President Tshisekedi Reaffirms DRC’s Commitment to Carbon Market at UN Assembly
During the 79th United Nations General Assembly, President Félix Tshisekedi reaffirmed the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) commitment to enhancing its role in the global carbon market.
“The DRC is implementing legal instruments and institutional mechanisms to solidify its position in this market while remaining open to partnerships that align with the Paris Agreement and our internal laws,” he stated.
In his address, President Tshisekedi underscored the urgency of recognizing the connections between climate change, environmental degradation, and security.
He urged the Security Council to establish international mechanisms that incorporate these issues into their discussions. “Awareness of the challenges posed by climate instability and the depletion of natural resources, often at the root of armed conflicts, highlights the necessity for immediate action,” he added.
With 152 million hectares of forest covering 67% of its national territory, the DRC possesses immense potential for generating carbon credits, particularly through avoided deforestation.
The country is home to 8% of the world’s forest carbon, making it a critical player in the global fight against climate change. To structure this market, the government has enacted several regulatory measures.
Notably, Ordinance-Law No. 23/007 of March 3, 2023, amends and supplements Law No. 11/009 of July 9, 2011, which pertains to fundamental principles of environmental protection.
Additionally, Decree No. 23/22 of June 14, 2023, establishes and organizes a public institution known as the Carbon Market Regulatory Authority in the DRC.
Furthermore, an interministerial decree from September 2023 outlines how the benefits from carbon credits will be shared with the Congolese State.
Last year, President Tshisekedi advocated for a fair price for carbon credits to support African nations that contribute to forest conservation.
“It is inconceivable that companies and governments are investing billions in artificial carbon capture technologies at $400 per tonne while only allocating $5 per tonne for the conservation of tropical forests,” he emphasized during a mini-summit in 2023.
He also reiterated the DRC’s goal to protect 15% of its territory, or 323,623 square kilometers, for biodiversity conservation by 2030.
This initiative includes the establishment of 70 million hectares of conservation areas, with 30 million dedicated to community conservation efforts.
