Tech giant Microsoft has entered into a carbon dioxide removal (CDR) transaction with 3Degrees, a leading global climate solutions provider and certified B Corp to acquire over 80,000 metric tons of carbon removals from the Blue Creek Improved Forest Management Project in Northern California.
Managed by Western Rivers Conservancy (WRC) the Blue Creek Project enhances forest carbon stocks in North America and funds the creation of the Blue Creek Forest and Salmon Sanctuary. This sanctuary is integral to conserving 47,000 acres of temperate rainforest, with the land being repatriated to the Yurok Tribe. The proceeds from the carbon credit sale have enabled WRC to purchase and return the Yurok’s ancestral lands to the Tribe.
Currently, nearly 15,000 acres are being preserved as a Salmon Sanctuary, safeguarding the lower half of the Blue Creek watershed and maintaining the cold-water lifeline essential for salmon, steelhead, and the Klamath River system. The project also provides crucial habitat for endangered species such as the marbled murrelet, northern spotted owl, California condor, and Humboldt marten.
“Microsoft’s investment in the Blue Creek Improved Forest Management Project highlights its commitment to impactful carbon removals and emphasizes the critical role these projects play in enhancing global climate efforts,” stated Jennifer Cohn, Associate Director of Business Partnerships at 3Degrees. “We are thrilled that Microsoft has chosen to support this project as it not only protects vital habitats but also supports the local community through sustainable land management.”
Microsoft’s commitment exemplifies corporate responsibility and strategic foresight in tackling current and future global environmental challenges.
“We are pleased that 3Degrees is providing carbon removals that meet our quality criteria,” said Brian Marrs, Senior Director of Energy and Carbon Removal at Microsoft. He added, “Microsoft’s purchase of carbon removal credits from this project supports our near-term climate goals via a diversified portfolio of carbon removal.”
