ABSTRACT
The Agroforestry-Carbon Project in Meghalaya represents a pioneering effort to combat climate change while enhancing rural livelihoods through the integration of agroforestry practices and carbon finance mechanisms. Initiated by the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA) in collaboration with Iora Ecological Solutions and supported by Rabobank's Acorn platform, the project targets 2,000 villages across all 12 districts of the state. By promoting sustainable land use through reforestation, conservation, and community-led agroforestry, the project aims to generate Carbon Removal Units (CRUs), improve soil health, support biodiversity, and establish green livelihoods. As of 2025, over 13,000 farmers have enrolled, collectively managing more than 23,000 ha of land. The project employs a participatory approach, with trained Agroforestry-Carbon Associates facilitating community mobilisation, capacity building, and the onboarding process. Despite challenges such as financial constraints and integration with local livelihoods, the initiative demonstrates strong community engagement and offers a scalable model for integrating climate mitigation with socio-economic development. Once the verification process concludes, enrolled farmers receive payments for their contributions to carbon sequestration, reinforcing local ownership of natural resource management and climate resilience.
