Nulla Carbon

Nulla Carbon is a Human-Induced Regeneration (HIR) project located across an expansive area surrounding Cunnamulla in the Paroo Shire of south-west Queensland. It was registered in September 2015 and covers approximately 60,189 hectares.

Human-Induced Regeneration projects involve establishing permanent, even-aged native forests through assisted regeneration from in-situ seed sources, such as rootstock and lignotubers. The methodology requires that the project occurs on land previously cleared of vegetation where regrowth was suppressed for at least 10 years prior to commencement. Regeneration is achieved by modifying land management practices; for Nulla Carbon, this includes ceasing the mechanical or chemical destruction of regrowth, carefully managing the timing and extent of livestock grazing, and humanely controlling feral animals.

The Paroo Shire region is known for its agricultural industry, primarily cattle and sheep grazing on native vegetation such as mulga. The environment is semi-arid with highly variable, low rainfall, typically averaging around 400mm annually, and the area frequently experiences severe droughts. Soils in this region often feature hard red earths that are prone to soil capping, which can create barriers to water infiltration following heavy rains.

Since its registration, the project has seen several variations to its boundaries and participants. Originally involving multiple Dunsdon Family Trusts, the project is now managed by proponents Lanin Holdings Pty Ltd and Ninal Ventures Pty Ltd. Interestingly, in June 2018, the Clean Energy Regulator issued a notice requiring one of the original participants, Geoff Dunsdon Pty Ltd, to relinquish 434 Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) associated with the project. In the voluntary market, ACCUs generated by Nulla Carbon have been actively traded and retired; for example, 330 units were retired in 2022 to offset a Climate Active "Innovation Showcase" event.