG, Sep 11: Carbon Credits from Bamboo Forests, an initiative that is the "first in the country" to focus specifically on bamboo forest resources, was formally launched at a workshop held at the Sngithiang Conference Hall, MBDA.

Led by the Centre of Excellence for Natural Resource Management (NRM) & Sustainable Livelihoods under MBDA/MBMA, the project aims to provide direct monetary benefits to local communities while promoting sustainable management of bamboo forests. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for integrating natural resource conservation with community-driven climate solutions across the country.

In addition to carbon revenues, the project will offer livelihood support and opportunities for bamboo-based entrepreneurship to participating communities. Expanding its objectives, the Centre of Excellence also announced a bamboo-based biochar carbon credit programme to strengthen bamboo's role in sustainability, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience.

The workshop brought together officials from MBDA, the Meghalaya State Bamboo Mission, and community representatives from Khasi and Garo Hills. It was chaired by Dr. Subhash Ashutosh, IFS (Retd.), Co-Chairman & Director of the Centre of Excellence for NRM & Sustainable Livelihoods, MBDA/MBMA, and attended by Shri Sachin Gavade, IFS, Executive Director, MBDA/MBMA.