Which is more profitable -  a live or dead rainforest?

John Goedschalk, Founder of Bio Tara and former Executive Director of Conservation International looks at how Bitcoin can empower these local forest communities, getting their products to market faster, and providing them with a currency that is not subject to 60% a year inflation, which is what his country, Suriname, has been going through.

Suriname's forests absorb more carbon than the population generates, making it carbon negative.

John has always been passionate about saving the trees and likens himself to The Lorax, a character who speaks for the trees. John believes that if we don't save the forests, there's not much that will keep us going on this planet.

BIOTARA provides communities with the tools, education, technology, and access to finance needed to create their own factories and processing plants. They ensure that every kilogram of oil or butter is sold even before it's produced. This approach ensures conservation, restoration, and community benefits. John emphasizes that BIOTARA is not an NGO but a business partner offering services to communities.

John discusses the challenges of working with investors who want to see revenue before investing. He believes in building a system with the right foundations before scaling up. John is currently making oils and butters out of his garage while developing the necessary technology and social safeguards.

Traceability is a crucial aspect of their work, especially with the EU deforestation regulation requiring proof that products come from non-deforested areas.

We discuss the importance of clean cosmetics and the need for more safe products for both adults and children.

John shares his experiences with the challenges of the banking system in Suriname, where many people are unbanked and unbankable. He believes that a stable currency like Bitcoin could provide solace to people in Suriname, who have been dealing with high inflation and currency devaluation.

We discuss the potential of Bitcoin and other digital currencies in empowering communities and creating circular economies. They also talk about the importance of education and ensuring that people understand and trust these new systems.

✅ Follow John Here:
https://www.johng.earth
https://Biotara.earth
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-goedschalk-3a5349/

🔥 LISTEN TO EPISODE HERE

(00:00:01) Introduction and Guest Overview

(00:01:25) Meet John Godchalk: CEO and Cofounder of BIOTARA

(00:02:09) John's Mission: Saving the Forests and Empowering Communities

(00:06:02) BIOTARA's Projects and Impact

(00:10:37) Challenges and Investor Perspectives

(00:13:58) Traceability and Blockchain Technology

(00:22:06) Cost and Benefits of Traceability

(00:27:04) Digital Wallets and Financial Inclusion

(00:35:02) Suriname's Financial Landscape and Bitcoin

(00:46:07) Current Payment Methods and Challenges

(00:51:08) Blockchain for Traceability vs. Monetary Transactions

(00:57:03) Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

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