UAE farm generates 5m euros from sale of carbon credits

DUBAI: An innovative agricultural project in the United Arab Emirates has marked a significant milestone by generating five million euros from sale of carbon credits.

This achievement illustrates a successful blend of economic gain and environmental responsibility, leveraging the latest trend in global climate action initiatives.

Carbon credits are permits that allow a company to emit a certain quantity of greenhouse gases, with one credit equaling the emission of one ton of carbon dioxide or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases. Companies are allocated a specific number of these credits. If they reduce their emissions and have surplus credits, they can sell these to other companies in what is known as carbon markets.

‘David & Goliath’ farms have capitalised on the UAE’s commitment to innovative and sustainable agricultural technologies.

These include vertical farms, automated irrigation systems, and technologically advanced greenhouses.

The project focuses on cultivating rare and exotic fruits, combining unique agricultural methods with environmental and investment strategies aimed at sustainable agriculture. A key component of their revenue comes from monetising carbon credits.

According to the project’s investor, Dr. Lal Bhatia, the farm’s annual carbon credits’ provision amounts to 15,000 metric tons.

These credits are traded at 50 euros per ton, bringing in an annual revenue of 750,000 euros. Accumulated over seven years, this represents a significant financial and environmental achievement.

Dr. Bhatia emphasises the supportive environment in the UAE for such innovative projects, aligning with the nation’s goals for sustainability and agricultural advancements.

The ‘David & Goliath’ farms not only focus on the production of exotic fruits using cutting-edge technology but also prioritise sustainable practices that yield carbon credits.

These practices not only reduce carbon emissions but also convert them into a financial asset. The project’s foresight into the future of carbon trading has allowed them to venture into futures contracts, selling future carbon reserves.

The pricing strategy of setting 50 euros per ton of carbon credit is designed to hedge against market fluctuations, with expectations of a price rise to between 70 and 90 euros by 2030 in regulated markets like the European Union.

Dr. Bhatia encourages other companies to adopt similar approaches, merging environmental consciousness with economic growth, turning green initiatives into profitable ventures.

This project is a testament to the potential of aligning business strategies with environmental stewardship for sustainable and profitable outcomes.