Project Details

The Paulownia Partners pilot project in Maine-et-Loire (49), France, establishes a 1.3-hectare regenerative agroforestry system integrating 750 NordMax21® Paulownia trees within an orchard landscape bordered by native hedgerows. Planted in 2024, the plantation uses high-performance hybrids supplied by WeGrow and follows biomass-strengthening practices, including a strategic above-ground cut in spring 2025 to stimulate root development and accelerate future growth cycles. The site serves as a scalable demonstration of high-density Paulownia integration into mixed orchard systems. The first selective harvest is planned for 2034, after which 80% of the trees will regrow naturally through coppicing while 20% are replaced by native hardwoods to enhance ecological resilience. Harvested timber will be processed locally into long-lived building materials, contributing to durable carbon storage and supporting circular bioeconomy objectives.

About the Remover

Paulownia Partners, founded by Rodolphe de Candé, develops climate-positive land-use solutions and provides advisory services for the transition to a sustainable economy. As project owner and remover, Paulownia Partners oversees plantation operations, land stewardship, project coordination, and full compliance with ONCRA monitoring and reporting requirements. The company collaborates with expert partners such as Arbre Paulownia—exclusive distributor of NordMax21® trees in France—and WeGrow, the global supplier of Paulownia planting material. Through rigorous site management, data collection, and transparent verification practices, Paulownia Partners ensures the ongoing delivery of high-quality atmospheric carbon removals and long-term ecological co-benefits.

Paulownia Partners – Pilot project

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