A carbon credit project in Northern Kenya, backed by corporate giants like Netflix and Meta, is in the spotlight again after leading global carbon certifier Verra placed it under formal review for a second time.
The Northern Kenya Rangelands Carbon Project, coordinated by the conservation group Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), has been suspended from selling new credits pending the outcome of the review.
Since its inception in 2012, the project has sold tens of millions of dollars’ worth of carbon credits to companies looking to offset their carbon emissions.
These companies include streaming giant Netflix and social media company Meta.
Also Read: Northern Rangelands Trust Loses License in Landmark Ruling
Why the Project has Been Suspended
In an emailed statement to Mongabay, Verra confirmed that the project was on hold following a court ruling in January 2025.
The court ruling questioned the legality of two of the conservancies involved, specifically Biliqo Bulesa Conservancy in Isiolo County.
Consequently, it found that the conservancies had been established without proper public participation, a decision that NRT unsuccessfully attempted to challenge through a stay application.
“The project proponent, Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), is involved in a legal case that resulted in a court ruling in January 2025.
“We understand that the stay has been dismissed. Therefore, Verra has moved to formally place the project on hold,” Verra stated.
Also Read: EXPLAINER: Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Credits
How the Netflix, Meta Project Operates
The Biliqo Bulesa Conservancy generates carbon credits by managing livestock grazing routes across the rangelands.
However, the legal challenge, brought to court by 165 pastoralists, raised questions about the legitimacy of how the conservancy was established.
This marks the second time Verra has suspended the project. In 2023, Verra paused credit issuance after advocacy groups raised concerns about the credibility of the project’s methodology.
However, the suspension was lifted after the issues were reportedly resolved.
The project’s developer, a climate-focused corporation called Native, told Mongabay that it expects Verra’s review will result in a second reinstatement.
“As with the previous Section 6 review, which concluded with all findings closed and credit issuance reinstated, we are engaging constructively with Verra and expect a similarly transparent and timely process,” stated Native.
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