Application of the First Certified Methodology for Wetland Carbon Credits to a Wetland Municipal Effluent Assimilation System in Luling, Louisiana

Wetland restoration is a critical tool to combat wetland loss and is an effective climate change mitigation strategy as it enhances carbon sequestration and avoids carbon release that would occur in the absence of restoration activities. The American Carbon Registry (ACR) Restoration of Degraded Deltaic Wetlands of the Mississippi Delta methodology is the first carbon offset methodology that is specifically focused on U.S. wetlands, and is the first wetland offset methodology in the world that is applicable at a large scale to broadly address wetland restoration through numerous eligible restoration techniques including hydrologic management, reforestation and afforestation. The objective of this project is to deliver a proof-of-concept carbon offset project at the wetlands near Luling, Louisiana, to address science gaps, “road test” the developed methodology, determine costs, benefits, and barriers to implementation, identify cost-saving measures, and potentially produce commercially viable offsets. This is the first wetland offset pilot project in the nation that also demonstrates the ability to create public private partnerships that leverage carbon finance. The results will inform managers and developers on how to develop wetland carbon credits that are compliance eligible, economically competitive, and scientifically defensible.