Uganda Unveils Forestry Compensation Strategy to Mitigate Energy Sector Emissions

By Canary Mugume | Friday, November 15, 2024
Uganda Unveils Forestry Compensation Strategy to Mitigate Energy Sector Emissions
Eng Michael Mugerwa - General Manager, Uganda Refinery Company
At the launch, Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, stressed the importance of harmonising energy development with environmental stewardship.

Baku, Azerbaijan – Uganda has launched its Alliance for Climate Forestry Compensation Strategy at the ongoing COP29 Climate Summit in Baku.

This ambitious initiative, part of the broader Alliance for Climate Resilience (ACR) programme, aims to counterbalance greenhouse gas emissions from Uganda’s energy sector—particularly its oil and gas projects—through nature-based solutions.

The strategy provides a roadmap for developing carbon credit projects that mitigate emissions while promoting sustainable energy practices.

At the launch, Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, stressed the importance of harmonising energy development with environmental stewardship.

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Uganda Unveils Forestry Compensation Strategy to Mitigate Energy Sector Emissions COP29

“Uganda is blessed with abundant natural energy resources, but as we develop oil and gas projects, we must prepare to manage the emissions they will generate. To offset these, we have identified government and district forest reserves as key areas for intervention,” Nankabirwa stated.

Eng. Michael Mugerwa, general manager of the Uganda Refinery Holding Company, explained that the strategy focuses on nature-based solutions like Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) and Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+).

These initiatives are projected to offset up to 1,000,000 metric tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions linked to Uganda’s energy projects.

A pre-feasibility study has identified 65,000 hectares of degraded land for reforestation and 220,000 hectares of threatened forests for protection under REDD+.

The ACR platform aims to coordinate efforts among government ministries, private sector players, and development partners to secure resources and implement these interventions effectively.

This Forestry Compensation Strategy complements Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan, unveiled at COP28, which outlines a sustainable pathway for energy development.

By integrating carbon offset projects into its energy sector, Uganda is demonstrating its commitment to aligning economic growth with global climate goals.

“Through the ACR, we are demonstrating that it is possible to balance industrial development with environmental stewardship,” said Minister Nankabirwa. “This strategy underscores Uganda’s commitment to addressing climate change while fostering sustainable growth.”

Uganda’s leadership in forestry compensation highlights its dedication to innovative climate resilience solutions.

By aligning energy expansion with environmental preservation, Uganda is setting a precedent for how nations can pursue development while safeguarding the planet’s future.

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