We have decided to establish our own independently verified carbon sequestion system that takes into consideration our long-term goal of restoration and conservation of intrinsic ecosphere values. To do this we plan to undertake a full carbon balance of all activities and from this we will calculate our carbon offsets that we will use to balance the activities at Tahi. We are measuring carbon in trees, soils and wetlands.

Forests are recognised as valuable ‘sinks’ for carbon, so credit is given - though not all forests are created equal. Unfortunately a disproportionate credit is awarded for exotic mono species plantations, while native forests are discounted as it is assumed that they may be normal activities rather than managed for carbon.

For example trees absorb carbon at different rates, very little in the first few years then continuing to increase as they mature. Australian Gum trees are the fastest carbon stores in New Zealand, reaching maximum capacity between years 10-20 and then rapidly declining. By comparison native trees are slow, though continue to expand storage rates for 100-400 years, then slowly decreasing, with the added bonus of also contributing to biodiversity.

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