“Europeans’ interest in Brazil’s environment is linked to greater environmental awareness in Europe, where sustainability policies are more rigorous…”
Gabriel Neto is the founder and executive director of Agroforestry Carbon, graduated in forestry engineering from the Federal University of Lavras, with a postgraduate degree in strategic carbon management from FGV.
Gabriel Neto, founder at Agroforestry Carbon
AgriBrasilis – How can agroforestry systems offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from companies?
Gabriel Neto – Agroforestry systems are an effective solution to offset GHG emissions from companies by integrating trees into production systems. Trees can sequester carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis, storing it in their biomass and in the soil.
By promoting the recovery of degraded areas, agroforestry improves soil health and biodiversity, resulting in a regenerative and sustainable system. Companies can offset their emissions by financing the planting and maintenance of these agroforests, directly contributing to the reduction of GHGs in a traceable and transparent way.
AgriBrasilis – What makes a system be considered an agroforestry? Are there certifications to guarantee this?
Gabriel Neto – An agroforestry system is characterized by the integration of trees, shrubs, agricultural crops and, in some cases, animals in the same area. The key lies in the harmonious combination of these species, creating a relationship of mutual benefit, in which biodiversity, soil and water resources are preserved and regenerated.
There are international and national certifications, such as the Organic Seal and other sustainable agroforestry management standards, which help ensure that the system follows appropriate environmental and social practices. These certifications provide additional credibility to companies seeking to offset emissions in agroforestry systems.
AgriBrasilis – Are agroforests economically viable?
Gabriel Neto – Yes, agroforests are economically viable and, in many cases, more sustainable in the long term than conventional agricultural systems. They offer multiple sources of income for farmers, such as through the sale of fruits, wood, seeds, herbs and other products derived from trees and integrated crops.
By improving soil health and reducing the need for external inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, operating costs decrease over time. For companies that invest in this model, there is the benefit of associating their brand with sustainable and regenerative practices, which adds value and can strengthen market positioning.
AgriBrasilis – In your opinion, why are Europeans more interested in investing in Brazil’s environment than local businessmen?
Gabriel Neto – The interest of Europeans in Brazil’s environment is linked to greater environmental awareness in Europe, where sustainability policies are more rigorous and the consumer public values companies that demonstrate commitment to the environment.
Furthermore, Brazil has one of the greatest biodiversity in the world, and the preservation of the Amazon and other biomes has a significant global impact. Local businesspeople often do not see the immediate value of protecting these resources, while Europeans see investing in Brazil as a way to mitigate the impacts of climate change on a global scale, aligning with their sustainability goals.
AgriBrasilis – How many trees have already been planted by Agroforestry Carbon and in which regions?
Gabriel Neto – To date, Agroforestry Carbon has planted more than 500,000 trees, with hundreds of partner farmers in various regions of Brazil, including biomes such as the Amazon, Atlantic Forest and Cerrado. Our focus is on degraded areas and family farming regions, where the impact of regeneration is most necessary and effective, both environmentally and socially.
AgriBrasilis – What species are planted and why?
Gabriel Neto – More than 700 different species have already been planted by more than 300 farmers in our network. The choice of species varies depending on the biome and the needs of each agroforestry system. We give preference to native species, such as ipê, jatobá and cedar, to promote biodiversity and regenerate local ecosystems. We also strategically insert some exotic species, such as bananas and coffee plants, which generate additional income for farmers. This approach balances environmental recovery with economic viability for local communities.
AgriBrasilis – How does the company carry out an inventory of its customers’ greenhouse gases emissions?
Gabriel Neto – Agroforestry Carbon carries out the GHG inventory using the Brazil GHG Protocol, a widely recognized methodology for accounting for emissions. Our team makes detailed calculations of customers’ emissions, evaluating all sources of direct and indirect emissions. Based on these calculations, we offer compensation through our agroforestry systems, ensuring that the process is fully traceable, transparent and in accordance with the best global carbon measurement and mitigation practices.
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