iRise is taking a monumental step towards environmental sustainability with its latest initiative: planting 2 million trees and targeting to achieve over 800,000 tonnes of carbon removals. This ambitious project is a key part of their broader commitment to combating climate change and contributing to a greener future for Malawi and beyond.
The company is working diligently to transport these young saplings from its two nurseries located in Lilongwe and Mzuzu to their Mpasadzi estate, a site that has been carefully selected for this large-scale reforestation effort. By leveraging the resources of its nurseries, iRise aims to create a thriving, resilient ecosystem on the estate, which will help absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus contributing to the global effort to reduce carbon emissions.
iRise had the honour of participating in COP29 in Azerbaijan, where we had the privilege of sharing insights on the transformative iRise program in a session opened by Ismail Serageldin and HE Dr Joyce Banda.
Ismail Serageldin, Co-chair of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center and former VP of the World Bank, set the stage by discussing innovative financing mechanisms that foster both climate action and community development.
H.E. Dr. Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi and Pan-African Climate Change Champion for Loss and Damage, further underscored the importance of partnerships, international cooperation, and tailored solutions that align with the highest global standards, reflecting the principles of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, as a key driver for achieving the broader SDGs.
iRise has signed an agreement with Offset8 Capital to develop a 2.8 million tonne carbon offset project. This collaboration marks a significant step in scaling up iRise’s efforts to combat climate change through large-scale carbon sequestration initiatives.
The agreement outlines the development of projects that will generate carbon credits by capturing and reducing emissions equivalent to 2.8 million tonnes of CO2.
This partnership with Offset 8 Capital not only accelerates the impact of iRise’s environmental initiatives but also strengthens the growing carbon offset market, helping companies and governments meet their climate commitments.
The deal further solidifies iRise’s position as a key player in global carbon solutions.
At COP 28, iRise Carbon was awarded the prestigious title of "Best Forestry Initiative," recognizing their outstanding contributions to sustainable forest management and carbon offset projects. The award highlights iRise Carbon’s innovative approach to reforestation and afforestation, which not only combat climate change by sequestering carbon but also support biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and enhance local livelihoods. This recognition solidifies iRise’s role as a leader in global environmental solutions, demonstrating how effective forestry initiatives can be a powerful tool in achieving both climate and community goals. The win further emphasizes the growing importance of nature-based solutions in the fight against global warming.
iRise has officially signed a Direct Carbon Agreement with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change, and the Ministry of Finance in Malawi. This landmark agreement underscores a significant commitment to mitigating climate change by supporting sustainable environmental projects within the country.
The collaboration aims to enhance carbon sequestration initiatives, leveraging Malawi's rich natural resources to generate carbon credits that can be traded on international markets. Through this agreement, iRise Carbon will work closely with the Malawian government to develop and implement large-scale afforestation and reforestation projects, alongside other green initiatives designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Malawi, a country that has faced numerous environmental challenges such as deforestation and soil erosion, stands to benefit significantly from these efforts.
At COP 27, iRise Carbon was selected as a UN Lighthouse Project, a prestigious recognition that highlights innovative solutions aimed at addressing global climate challenges. This honor places iRise Carbon at the forefront of environmental sustainability, spotlighting their groundbreaking work in carbon offsetting, reforestation, and sustainable development. As a UN Lighthouse Project, iRise Carbon’s initiatives are seen as scalable, impactful, and aligned with global climate goals, setting an example for other organizations to follow. The recognition underscores their commitment to creating measurable, positive change in the fight against climate change, while also fostering economic opportunities in communities around the world. This selection not only elevates iRise's profile but also strengthens the growing movement toward more sustainable, nature-based solutions to the climate crisis.
At iRise, we take great pride in our work and in how we’re bringing our vision to life—creating a sustainable, low-carbon future by fostering positive environmental and social change through innovative climate solutions. Central to our mission is addressing the twin challenges of climate change and poverty, by empowering vulnerable communities to embrace eco-friendly technologies and practices.