In a major conservation and climate initiative, the Koala Friendly Carbon Initiative is working with local landholders to restore critical habitat for endangered east coast koalas through a unique carbon farming programme.
Launched as a first-of-its-kind effort in Australia, the initiative sets out an ambitious goal to regenerate 10,000 hectares of native koala habitat across eastern Australia over the next decade. The programme is being hailed as one of the country’s most visionary carbon removal projects.
Currently active in key regions of New South Wales, the initiative plans to expand wherever koalas and communities can co-exist and flourish. It enables landholders to restore native forests while generating income through Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs). Participants are supported throughout the process, from the supply of seedlings to biodiversity monitoring.
The project delivers multiple environmental benefits—enhancing koala habitat, supporting biodiversity, improving soil and water quality, and contributing to local economic development.
A core principle of the initiative is the integration of First Nations knowledge and respect for connection to Country. In partnership with Indigenous communities and contractors, the programme prioritises cultural consultation and ensures that Traditional Knowledge informs land restoration efforts wherever appropriate.
According to WWF, which is leading the effort, the project exemplifies nature-positive climate action. “Protecting koalas means protecting Country, culture and the ecosystems we all depend on,” the organisation stated.
The initiative underscores the growing recognition that biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation must go hand-in-hand—particularly as iconic species like the koala face mounting threats from habitat loss and climate change.
