OUR COUNTRY'S VALUE

As climate change accelerates, carbon credit markets have become a valuable financial tool for nations with significant carbon-absorbing ecosystems. The Bahamas, with its extensive mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and marine ecosystems, has a unique opportunity to benefit from these markets. By properly managing and monetizing our natural resources, The JSL will generate revenue through carbon credits while promoting environmental conservation and sustainable economic growth.  Carbon Credits are tradable permits that represent one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO2) removed or prevented from being emitted into the atmosphere. Countries and corporations looking to offset their emissions purchase these credits from organizations or governments that have implemented carbon sequestration projects. Given its abundant blue carbon ecosystems, our population here in the Bahamas is well-positioned to capitalize on this market.

The JSL Party will engage with international buyers and investors looking for high-quality offsets by:

• Selling Carbon Credits to Corporations: Many multinational companies seek to neutralize their emissions through carbon offsets. By marketing its carbon credits to these corporations, The Bahamas can secure direct financial payments.
• Structured Eco-Tourism and Carbon Neutral Programs: The Bahamian tourism industry can offer visitors the opportunity to offset their carbon footprint by purchasing credits that support local conservation efforts.
• Direct Foreign Investment in Carbon Projects: International environmental organizations and governments may provide funding for carbon sequestration initiatives in exchange for a share of the generated credits.

The JSL Party will develop a national framework that regulates and promotes carbon credit trading through:

•  Implementing Policy and Legislation: Establishing laws that recognize carbon credits as financial assets and creating a national registry for carbon sequestration projects.
• Ingaging A Carbon Market Participation:  The JSL will Partner with international carbon trading platforms, such as the United Nations' REDD+ program, the Voluntary Carbon Market, or regional carbon exchanges.
• Supplying Certification and Verification: The JSL ensuring that Bahamian carbon sequestration projects meet international standards, such as those set by the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) or Gold Standard, to attract reputable buyers.

The Bahamas possesses various ecosystems that serve as powerful carbon sinks. The JSL will continue to preserve and restore these areas.  We will generate significant carbon credits and financial returns by implementing additional policies for:

• Mangrove Reforestation: Mangroves absorb large amounts of CO2, making them prime candidates for carbon credit programs. By expanding protected mangrove areas, The Bahamas can increase its carbon credit potential.
• Seagrass Protection: Seagrass meadows capture vast amounts of carbon and provide critical marine habitats. Establishing marine conservation areas that protect seagrass beds can qualify for carbon offset payments.
• Forest Conservation: While our nation has limited terrestrial forests, preventing deforestation and land degradation can contribute to carbon sequestration efforts.

The JSL will ensure that our carbon credit market is sustained and it's revenue benefit Bahamians directly by. 

• Reinvesting in Environmental Protection: Use carbon credit funds to finance conservation projects, sustainable infrastructure, and renewable energy initiatives.
• Supporting Local Communities: Create jobs in conservation, such as mangrove restoration, carbon credit management, and eco-tourism.
• Establishing a Carbon Credit Fund: A national carbon credit fund can distribute earnings fairly and support community-based environmental initiatives on an annual basis.