Santander and Las Tapias Renewable Energy Project

This project focuses on Santander Ceramic Factory, a red ceramic industry situated in the Soacha municipality within the state of Cundinamarca - Colombia.

Santander specializes in the production of ceramic bricks, primarily destined for the regional market in the metropolitan area of Bogotá.

The project mitigates the adverse effects associated with coal usage, a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change and a common practice in the region.

A large amount of coal is burned in traditional kilns as common practice in Colombian ceramic factories and Santander is the only factory out of 50 in the region using renewable biomass.

In contrast to the established baseline, the project optimizes thermal energy by utilizing biomass residues-sawdust, wood residues, and pulp and paper sludge-as the primary fuel source for ceramic kilns, replacing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly coal.

This project activity reduces 26,136 tCO2/year through the substitution of coal for renewable biomasses to generate thermal energy.

As the first Gold Standard-certified project in Colombia, Santander Ceramic emphasizes its commitment to sustainability and adherence to the highest international standards in carbon reduction and environmental responsibility.

The project positively benefits the local community with:

- Reforestation initiatives: by setting up and maintaining its own nursery, the community
can grow native trees and plants, contributing to the restoration of local ecosystems and the
preservation of the biodiversity;

- Donation of bricks and other construction materials to a local school from the village of Fuzunga;

- The project assists stray dogs from the region, as there is no rescue initiative or shelter in the region.

Project Impacts and Benefits

SDG 13 - Climate Action: The project activity reduces 26,136 tCO2/year through the substitution of coal for renewable biomasses to generate thermal energy, contributing to the shift away from fossil fuels, an essential aspect of promoting sustainable energy practices.

SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy: The use of renewable biomass, including paper sludge, sawdust, and wood waste, contributes to cleaner and more sustainable energy generation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This promotes the transition to renewable energy sources and improves energy efficiency. 

SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth: Providing training and capacity-building courses to employees help develop their skills and increase their opportunities for growth in the labor market. This promotes quality employment and fosters the community's economic development. 

Certification documents for this project are available in the Gold Standard Impact Registry

Vintages of credits: 2020
N.B.  Individual vintages cannot be selected for purchase. Purchases will include credits from the vintage range stated.