Nationally Determined Contributions

Balance represents a revolutionary approach, merging environmental sustainability with economic prosperity. It introduces a new asset class with the potential to rival the size of the fossil fuel industry. This initiative not only seeks to rectify past harms but also to pave the way for a sustainable and equitable future.

CREATING NEW GOVERNMENT ASSET CLASS

Transforming global finance and environment through Balance.


Core Value Proposition

A new asset class.

  • Targeted to mirror the monumental scale of the fossil fuel sector, providing a sustainable alternative that supports the global transition to a green economy.

Empowering developing countries and the Global South.

  • Recognising developing countries and the global south as key holders of vast natural resources, the Balance methodology enables them to unlock these assets, enhancing their borrowing capacity and fostering socioeconomic growth.

Tri impact.

  • Simultaneously addressing biodiversity, climate change and promoting socio-economic development, Balance offers a holistic solution that benefits both the planet and its people

Strategic Objectives

Generate Employment and Income.

  • Stimulate economic growth by providing sustainable jobs and income sources through environmental projects.

Create Biodiversity and Community Health.

  • Foster environmental restoration and resilience, ensuring long-term benefits for local communities.

Increase Borrowing Capacity.

  • Support countries in leveraging their natural resources to enhance their financial stability and development potential.

Methodology and Implementation

Balance is not just a concept but a practical solution already gaining momentum. By aligning with Government, we aim to scale this methodology, leveraging the natural wealth of the global south and the rest of the world for global benefit. Here’s how:

Engagement with Four Countries.

  • Active collaboration with nations ready to adopt Balance, showcasing our commitment and the methodologies’ viability.

Balance stands at the precipice of a new financial era, offering:

A Collaborative Investment Opportunity.

  • For investors and countries seeking to contribute to a sustainable future while realising healthy returns.

An Equitable Growth Model.

  • Ensuring that the benefits of environmental action are widely distributed, particularly benefiting the Global South

Market and Financial Implications

Balance stands at the precipice of a new financial era, offering:

A Collaborative Investment Opportunity.

  • For investors and countries seeking to contribute to a sustainable future while realising healthy returns.

An Equitable Growth Model.

  • Ensuring that the benefits of environmental action are widely distributed, particularly benefiting the Global South

Rationale

Substantial Expansion of Country Standing: This new asset class has a significant positive effect on a country’s position in the global markets, making borrowing more affordable.

Benefits of the Balance 6 Point System: This system aims to create biodiversity, generate employment opportunities, and mitigate climate change effects.

Financing Through Sovereign Wealth Funds: Numerous countries possess sovereign wealth funds capable of financing the creation of Balance units, enhancing their borrowing capacity. This is similar to the benefits derived from natural resource extraction.

Utilising Natural Resources in Poor Countries: Interestingly, the poorest countries often have the greatest natural resources. Our proposal seeks to leverage this fact, akin to a strategic manoeuvre in jiu-jitsu, on resource extraction colonialism, to enhance their economic prospects.

Sustained Long-Term Well-Being: The primary mandate and rationale for governments’ existence are to ensure sustained long-term economic, environmental, and social well-being.

Markets for Social Good: The underlying purpose of markets should be to contribute to social good and wealth building, aligning economic activities with broader societal objectives.


Four Models To Fund The Asset Class

New projects take three years post planting in order to achieve carbon credits. Planting partners need financing, which often comes from logging companies that encourage monoculture crop with a permanence of 40 years as opposed to Balance’s 99 years. There are four models to create the asset class that solve this:

  1. Business As Usual

Adopt the current business model with countries as suppliers

  1. Ex-ante funded

Partner with private capital to fund the initial project development

  1. Country funded

Partner with country and sovereign wealth funds for initial project development

  1. Client funded

Self-financing by Balance clients, with each Balance Unit funding the creation three more


Business As Usual

Worked Example, One Tonne of Balance

• Current model is Balance acquires existing verified carbon credits, that adhere to the our six-point methodology. We then sell these through the Balance platform.

• Countries become the planting partners (Balance stock suppliers).

• The model is cash positive. Balance acquires the units after we have been paid by our client.


Ex-Ante Funded

  • Currently removal credits tend to be funded by industrial logging processes, creating mono-culture forests with only
    40-year protection.
  • With a pool of capital Balance could provide 25% of the expected post-verification value, in order to create forests that will adhere to the Balance methodology.
  • We build a capital pool from private equity as well as structured instruments.
  • Units can be sold along the timeline of the project, initiation to verification. Verified and pre-verified credits have different values.
  • Balance clients aren’t buying carbon credits for offset, they are buying Balance Units for biodiversity, therefore the depressed pre-verified value can be enhanced through our system.

Country Funded

  • Countries act as the ex-ante fund, to initiate the projects adhering to the BALANCE® methodology.
  • Countries’ sovereign wealth funds can create in-country initiatives as well as RoW.
  • Countries receive finance that does three things:
  1. Creates biodiversity
  2. Social-economic co-benefits
  3. Addresses climate
  • At scale, this could help the country borrow money on the international markets at a reduced rate.
  • Countries are in control of pathways to 2050. With this model, it would be in their interest to speed up compliant sector
    adoptions.

Client Funded: Rationale

• Balance clients are not buying credits for ‘carbon neutrality’, they are buying Balance Units to create biodiversity.

• We envisage using c.75% of the revenue coming in from clients to fund new projects.

• Some downside protection as the terminal asset value of the units can be traded openly on the markets and the asset is held by the planting partner.

• Units can be sold along the timeline from project initiation to verification: verified and pre-verified product. This can create a market for unverified stock, which has a depressed value.

BIG IDEAS ARE NEEDED TO SCALE THE GIGATONS REMOVED THROUGH THE VCM

Conclusion: A Call to Action

  • We are at a critical juncture in our global environmental and economic journey.
  • Balance offers an unprecedented opportunity to shift the narrative, turning the challenges of today into the assets of tomorrow.
  • By investing in Balance, stakeholders can partake in creating a sustainable, equitable future that not only addresses the legacy of the fossil fuel industry but also sets a new standard for prosperity and environmental stewardship.
  • Balance has inverted the traditional natural resource, extraction model, addressing the fact of carbon and natural resource extraction colonialism, creating employment, biodiversity and climate mitigation with the country, its people and its fauna and flora being the beneficiary.

ENGAGING FOR THE FUTURE

• As we advance, our partnership with investors, our ongoing involvement with select countries, and building a strategic
relationship with key entities will underscore our commitment to this transformative journey.

• Together, we can redefine the value of natural resources in the Global South and indeed ROW, turning them into a
cornerstone of global economic and environmental strategy.

Balance Vision

The Balance vision is that the Balance methodology is the standard methodology that NDC use for Nature Based Solutions (NBS) are created against, and that the entirety of the carbon markets are compliant rather than voluntary. Balance Units can be hypothecated out through balance directly to clients, as opposed to becoming an aggregated pool within NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions).

• Role of Countries in Drafting and Voting: Countries are pivotal in drafting and voting on Article 6, which positions them as key beneficiaries in the development of this national asset, leading to greater income both at the individual and national levels, alongside the benefits of enhanced biodiversity. It is logical that these countries will vote for this at COP.

• Pathways to 2050 Compliance: Currently, only five sectors are compliant, but this number is expected to increase over time. Countries could speed up and enforce sectoral  compliance therefore, expanding the market for their new national asset.

• Challenges to Implementation: The main obstacle to broader compliance and the development of environmental assets is lobbying by the fossil fuel industry, which hinders progress towards sustainable practices. As a new industry evolves at a similar scale to the incumbent, it is logical these impediments can be addressed.

• Vision for the Balance Methodology: The ambition is for the Balance methodology to become the framework against which Nature Based Solutions (NBS) are developed. The goal is for the entirety of the carbon markets to be compliant, transitioning from a voluntary to a mandatory system across all sectors.

• Balance Role in the Vision: We act as the agent responsible for delivering  the Balance Units, planting the additional in country local trees, managing communications, conducting due diligence on projects, engage in monitoring verification and research, ensuring the successful implementation and adoption of the Balance methodology in country and across carbon markets.

The Balance Unit could be tokenised utilising distributed ledger AI and satellite monitoring. Creating an evolution pathway to the BALANCE® Token.

Contact Balance for More information

LOCH NESS
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, a vibrant ecosystem is thriving at the Loch Ness Afforestation Project. This 92-hectare landscape, strategically located between two Sites of Special Scientific Interest, serves as a vital migration corridor for a rich array of species. With neighbouring rewinding projects flourishing, the benefits to the local environment are immense.
LOCH NESS
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, a vibrant ecosystem is thriving at the Loch Ness Afforestation Project. This 92-hectare landscape, strategically located between two Sites of Special Scientific Interest, serves as a vital migration corridor for a rich array of species. With neighbouring rewinding projects flourishing, the benefits to the local environment are immense.
BLUE SLATE WOOD
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Lancashire, Blue Slate Wood is a testament to the power of nature and its extraordinary capacity for resilience and creating a space of well-being. This diverse native woodland, a collaboration with the River Ribble Trust, champions biodiversity and addresses climate change while creating valuable jobs within the local community.
BLUE SLATE WOOD
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Lancashire, Blue Slate Wood is a testament to the power of nature and its extraordinary capacity for resilience and creating a space of well-being. This diverse native woodland, a collaboration with the River Ribble Trust, champions biodiversity and addresses climate change while creating valuable jobs within the local community.
BLACKFORD FARMS
Located near Gleneagles and the Trossachs National Park, the Blackford Forest Project spans 192 hectares, restoring a vital piece of Scotland’s natural heritage. This ambitious project aims to create 38,162 tCO2e of balance units by planting 489,744 trees and establishing a vibrant mix of native and coniferous woodlands.
BLACKFORD FARMS
Located near Gleneagles and the Trossachs National Park, the Blackford Forest Project spans 192 hectares, restoring a vital piece of Scotland’s natural heritage. This ambitious project aims to create 38,162 tCO2e of balance units by planting 489,744 trees and establishing a vibrant mix of native and coniferous woodlands.
TRUKSINASTA TERRITORY, HONDURAS
Nestled in the heart of La Mosquitia, Honduras, one of the most economically challenged regions renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, the Paskaia Project stands as a testament to resilience and environmental stewardship. This area, known for its lush tropical ecosystem, has faced significant challenges over the years, including exploitation for logging—especially of the Caribbean pine, the forest’s predominant species—and damage from wildfires, which have impeded the natural growth of its flora.
TRUKSINASTA TERRITORY, HONDURAS
Nestled in the heart of La Mosquitia, Honduras, one of the most economically challenged regions renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity, the Paskaia Project stands as a testament to resilience and environmental stewardship. This area, known for its lush tropical ecosystem, has faced significant challenges over the years, including exploitation for logging—especially of the Caribbean pine, the forest’s predominant species—and damage from wildfires, which have impeded the natural growth of its flora.
CUMBRIA’S COMMUNITY FOREST
The Raise: Cumbria’s Community Forest is a transformative project reimagining Cumbria’s western coastline. This ambitious initiative creates woodlands, enhances biodiversity, combats climate change, and connects coastal communities with the unique beauty of their natural surroundings.
CUMBRIA’S COMMUNITY FOREST
The Raise: Cumbria’s Community Forest is a transformative project reimagining Cumbria’s western coastline. This ambitious initiative creates woodlands, enhances biodiversity, combats climate change, and connects coastal communities with the unique beauty of their natural surroundings.
NORTH EAST COMMUNITY FOREST
The North East Community Forest is a collaborative vision for a greener, healthier future for Newcastle, Gateshead, North and South Tyneside, Sunderland, and Durham. This ambitious initiative unites local authorities and environmental organisations to plant trees, enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and create a lasting legacy for future generations.
NORTH EAST COMMUNITY FOREST
The North East Community Forest is a collaborative vision for a greener, healthier future for Newcastle, Gateshead, North and South Tyneside, Sunderland, and Durham. This ambitious initiative unites local authorities and environmental organisations to plant trees, enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and create a lasting legacy for future generations.
THAMES CHASE COMMUNITY
Since 1990, the Thames Chase Community Forest has been redefining the landscape of East London and South West Essex. This ambitious initiative transforms 40 square miles into a vibrant mosaic of woods, nature areas, and open spaces, offering a greener, healthier environment for over 650,000 local residents.
THAMES CHASE COMMUNITY
Since 1990, the Thames Chase Community Forest has been redefining the landscape of East London and South West Essex. This ambitious initiative transforms 40 square miles into a vibrant mosaic of woods, nature areas, and open spaces, offering a greener, healthier environment for over 650,000 local residents.
THE MERSEY FOREST
For over 25 years, The Mersey Forest has been creating vibrant woodlands and green spaces across Cheshire and Merseyside, weaving a tapestry of nature into the lives of over 1.6 million local residents. This ambitious initiative demonstrates the immense power of community collaboration and ‘thinking global, acting local.’ The Mersey Forest has planted over 9 million trees – a testament to the power of collective action. Your support helps ensure this legacy continues.
THE MERSEY FOREST
For over 25 years, The Mersey Forest has been creating vibrant woodlands and green spaces across Cheshire and Merseyside, weaving a tapestry of nature into the lives of over 1.6 million local residents. This ambitious initiative demonstrates the immense power of community collaboration and ‘thinking global, acting local.’ The Mersey Forest has planted over 9 million trees – a testament to the power of collective action. Your support helps ensure this legacy continues.
FOREST OF AVON TRUST
For over 30 years, the Forest of Avon Trust has worked tirelessly to connect people with trees across the West of England. This collaborative initiative works with partners and landowners to plant trees, improve woodland management, and engage the community with their natural heritage..
FOREST OF AVON TRUST
For over 30 years, the Forest of Avon Trust has worked tirelessly to connect people with trees across the West of England. This collaborative initiative works with partners and landowners to plant trees, improve woodland management, and engage the community with their natural heritage..
FOREST OF MERCIA
The Forest of Mercia is a testament to the power of tree planting. This dedicated Community Interest Company has revitalised Staffordshire and the West Midlands for decades, creating vibrant ecosystems that benefit the environment and the local community..
FOREST OF MERCIA
The Forest of Mercia is a testament to the power of tree planting. This dedicated Community Interest Company has revitalised Staffordshire and the West Midlands for decades, creating vibrant ecosystems that benefit the environment and the local community..
HUMBER FOREST (HEYWOODS)
The Humber Forest (HEYwoods) is a testament to the transformative power of trees. It celebrates the rich natural history of Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, and North Lincolnshire, weaving a tapestry of woodlands, hedgerows, and green spaces to enhance the landscape and foster a vibrant ecosystem..
HUMBER FOREST (HEYWOODS)
The Forest of Mercia is a testament to the power of tree planting. This dedicated Community Interest Company has revitalised Staffordshire and the West Midlands for decades, creating vibrant ecosystems that benefit the environment and the local community..
PLYMOUTH AND SOUTH DEVON
The Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest (P&SD) is a vibrant new initiative, a partnership between Plymouth City Council, South Hams District Council, West Devon Borough Council, the National Trust, and the Woodland Trust. This ambitious project will stretch from the heart of Plymouth to the edge of Dartmoor, creating a thriving mosaic of habitats and enhancing the connection between the city and its beautiful surroundings.
PLYMOUTH AND SOUTH DEVON
The Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest (P&SD) is a vibrant new initiative, a partnership between Plymouth City Council, South Hams District Council, West Devon Borough Council, the National Trust, and the Woodland Trust. This ambitious project will stretch from the heart of Plymouth to the edge of Dartmoor, creating a thriving mosaic of habitats and enhancing the connection between the city and its beautiful surroundings.
THE WHITE ROSE FOREST
The White Rose Forest isn’t just a collection of trees – it’s a growing network of woodlands transforming the landscape of North and West Yorkshire. This community-driven initiative strategically plants millions of trees in both urban and rural areas, creating a vibrant, resilient, and diverse natural environment.
THE WHITE ROSE FOREST
The White Rose Forest isn’t just a collection of trees – it’s a growing network of woodlands transforming the landscape of North and West Yorkshire. This community-driven initiative strategically plants millions of trees in both urban and rural areas, creating a vibrant, resilient, and diverse natural environment.
FOREST OF MARSTON VALE
The Forest of Marston Vale is an extraordinary testament to the power of vision and collaboration. For over 20 years, this initiative has transformed 61 square miles of Bedfordshire into a vibrant mosaic of woodlands and green spaces, offering a haven for nature and people alike.
FOREST OF MARSTON VALE
The Forest of Marston Vale is an extraordinary testament to the power of vision and collaboration. For over 20 years, this initiative has transformed 61 square miles of Bedfordshire into a vibrant mosaic of woodlands and green spaces, offering a haven for nature and people alike.
CITY OF TREES
City of Trees is a force of nature, transforming Greater Manchester into a greener, healthier, and more vibrant place to live. This innovative movement goes beyond just planting trees – it’s about restoring woodlands, creating urban green spaces, and forging a deep connection between the community and its natural environment.
CITY OF TREES
City of Trees is a force of nature, transforming Greater Manchester into a greener, healthier, and more vibrant place to live. This innovative movement goes beyond just planting trees – it’s about restoring woodlands, creating urban green spaces, and forging a deep connection between the community and its natural environment.
GREENWOOD COMMUNITY FOREST
Nestled in the heart of historic Nottingham Forest, the Greenwood Community Forest is a testament to Nottinghamshire’s deep connection with nature. Once a vast temperate rainforest, Britain’s woodlands hold a special place in our history. The Greenwood initiative seeks to revitalise this legacy, creating vibrant ecosystems, vital wildlife corridors, and spaces where people can reconnect with their natural heritaget.
GREENWOOD COMMUNITY FOREST
Nestled in the heart of historic Nottingham Forest, the Greenwood Community Forest is a testament to Nottinghamshire’s deep connection with nature. Once a vast temperate rainforest, Britain’s woodlands hold a special place in our history. The Greenwood initiative seeks to revitalise this legacy, creating vibrant ecosystems, vital wildlife corridors, and spaces where people can reconnect with their natural heritaget.
GREAT WESTERN COMMUNITY FOREST
The Great Western Community Forest (GWCF) is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together local people and organisations to create a better environment. With the vibrant town of Swindon at its heart, this ambitious project stretches from the White Chalk Downs to Salisbury Plain and all the way to the River Thames, covering an impressive 39,000 hectares.
GREAT WESTERN COMMUNITY FOREST
The Great Western Community Forest (GWCF) is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together local people and organisations to create a better environment. With the vibrant town of Swindon at its heart, this ambitious project stretches from the White Chalk Downs to Salisbury Plain and all the way to the River Thames, covering an impressive 39,000 hectares.
THE GREAT RESERVE
The Great Reserve is a dual purpose project focused on CO2 removal and biodiversity creation through planting and protection of the Giant Sequoia (AKA Redwood), species currently on the IUCN Endangered Species Red List in their native US habitat due to the impacts of climate change (wildfires, drought, insect infestation). The mission is to replicate what few are left in the US (75,000) by planting 100,000 of these magnificent trees in the UK, creating a new territory for them to thrive via assisted migration, creating The Great Reserve.
THE GREAT RESERVE
The Great Reserve is a dual purpose project focused on CO2 removal and biodiversity creation through planting and protection of the Giant Sequoia (AKA Redwood), species currently on the IUCN Endangered Species Red List in their native US habitat due to the impacts of climate change (wildfires, drought, insect infestation). The mission is to replicate what few are left in the US (75,000) by planting 100,000 of these magnificent trees in the UK, creating a new territory for them to thrive via assisted migration, creating The Great Reserve.