Namibia is breaking new ground—literally! The country is set to become the first in the world to generate carbon credits using nopal cactus farming, thanks to an innovative project by Nopal Renewable Energy Corporation.

The idea is simple but powerful: plant cacti not for food, but to capture carbon from the atmosphere and turn Namibia’s drylands into productive, eco-friendly spaces. A 500-hectare trial farm kicked off in June 2024, with full environmental approval, and the company has already secured certification from international accreditation body CERTIS.

While the carbon credits aren’t yet listed on major global registries like Verra, the project is gaining momentum. As the cactus farms expand, Namibia could soon be a major player in the carbon offset market. The company aims to grow to 17,500 hectares by 2028, creating new opportunities in sustainable farming and green investments.

This is more than just a business venture—it’s a step toward positioning Namibia as a leader in climate-friendly innovation.

Read the full article published in the BR/EF for more detail.