Greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide and methane, contribute to global warming, altering weather patterns and exacerbating climate change. Human activities such as agriculture directly drive these emissions, prompting international frameworks to address the crisis.
The United Nations established the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) to enable developed nations to meet emission targets by funding projects in developing countries that reduce or capture greenhouse gases. This system, known as "cap and trade," allows nations exceeding limits to offset emissions through verified climate initiatives.
CDM projects span 15 sectors, including agriculture, energy, and waste management. Key steps involve project design, validation, monitoring, verification, and certification of Certified Emission Reductions (CERs). Each CER represents one tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent, valued between $3 and $20.
In Kenya, agricultural CDM initiatives demonstrate tangible climate and economic benefits. The Simgas biogas project reduces 45,156 metric tonnes of CO2 annually, while Muhoroni sugar bagasse cogeneration cuts 15,056 tonnes. Other examples include biomass briquettes, reforestation, and waste-to-energy systems.
Small-scale farmers face barriers to CDM participation due to limited awareness and technical complexity. Collaborative programs and simplified frameworks could expand access, aligning climate action with rural economic development.
