V-Forest

V-ZUG has been pursuing ambitious climate targets in line with the SBTi since 2020. We reduce emissions along the entire value chain through measures relating to renewable energies, energy efficiency and the circular economy. A voluntary internal CO2 levy effectively supports this commitment by providing an incentive. With the V-Forest climate protection project, we also promote the reforestation of near-natural forests and biodiversity.

The V-Forest is located in Glen Lochay, Scotland, in the county of Perthshire. The Ripa Gar Foundation has already planted 800,000 trees on an area of around 700 football pitches under the supervision of the UK Woodland Carbon Code (WCC). The WCC is a British standard for reforestation projects and offers independent verification and validation of the amount of CO₂ captured by conscious forest management. Our contributions allow the local mixed forest (42% birch, 21% pine, 16% oak and other local plants) to continue to grow. Over the next 100 years, the area that has already been reforested will store around 210,000 tonnes of CO₂. In addition to the storage of CO₂, the project has other positive side-effects such as increased biodiversity, improved water quality, restoration of moorland and reduction of flooding. In this way, the local flora and fauna can flourish and nature can find its balance.

A comparable project of this magnitude would be difficult to achieve in Switzerland. But in addition to the required space, there are other reasons in favour of Scotland: favourable climatic conditions, good institutions and the necessary expertise. It will take a while before the climate contribution certificates from V-Forest can be used directly for the climate contribution. The trees have to grow more in order to be able to absorb the corresponding amount of CO₂.

During this transitional phase, Ripa Gar is supporting an additional reforestation project in India, making an additional climate contribution per tonne of CO₂ in addition to V-Forest. The project is certified according to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and listed on the UN Carbon Offset Platform. The corresponding CO₂ volume has already been realised. This commitment effectively makes a twofold contribution to climate action.

If you’re spending your holidays in Scotland and want to visit the V-Forest, the area is a great place to explore on foot. The starting point is the village of Killin, about two hours north of Edinburgh. Just before Kenknock there is a parking lot and from there it is about 9 km to the V-Forest, along the river Glenlochay. Feel free to contact us for tips and route suggestions.

Find out more about V-ZUG’s holistic approach to sustainability.