The predominant practices of conventional food production are major drivers for climate change, rural decline and ecological degradation. A recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) asserts that industrial food and farming are responsible for an estimated 30% of total greenhouse gas emissions per year linked to deforestation and land use degradation and unsustainable ways in which food is stored, transported, processed, and retailed.[1] There is an urgency to re-think key supply chains of food production, processing and distribution.

The urgency of climate change mitigation and adaptation has gained more recognition globally. With this awakening and willingness to act, society is on the threshold of change towards a more sustainable and ethical economy. Transitioning towards a net-zero future, investors must prepare for a substantial re-allocation of capital. In recognition that this transition will inevitably be complex, immediate investments in both, climate mitigation and adaptation are not just important but necessary to protect our planet and shift the world onto sustainable pathways.   

Studies estimate that alone in the U.S., more than $700 billion in investments are required over the next 30 years to support the transition of the world’s pivotal agriculture systems and realizing their potential of carbon sequestration and climate mitigation[6]. These investments are estimated to generate about $10 trillion in net financial returns.  

As part of this significant opportunity, 12Tree provides access for professional investors seeking sustainable, profitable investments into nature-based solution projects and opportunities. The invested capital is used for improvements in productivity, social impact, conservation and direct climate change mitigation along supply chain networks. By doing so, our teams  achieve market-level returns, risk optimization and highest sustainability standards through holistic in-house operational management. 

Our interdisciplinary team experts optimize resource allocation and potential returns in complex transactions. We are responsible for the origination and structuring of deals, always following rigorous and independent due diligence (legal, tax, financial, technical, social) and approval processes. After a project has been included in our portfolio, we strive to provide investors with clear and transparent operational and financial information, which is verified on a yearly basis by financial auditors and forestry/agriculture appraisers. To demonstrate our commitment to regenerative practices, we voluntary certify our projects under a standard that is selected on case by case basis (FSC, UTZ, organic, Gold standard etc.). Finally on the social front, we mandate social impact auditors that help us establish and track important impact objectives.