The Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) and Artha Networks Inc. are excited to announce a new partnership aimed at scaling up private sector investments in sustainable forest management and climate action across Asia. This collaboration represents a significant step toward integrating impact-driven financing into nature-based solutions (NbS) through forest restoration and conservation, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection efforts.
Why This Partnership Matters
AFoCO has long been committed to advancing forest-based solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Through grant-based Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects, AFoCO has successfully piloted and demonstrated climate-resilient forest management practices across its member countries. However, the increasing urgency of the climate crisis necessitates a shift towards a more sustainable and scalable financing model—one that engages private sector participation and mobilizes diverse financial resources.
This is where Artha Networks Inc. steps in. A global leader in impact investment and blended finance, Artha Networks specializes in structuring innovative financing models in microfinance, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. With its vast network of mission-aligned investors, Artha is well-positioned to support AFoCO in leveraging private capital for long-term sustainability and greater impact.
Through this partnership, AFoCO and Artha Networks will collaborate to:
- Drive private sector partnerships that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through NbS.
- Connect with diverse investors and stakeholders committed to forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, carbon emission reduction, and securing livelihoods.
- Leverage Artha’s global network to mobilize funding for AFoCO operations and Member Country projects.
- Develop innovative financing mechanisms that blend public and private sector resources for sustainable forest management.
Mr. Kenneth Hynes, CEO and co-founder of Artha Networks; Dr. Audrey Selian, Managing Director and co-founder of Artha Networks;
Mr. Keyvan Izadi – Climate and NBS advisor at Artha Networks; Mr. Kwang Kim, Chairman of the Board at the Human Flourishing Foundation of the Economics of Mutuality Alliance
Looking Ahead: Scaling Impact
Over the past week, AFoCO and Artha Networks have been discussing approaches to catalyze innovative financing solutions that not only support forest conservation but also drive climate resilience and sustainable development. AFoCO will actively working to scale up its projects by integrating Market-based Solutions (MbS) and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), establishing structured benefit-sharing mechanisms, and ensuring governance frameworks balance forest protection with local livelihoods. This partnership is a key pillar of the AFoCO Forest Climate Strategy, emphasizing NbS as a powerful tool to enhance Asia’s forests as climate assets.
The journey has just begun! By bringing together governments, businesses, and investors, AFoCO and Artha Networks are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future. Stay tuned!
