The scheme, the Global Carbon Monitoring System, to use satellites to monitor forest cover, carbon output and illegal logging across the area is part of the Global Initiative on Forests and Climate, which is designed to support sustainable forest management reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“This new Global Carbon Monitoring System will be supported by remote sensing satellite monitoring technology and on-the-ground carbon accounting activities,” said Australia’s minster for foreign affairs Alexander Downer.
“By providing better access to historical data and providing timely access to new data, it will support countries’ efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation.”
Australia has set aside A$200m funding for the Global Initiative on Forests and Climate, which it is inviting other countries to become involved with to “link national, regional and international systems to create a truly global system”.