Carbon Forestry 2025: Young Professionals Share Their Insights

In August 2025, more than 300 leaders, investors, policymakers, and practitioners gathered in Rotorua for the Carbon Forestry 2025 Conference. The event, hosted by Innovatek, is one of the most important annual forums for the forestry sector, bringing together national and international voices to explore how carbon forestry can drive climate solutions, support landowners, and strengthen rural economies.

This year’s programme offered a wealth of insights. Attendees learned the latest on the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), discovered the opportunities in the growing voluntary carbon markets, and explored how policy and technology are helping forestry play an even bigger role in reducing New Zealand’s emissions. International perspectives were a highlight, including a keynote from Spencer Meyer of BeZero Carbon in the US, who explained how high-quality and verified carbon credits are shaping the global market.

With dynamic policy updates, innovative technologies, and increasing global demand for credible carbon credits, the conference was a fantastic opportunity to connect with experts, exchange ideas, and gain fresh perspectives on the future of forestry in New Zealand.

WIDE Trust Supporting Emerging Leaders

The WIDE Trust is proud to have supported four young professionals to attend Carbon Forestry 2025:

• Ben Morrow, Senior Policy Analyst, MPI Te Uru Rākau

• Nik McCullough, Agribusiness Partner, BNZ

• George Fisher, Business Analyst, MyFarm Investments

• Xianye Wang, PhD Student, University of Canterbury

By funding their participation, WIDE Trust helped ensure that the next generation of leaders in forestry, agribusiness, and policy could engage directly with industry experts, grow their knowledge, and make valuable professional connections.

Reflections from the Delegates

Each of the WIDE Trust-supported attendees gained unique insights and experiences from the event.

Ben Morrow highlighted the importance of stability and clarity in carbon forestry policy. He noted that while reducing gross emissions remains a priority, biological carbon storage through well-managed forestry is a long-term strategic asset. Ben found the discussions on voluntary carbon markets particularly valuable, seeing them as a way for New Zealand to diversify revenue streams and demonstrate leadership in high-integrity carbon projects.

Nik McCullough shared his perspective from working closely with farming and forestry businesses in Southland. For him, the conference cemented his understanding of the ETS compliance market and opened his eyes to the opportunities within voluntary carbon markets. He also emphasised the immense networking value of the event, with “most of the key players in the carbon and timber sector” gathered under one roof.

George Fisher, who works in investments but had limited prior exposure to carbon forestry, found the conference to be an excellent introduction. Sessions on the ETS system, carbon flow modelling, and voluntary markets broadened his understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. He particularly valued the chance to meet and learn from others across the industry.

Xianye Wang approached the conference with an academic lens, focusing on the detail of government reforms and international rule-making. They described the conference mood as “steady and realistic” and noted that policy stability and quality standards will be critical for unlocking investment in carbon projects. Xianye’s insights underscored how regulatory clarity and improved measurement technologies will shape the sector’s future.

Why Events Like This Matter

For emerging professionals, being part of these conversations is invaluable. It helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, introduces them to leaders shaping the sector, and equips them with knowledge they can apply in their careers and communities.

WIDE Trust’s Ongoing Commitment

Supporting attendance at Carbon Forestry 2025 reflects the WIDE Trust’s commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. By providing opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth, the Trust ensures that New Zealand’s forestry and agricultural sectors are in strong hands for the future.

WIDE Trust remains dedicated to enabling young professionals to step up, contribute, and shape a more sustainable future.