Nature-based Carbon Removal: DroneSeed’s Reforestation Model
Dec 14, 2022
44:41
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Quick takeaways
DroneSeed's reforestation model provides volume and cost-effective nature-based carbon removal solutions post-wildfires, addressing climate and financial risks.
Nature-based carbon removal, such as reforestation, offers scalability, co-benefits like increased water flow, and opportunities for businesses to differentiate and improve their brand image.
Deep dives
Nature-based carbon removal with Droneseed
Droneseed is a startup that focuses on post-wildfire reforestation using drones. They supply seedlings, conduct field operations with drones, and offer carbon offsets. The company targets areas that have low to no feasible regenerative capacity and aims to increase water flow and provide employment in rural communities impacted by fire. Their approach differentiates them in the market by providing volume and cost effectiveness compared to other nature-based solutions. Droneseed's customers include companies like Shopify and real estate developers who are committed to offsetting their emissions. Those interested in a career in business and climate change can consult resources like Lean Startup, Hard Things about Hard Things, Climate Draft, Climate Base, and the My Climate Journey community for job opportunities and guidance in the ClimateTech field.
Forecast-driven carbon offsetting
Droneseed and other reforesting companies sell carbon offsets based on a forecast of carbon sequestration. These offsets are backed by ongoing monitoring and verification, as well as an insurance pool provided by Climate Action Reserve. The insurance pool ensures that if a perturbation such as a fire occurs, the offsets can be retired from the pool. Droneseed's focus on volume trees and cost-effective reforestation allows them to provide offsets that fit within buyers' budgets and goals. The company's approach not only addresses carbon removal but also offers co-benefits such as increased water flow in streams and rivers and provides employment in rural communities.
Sources of capital and resources for the field
Droneseed has secured funding from venture capital sources, including investors like Alexis Ohanian, Mark Benioff, and Social Capital. For individuals interested in the field, there are resources available to explore and pursue careers in business and climate change. Books like Lean Startup and Hard Things about Hard Things provide valuable insights into entrepreneurship and overcoming challenges. Job boards and communities like Climate Draft, Climate Base, and My Climate Journey offer opportunities and support for those looking to work in ClimateTech. Additionally, Ministry for the Future, a book by Kim Stanley Robinson, presents a vision for a brighter future and can be an inspiring resource.
The advantages of nature-based carbon removal
Nature-based carbon removal, such as reforestation, offers advantages like scalability, visual appeal, and co-benefits. Reforestation with the right density of trees can increase water flow and generate a water supply downstream. Trees are deeply rooted in human psyche and are easily understood. Droneseed's focus on volume trees allows for cost-effective offsets, making them an attractive choice for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint. By participating in nature-based solutions, businesses can improve their brand image, attract talent, and differentiate themselves from competitors. The field of ClimateTech offers diverse opportunities, including roles in accounting, HR, UX, and policy, for those interested in pursuing careers in this space.
Grant Canary, CEO of DroneSeed, a startup company designed to accelerate reforestation after wildfires, shares his perspective on the landscape of nature-based carbon removal solutions and how DroneSeed has developed a business model to address both climate and financial risk. He also discusses how his venture capital background lends itself to tackling complex climate solutions and he offers advice for those interested in careers in business and climate change.
