Forward-thinking companies are stepping up to take climate action beyond their value chains. These actions target residual and historical emissions while investing in solutions to remove excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This approach highlights the critical role of nature-based solutions (NbS).
What is beyond value chain mitigation (BVCM)?
Beyond value chain mitigation (BVCM) refers to climate actions taken by companies that go beyond reducing direct (Scope 1), indirect (Scope 2), and value chain (Scope 3) emissions.
It involves investing in initiatives like nature-based solutions that mitigate the effects of historical emissions and address residual emissions that cannot yet be eliminated through decarbonisation efforts.
As part of its own standards, the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) actively encourages companies to adopt BVCM, recognising it as a vital component of comprehensive climate strategies that align with broader global goals. BVCM is essential for achieving global climate objectives and ensuring a sustainable future.
Why BVCM is critical
- Thermal inertia is working against us
Even if all emissions stopped today, global temperatures would still rise by another 0.6°C due to heat stored in our oceans. This phenomenon, known as thermal inertia, underscores the urgency of acting immediately to minimise further warming. - Residual and historical emissions persist
While companies aim to transition to net-zero by 2040 or 2050, residual emissions will remain during the transition period. Moreover, historical emissions have already driven atmospheric CO2 levels to 420 ppm, far exceeding the safe threshold of 350 ppm. Addressing these legacy emissions is a critical step to mitigating the climate crisis. - Natural solutions take time
Nature-based solutions, such as forest restoration, take years or even decades to deliver measurable impacts. By acting now, companies give these solutions the time needed to mature and achieve their full potential. - Waiting is costly
As demand for carbon credits grows and supply remains limited, prices are expected to rise significantly. Early investment in high-quality projects not only secures impactful outcomes but also mitigates financial risks associated with delayed action.

Nature-based solutions: a crucial bridge
Nature-based solutions offer scalable and effective ways to combat the climate crisis. Research shows that restoring 0.9 billion hectares with one trillion trees could capture up to 226 gigatonnes of carbon. Their benefits extend beyond carbon:
- Biodiversity protection: Forests serve as critical habitats and combat species loss.
- Water cycle restoration: Healthy forests improve water retention and quality.
- Resilient ecosystems: Forest restoration enhances overall ecosystem health and climate resilience.
These co-benefits underscore why nature-based solutions must complement decarbonisation efforts.
Pathways to effective BVCM with WeForest
WeForest partners with companies to facilitate impactful BVCM through two primary pathways:
- Carbon credit pathway:
- Purchase carbon credits from WeForest’s projects to neutralise residual emissions.
- Support host countries’ climate adaptation and mitigation goals.
- Non-carbon credit pathway:
- Fund cost-effective forest landscape restoration projects without certification costs.
- Contribute to biodiversity, soil restoration, water access, and community livelihoods.
Both pathways adhere to Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) principles, ensuring ecological resilience and long-term sustainability. Rigorous monitoring and evaluation provide transparency and accountability.
Five steps to meaningful climate action
For companies ready to lead on BVCM, WeForest recommends the following structured approach to guide their climate action initiatives and ensure impactful outcomes:
- Measure and disclose emissions: Include Scope 1, 2, and 3 residual emissions, as well as historical emissions. Accurate measurement and transparency build trust and provide a solid foundation for targeted climate action.
- Allocate a climate budget: Use an internal carbon price or dedicate a percentage of revenue to climate initiatives. Proactively setting aside resources ensures sustained impact over time.
- Commit to a clear BVCM pledge: Establish timelines and measurable targets that align with your organisation’s broader sustainability goals. Clear commitments signal leadership and accountability.
- Fund high-quality climate initiatives: Prioritise projects with proven methodologies that deliver tangible mitigation outcomes and co-benefits such as biodiversity restoration.
- Communicate transparently: Share progress, successes, and learnings with stakeholders to build credibility and inspire collective action.
Scaling climate action for smaller businesses and non-aligned companies
While many large companies align with the SBTi, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can also drive significant change. For instance, if Europe’s 230,000 medium-sized companies restored 20,000 trees annually each, they could add 5.6 billion trees to global restoration efforts every year.
Global platforms like 1t.org and 1% for the Planet simplify the process for businesses of all sizes to take action, providing frameworks to scale commitments and amplify impact.

Why act now?
Achieving net-zero is a long-term journey, but the climate crisis demands immediate action. By investing in beyond value chain solutions today, companies can:
- Mitigate residual and historical emissions.
- Support biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Protect against future costs and risks associated with delayed action.
Nature-based solutions are cost-effective, scalable, and holistic. Together, we can restore ecosystems, sequester carbon, and build a sustainable future.
Join the movement
Your company has the power to lead. By partnering with WeForest, you can make a tangible impact on the planet while strengthening your sustainability strategy. Let’s work together to grow forests and combat climate change—because the climate crisis can’t wait.
Contact our team today to explore how your organisation can contribute to a greener, healthier future.