The Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) is a national initiative to purchase carbon abatement. Its early focus was on the land sector, where Queensland had a strong interest in the co-benefits of biodiversity and Great Barrier Reef water quality. At the time, Queensland needed to know if it could leverage ERF funds for environmental improvement.

Losee Consulting scrutinised details of the ERF methods, formulating a possible model for state involvement. We tested the viability of this model, including a full assessment of risks and opportunities. Our study focussed on the potential for reducing greenhouse emissions and nitrogen runoff from sugar cane farms and grazing lands.

We presented alternatives and recommendations on how to implement the program while managing risk. This allowed the government to gauge whether it would be worthwhile to invest in creating a complementary program.

Ultimately, the government established a Land Restoration Fund to support land-sector carbon projects that deliver additional environmental, socio-economic and First Nations co-benefits.