The Wet Tropics of Queensland is home to the Daintree Rainforest — arguably the world’s oldest living rainforest and one of its most biodiverse. Rainforests like the Daintree play a critical role in regulating the planet’s climate, protecting biodiversity, and supporting Indigenous cultures and communities. But like many vital ecosystems, the region faces growing threats from climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable land use.
That’s where the Rainforest Conservation Foundation (RCF) steps in. With a bold vision to restore rainforest ecosystems at scale, RCF is piloting a new model for reforestation: one that is financially sustainable, technology-enabled, and capable of having real impact in the Wet Tropics and beyond.
Over the course of eight weeks, our team in Sydney worked side by side with RCF to sharpen their approach to revenue generation, land access, and financing, which are three key enablers for their large-scale reforestation plans. We brought our climate and sustainability expertise to the table to help RCF define a clear, focused strategy and build strong foundations for growth.
Oliver Wyman became deep subject matter experts within a short period of time. We can’t thank you enough and very much look forward to continuing to work with you throughout this processAnthony Gellert, Chairperson, Rainforest Conservation Foundation (RCF)
We developed targeted pitch documents that RCF can now use to approach potential sponsors, funders, and landowners, helping them tell their story in a compelling and professional way. These materials are not just about funding; they are tools for unlocking partnerships that will make rainforest restoration possible at the scale our planet needs.
Importantly, our work helped confirm what RCF had hoped: large-scale rainforest reforestation in Australia can be financially sustainable, especially when carbon and nature markets are part of the solution.
We brought the best of our global Climate and Sustainability Practice to do three things: define what it would take to launch a pilot program, explore how carbon and other nature credits could help finance it, and identify high-profile partners to unlock land access and fundingRoss Eaton, Partner, Oliver Wyman
Armed with this clarity and momentum, RCF is now moving toward a pilot project that will bring their vision to life. We’re proud to have played a role in helping them take this vital next step toward restoring the Wet Tropics and setting a powerful example for ecosystem restoration worldwide.
Contributing to real innovation in rainforest reforestation was exciting and rewarding. I left this project with a renewed passion for Australia’s spectacular environment — and proud of the tangible impact our team madeLochie Bown, Senior Consultant, Oliver Wyman