Over the next five years, the Province of West Flanders will invest €45,000 annually in projects that store carbon in local agricultural soils. Through this investment, it aims to offset around 40% of the annual CO₂ emissions from its provincial buildings locally. Towns and municipalities in West Flanders can also join the initiative through a group purchasing scheme organised by the Province.

The framework contract was awarded to CLAIRE CO₂, which is working with Boerenbond, the Soil Service of Belgium and Inagro. Farmers receive support to retain more carbon in their soils. This not only delivers climate benefits but also improves soil quality and water management. CLAIRE CO₂’s approach is clear: first, reduce your own emissions as much as possible, then offset the remaining emissions locally and measurably. This keeps investment within the region while supporting agriculture, the climate and the local environment.

Could this approach also work in your province, town or municipality? CLAIRE CO₂ helps public authorities set up local offsetting projects, from strategy and project development to measurement and verification. Contact christoph@claire-co2.com to discover how we can create local climate impact together.