'The Elements' Carbon Project

The Elements' Carbon Project is an environmental planting project located near Tylden, approximately 11km south of Kyneton in the Macedon Ranges region of Central Victoria. Registered in June 2022, the project covers an area of 20.99 hectares.

The project operates under the Reforestation by Environmental or Mallee Plantings (FullCAM) methodology. This type of project involves establishing permanent plantings of a mix of native tree and shrub species on land that was predominantly used for agricultural purposes for at least five years prior to commencement. These environmental plantings must be established at specific densities, typically aiming for at least 200 stems per hectare, and are designed to form a forest cover that can reach at least 2 metres in height and 20% crown cover.

The Kyneton and Tylden area is characterised by a cool climate and reliable high rainfall. The region supports a strong agricultural base, predominantly focused on beef and sheep grazing, broadacre cropping, and small-scale horticulture. Soils in the area are complex and variable, often consisting of heavy basaltic grey and black clays near Kyneton, while red gradational or duplex soils predominate further south around Tylden.

Notably, the proponent, Mette Schepers, established this project with the support of a grant from the Australian Government's Agriculture Biodiversity Stewardship - Carbon + Biodiversity Pilot program. An experienced financial services executive, Schepers has used her property as an educational case study for local farmers. She has spoken at local agricultural events, such as the GROW Plant Hub, sharing her experience and advocating for environmental plantings as an accessible, low-barrier way to integrate carbon sequestration and biodiversity outcomes without requiring onerous third-party management.