Forestry manager EFM has teamed up with Sojitz Corporation to create a US climate and carbon solutions investment venture which aims to raise $200m (€175.2m).

The newly created EFM Sojitz Management venture expects to raise initial capital from Sojitz, Fuyo General Lease and other global investors, with plans to engage a diverse investor group, mainly from Japan and international markets, the pair said.

The venture intends to acquire and sustainably manage US forestland in β€œclimate resilient” regions for timber production and carbon credit generation.

Bettina von Hagen, CEO of EFM, said: β€œEFM’s mission is to create financial value from investments in forests alongside positive environmental and social impact. Partnering with Sojitz allows us to expand our climate-smart forestry model, mobilise capital at scale – including in key growth markets like Japan – and provide investors with access to high-quality carbon credits that also support biodiversity, water resources, and rural jobs.”

Koji Aonuma, general manager of energy transformation department at Sojitz, said: β€œWe are excited to work with EFM, whose deep industry knowledge and impact-driven approach align closely with our vision for a sustainable, low-carbon future.

β€œBy combining EFM’s extensive knowledge and experience with Sojitz’s domestic and international business networks, built through its existing businesses, we aim to form a large-scale fund and create value in collaboration with a diverse range of investors, primarily Japanese companies.”

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