“Demonstrating the positive impact of sustainable practices on economic growth”

Toni Heigl, Founder and CEO of CarbonWise Consulting

Exclusive interview with Toni Heigl, founder and CEO of CarbonWise Consulting and a speaker at the upcoming Carbon Markets Africa Summit in Johannesburg. 

Interview Summary: Toni Heigl, founder and CEO of CarbonWise Consulting, discusses the company’s role in advancing carbon markets, particularly in Africa. With around 80% of their projects based on the continent, CarbonWise focuses on integrating economics, ecology, and social inclusion in areas like e-mobility, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions. Heigl highlights Africa’s strong position in the global carbon market due to its young population, rapid growth, and abundant renewable resources. Success stories include emission-free vehicle fleets, solar power, and industrial improvements. 
 

Key challenges include navigating complex regulations and ensuring financial stability for long-term projects. Countries such as Ghana, Zambia, and Uganda are leading in Article 6 frameworks. Heigl will speak at the Carbon Markets Africa Summit, emphasizing urban sustainability and the need for collaboration across stakeholders. He sees the event as a crucial platform for building partnerships that can drive impactful climate solutions and economic growth. 

Q. Thank you for joining us. Please can we start with some background about you and your role at CarbonWise Consulting. 

Thank you for having me. I appreciate the opportunity to share my background. I am the founder and CEO of CarbonWise Consulting. Throughout my career, I have always been driven by a desire to challenge the status quo, especially when confronting urgent issues that demand our attention. The evolution of climate change into a recognized climate crisis has profoundly resonated with me, both in scientific discussions and public consciousness. 

As an engineer and project manager, I feel a strong sense of responsibility—not only in my professional role but also as a global citizen—to contribute positively to solutions in this critical area. This passion for making a difference inspired me to establish several start-up ventures, including CarbonWise Consulting. Here, my goal is to facilitate meaningful change in carbon markets and drive impactful solutions that address climate challenges. 

Q. Tell us about CarbonWise Consulting's services and the industries that you work in. 

At CarbonWise Consulting, we focus primarily on Africa, where we operate as both consultants and investors. Our vision is to integrate economics, ecology, and social inclusion in our projects. We are pioneers in the realm of regulated international carbon markets, specifically Article 6, and we are proud to have one of the world’s first validated and authorised mitigation activities. This positions us at the forefront of shaping this evolving sector. 

Our unique expertise and practical experience allow us to collaborate effectively with partners and clients to develop and implement projects that yield sustainable benefits for both society and the environment. We concentrate on key areas such as e-mobility, renewable energy, and nature-based solutions, particularly in rapidly growing markets within developing and emerging countries. 

Q. What percentage of your work is in Africa? 

About 80% of our project work happens in Africa. South Asia and Latin America play a minor role for us. 

Q. How important is the continent for the future of carbon markets? 

Africa plays a crucial role in the future of carbon markets. It is home to some of the fastest-growing economies, driven by a young and dynamic population. This demographic advantage, coupled with the emerging recognition of future markets on the continent, presents significant economic potential. Additionally, Africa is rich in renewable energy resources, making it an ideal epicentre for carbon markets in the coming decades. The combination of these factors positions Africa as a key player in the global transition towards sustainable practices. 

Q. What are some of your favourite success stories in Africa that you can share? 

Africa has produced remarkable entrepreneurial achievements, particularly in sectors such as fintech, media, telecommunications, and the gig economy. The continent is often described as leapfrogging technologically, showcasing innovation that surpasses many parts of the world. We are proud to have contributed to several of these success stories by integrating carbon revenues into emission-free vehicle fleets, both on land and on water, as well as through solar power installations and improvements in industrial processes. These initiatives not only highlight Africa's potential but also demonstrate the positive impact of sustainable practices on economic growth. 

Q. You are working in a system that is constantly evolving and changing. What are the main challenges in your view? 

Our mission is to build bridges and foster collaboration for climate action, acknowledging that global challenges require global solutions. We operate within a highly specialized, formalized, and regulated environment, which demands both perseverance and resilience. One of the primary challenges we face is ensuring financial stability for every programme that we set up as we navigate the often lengthy yet rewarding process of implementing carbon mitigation projects. This requires us to remain adaptable and committed, as we work to drive meaningful change in a constantly evolving landscape. 

Q. How is Africa positioned in your view to take advantage of this burgeoning opportunity? And which countries on the continent are doing the right things to prepare for carbon markets? 

Africa is strategically positioned to seize the emerging opportunities in carbon markets. Countries such as Ghana, Zambia, and Uganda have made notable advancements in developing Article 6 frameworks and attracting impactful projects, serving as pioneers in this field. While there is potential for further acceleration, the continent has established a strong and influential presence in the carbon market arena. With ongoing commitment and collaborative efforts, Africa can enhance its role and drive significant progress in sustainable development and climate action. 

Q. You are a speaker at the inaugural Carbon Markets Africa Summit. Why the decision to join this climate change journey with VUKA Group? 

I chose to join as a speaker at the inaugural Carbon Markets Africa Summit because complex carbon programs require collaboration among multiple stakeholders and a foundation of trust among all partners. Personal interactions are essential for building these relationships. I appreciate the approach and structure of the CMAS, viewing it as a crucial platform for strengthening the carbon market community. I wish everyone involved a successful event and look forward to the growth that will follow. 

Q. You are part of a sector-focused dialogue in the programme focusing on “Urban Carbon & Circular Economy.” What will be your message at the event? 

My message at the event will focus on the rapid urbanization occurring across nearly all African countries. We have been collaborating with our partners on various aspects of urban development, including city mobility, carbon-related issues in the construction sector, energy management, and recycling and waste management. These elements are intricately connected within the broader framework of city management. During the dialogue, I aim to explore how we can effectively manage these interrelated challenges, ensure they are well integrated, and identify the key priorities that need to be established for sustainable urban development. 

Q. What are your expectations of CMAS? 

I expect CMAS to facilitate the building of new connections and the reinforcement of existing relationships within the industry. By consolidating and aligning our alliances, we can strengthen the regulated carbon markets, as addressing the challenges in this sector requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders involved. 

Q. How important is such an event for the continent? 

Regional events have certainly played a role in addressing local issues, but their impact can often be limited. In contrast, global events tend to focus on high-level discussions that may hardly or at least very slowly translate into practical solutions. Given Africa's crucial role in addressing the climate crisis, this conference is particularly significant. I look forward to leveraging this platform to forge new project alliances, partnerships, and financial agreements that can drive meaningful change across the continent.