The Business Case initiative is a transformational public-private partnership implemented by Rainforest Alliance, CDP, Clarmondial, Conservation International, and USAID to reduce commodity-driven deforestation, contribute to global climate and biodiversity goals, and drive investment and inclusive development across some of the world’s most important tropical landscapes.
HOW DOES THE INITIATIVE WORK?
Rates of forest and biodiversity loss are accelerating throughout the tropics, and the global impacts of the climate crisis are escalating. If tropical deforestation were a country, it would rank third in global emissions, behind only China and the U.S. Much of this deforestation is driven by the production of commodities such as coffee, timber, palm oil, rubber, and cocoa. Beginning in September 2021, the Business Case initiative will convene the private sector, governments, and local producers and organizations to address global environmental challenges associated with commodity-driven deforestation in some of the world’s most important tropical ecosystems and sourcing regions.
The Business Case initiative consists of three key components:
- Facilitation of multi-stakeholder landscape action plans and enhanced local capacity, as led by partners Rainforest Alliance and Conservation International.
- Increased disclosure of information on the performance of these landscapes and jurisdiction, as led by partner CDP.
- The development of innovative financing mechanisms to support investment in high-performing landscapes, as led by partner Clarmondial.
EXPECTED RESULTS
- 9.1 Million tons of CO2 emissions reduced through 2030
- 1.8 Million hectares under improved natural resource management
- More than 12,000 people receiving economic co-benefits such as improved livelihoods
- U.S. $30 Million of international finance mobilized for climate action
