RETURN TO THICKET
Our Vision
To restore vast areas in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa from a highly degraded state to their original pristine condition, characterised by dense, thriving growth of indigenous trees and shrubs.
Return to Thicket serves as a catalyst, facilitator, advisor and active participant in the restoration of degraded thicket and the generation of carbon credits according to the specific needs of each restoration project.
THE CONSERVATION AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Overstocking with goats has transformed vast areas of dense, forest-like thicket in the Eastern Cape into a desert-like landscape, releasing over 350 tonnes of CO₂ per hectare.
Restoration is cost-effective using spekboom (Portulacaria afra) cuttings, which capture carbon efficiently, avoid nursery costs and survive drought and fire. There are over one million hectares suitable for restoration.
Such restoration could generate over half a billion carbon credits. Large-scale planting is labour-intensive and would create thousands of jobs.
BENEFITS OF LARGE-SCALE RESTORATION
Boosts livestock, game farming and ecotourism
REALISING THE OPPORTUNITY THROUGH RETURN TO THICKET REQUIRES EXPERTISE IN THE FOLLOWING FIELDS:
SPEKBOOM AND THICKET ECOLOGY
Successful restoration of Subtropical Thicket landscapes depends on deep ecological understanding. Spekboom cuttings establish and thrive only under specific soil, slope, and microclimatic conditions. Identifying these niches and tailoring planting protocols accordingly ensures high survivorship and long-term ecosystem recovery. This ecological precision underpins the project’s measurable carbon and biodiversity outcomes.
CARBON ACCOUNTING IN ECOSYSTEMS
Reliable climate impact requires rigorous quantification. Return to Thicket applies science-based carbon accounting to measure changes in biomass and soil organic carbon over time, following Verra’s VM0047 methodology. Through repeat sampling, remote sensing, and verified data systems, the project ensures that every tonne of carbon credited reflects genuine and durable sequestration.
THE BUNDLING OF PROJECTS TO CREATE ECONOMIES OF SCALE
The transaction costs of bringing high-integrity carbon credits to market are substantial. To address this, Return to Thicket employs a grouped-project structure that allows multiple farms and landowners to participate under one verified framework. This approach reduces administrative costs, enhances consistency, and scales impact across thousands of hectares — making restoration financially viable while maintaining scientific and social integrity.
THE CARBON MARKET
Effective participation in carbon markets requires strategic positioning and trust. Return to Thicket targets premium buyers and marketplaces that value integrity, traceability, and co-benefits for people and biodiversity. By aligning with recognised standards and transparent reporting, the project ensures that its credits command long-term credibility and contribute meaningfully to global climate and restoration goals.
Carbon credits may be issued through the Verified Carbon Standard project (Project ID: 5808) for the greenhouse gas reductions or removals associated with Return to Thicket (Pty) Ltd through the restoration of degraded Subtropical Thicket using Portulacaria afra.