'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. It was registered on June 23, 2022, and covers an area of 20.99 hectares.

The project operates under the Reforestation by Environmental or Mallee Plantings (FullCAM) methodology. Environmental planting projects involve establishing permanent plantings of a mix of native tree and shrub species on land that was predominantly used for agriculture for at least five years prior to commencement. These 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 known for its strong agricultural base, which is predominantly focused on beef and sheep grazing, broadacre cropping, and small-scale horticulture. The region experiences a cool climate with reliable high rainfall. Soils in the area are complex and variable, often featuring heavy basaltic grey and black clays near Kyneton, while red gradational or duplex soils are more common further south around Tylden.

Notably, project proponent Mette Schepers established this initiative 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.