The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal: A Cardano-Powered Sustainability Solution

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Jeffrey Wise

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Paul Apao

Dominick Garey

Derrick Oatway

Jeffrey Wise

Wyatt Sharpley

Tyler Malin

Kathleen Dragoon

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We will build a user-friendly portal with a carbon calculator and payment integration, allowing travelers to offset emissions using fiat or cryptocurrency, exploring optimal payment solutions.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

Yes

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

We depend on integrating a secure payment processing framework to handle transactions in fiat and cryptocurrency. We will explore all viable options, including Stripe and other payment gateways, to select the most suitable solution during the development phase. Additionally, we collaborate with local Hawaiian farmers who implement carbon sequestration practices, ensuring that offset contributions directly support sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

No

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

We are committed to transparency and community engagement. Core components of our project, such as the carbon calculator algorithm and blockchain integration modules, will be open-sourced under the MIT License. This allows community verification and collaboration while protecting sensitive data related to user transactions. Proprietary components will include user data management and payment processing integrations to ensure security and compliance with regulations.

[METADATA] Horizons

Tourism

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Travelers often struggle to find straightforward methods to offset the carbon emissions generated by their flights, rental cars, and other tourist-related activities in Hawaii. Our solution is to develop the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal, a user-friendly online platform featuring a comprehensive carbon calculator to estimate emissions based on various travel details.

Key Components:

• Carbon Calculator:
• Accurate Emission Estimates: Provides precise calculations of carbon emissions based on user inputs such as flight details, rental car usage, and other travel activities.
• Open-Source Algorithm: The carbon calculation algorithm will be open-sourced under the MIT License, promoting transparency and community collaboration while allowing for external audits and improvements.

• Payment Integration:
• Secure Payment Processing: Explore and integrate a secure payment processing system capable of handling both fiat and cryptocurrency transactions.
• Evaluation of Options: Assess various payment gateways, including Stripe, PayPal, and blockchain-based options like USDM, to select the most suitable solution that aligns with user needs and our commitment to decentralization and security.
• Flexible Payment Options: Provide users with multiple payment methods to enhance accessibility and convenience, catering to both traditional and crypto-savvy users.

• Fund Management and Compliance:
• Escrow Fund Pool: Establish an escrow fund pool to manage contributions that exceed the immediate availability of carbon credits. This ensures that funds are securely held and transparently managed until carbon credits are generated and verified.
• Transparent Allocation: Implement clear guidelines and smart contract-based rules for the allocation and disbursement of funds from the escrow pool as carbon credits become available.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that fund management practices comply with relevant financial regulations and best practices, minimizing legal risks and maintaining stakeholder trust.

• Blockchain Integration with the Mālama Project:
• Transparent Transaction Recording: Leverage the existing Mālama Project on the Cardano blockchain to ensure all offset transactions are transparently and immutably recorded, enhancing trust and accountability.
• Support for Local Farmers: Facilitate the integration of local Hawaiian farmers into the platform, enabling them to adopt sustainable agricultural practices through carbon sequestration projects that are directly funded by user contributions.

• User Interface and Experience:
• Intuitive Design: Develop an intuitive and responsive design for seamless user interaction on both desktop and mobile devices, ensuring accessibility and ease of use.
• Continuous Improvement: Incorporate user feedback through iterative design processes to continuously enhance the platform’s functionality and user experience.

Unique Aspects:

• Direct Environmental Impact:
• Support for Carbon Sequestration: Contributions directly support carbon sequestration projects in Hawaii, enhancing local ecosystems and promoting sustainable agriculture.
• Transparency and Trust:
• Immutable Records: Utilization of the Cardano blockchain ensures transparent tracking of carbon offsets, building trust within the community regarding the effective use of funds.
• Scalability:
• Modular Design: The platform’s modular architecture allows for the integration of additional tourist-related emissions and the expansion to other destinations, thereby broadening its impact and utility.

Fund Management and Compliance Strategy:

• Escrow Fund Pool Implementation:
• Smart Contracts for Fund Allocation: Deploy smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain to manage the escrow fund pool, ensuring that funds are automatically allocated to carbon credit projects as they are validated and verified.
• Transparency in Fund Usage: Maintain transparent records of fund allocations and disbursements, accessible to users and stakeholders through the platform’s dashboard.
• Regulatory Compliance Measures:
• Legal Oversight: Our Compliance and Legal Engineer, Tyler Malin, will oversee all aspects of regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to financial regulations, data protection laws, and environmental standards.
• Regular Audits: Conduct regular financial and operational audits to ensure compliance and integrity in fund management, reinforcing stakeholder confidence.
• Handling Fund Surpluses:
• Strategic Reserve Management: Allocate a portion of the escrow fund pool as a strategic reserve to manage periods of high contributions relative to carbon credit generation rates.
• Dynamic Allocation Policies: Implement dynamic allocation policies that adjust fund disbursement rates based on real-time data on carbon credit generation, ensuring funds are utilized efficiently and responsibly.

Risk Management and Mitigation Strategies:

• Technical Risks:
• Risk: Challenges in integrating payment processors and blockchain technology.
• Mitigation: Employ experienced developers, conduct thorough testing, and maintain contingency plans with alternative solutions to ensure seamless integration.
• Regulatory and Legal Risks:
• Risk: Compliance with financial regulations and data protection laws.
• Mitigation: Legal oversight by our Compliance and Legal Engineer, Tyler Malin, to navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure adherence to all relevant laws.
• Operational Risks:
• Risk: Low user adoption or technical issues affecting user experience.
• Mitigation: Implement robust marketing strategies, provide excellent customer support, and conduct user testing to refine the platform.
• Security Risks:
• Risk: Potential cyber-attacks or data breaches.
• Mitigation: Implement industry-standard security measures, regular security audits, and data encryption protocols to protect user data and financial transactions.

Long-Term Vision:

• Expansion of Services:
• Additional Emission Types: Integrate features to offset other types of emissions, such as those from accommodations, activities, and corporate partnerships.
• Global Reach:
• New Destinations: Expand the platform to other tourist destinations, promoting sustainable travel practices worldwide and increasing the platform’s impact.
• Continuous Improvement:
• Regular Updates: Implement regular updates and enhancements based on user feedback and technological advancements to ensure the platform remains effective and user-friendly.

Success Metrics:

• Carbon Offsets Processed:
• Number of Offsets Processed: Track the total number of carbon offsets facilitated through the platform, ensuring transparency in the platform’s impact.
• Total Carbon Sequestered:
• Carbon Sequestration Volume: Measure the total amount of carbon sequestered through funded projects, directly linking user contributions to environmental outcomes.
• User Adoption Rates:
• Growth Metrics: Monitor user growth rates, transaction volumes, and engagement statistics to assess the platform’s adoption and usability.
• Fund Utilization Efficiency:
• Fund Allocation Transparency: Ensure that funds in the escrow pool are allocated efficiently and transparently to maximize environmental impact and maintain user trust.
• Platform Scalability:
• Integration of Additional Emissions: Evaluate the platform’s ability to integrate new types of emissions and expand to other destinations, ensuring long-term scalability and relevance.

Conclusion:

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal not only addresses a critical environmental need but also ensures the responsible and transparent management of user contributions through a robust fund management strategy. By leveraging Cardano’s blockchain for transparent transaction recording and establishing an escrow fund pool for compliant fund management, we build a trustworthy and scalable platform that supports sustainable tourism and contributes to global carbon reduction goals. This comprehensive approach positions the portal as a valuable addition to the Cardano ecosystem, fostering greater adoption and community engagement while making a meaningful environmental impact.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Positive Impacts:

Environmental Sustainability:

• Facilitation of Carbon Offsetting:
• Direct Contribution: The portal enables travelers to offset their carbon emissions from flights, rental cars, and other tourist activities, directly contributing to global sustainability goals.
• Support for Sustainable Practices: By funding carbon sequestration projects, the initiative supports local Hawaiian farmers in adopting and maintaining sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

Increased Cardano Adoption and Usage:

• Boost in On-Chain Transactions:
• Transparent Recording: Carbon offset purchases are recorded on the Cardano blockchain, increasing on-chain activity and demonstrating the practical utility of Cardano’s ecosystem.
• Scalability Demonstration: The platform showcases Cardano’s ability to handle secure, transparent transactions at scale, attracting more users and developers to the ecosystem.
• Attraction of Eco-Conscious Users and Developers:
• Engaging New Stakeholders: By addressing environmental sustainability, the portal attracts environmentally conscious individuals and organizations, expanding the Cardano community with stakeholders committed to positive global impact.

Community Engagement and Awareness:

• Promotion of Environmental Responsibility:
• Educational Initiatives: The portal raises awareness about the importance of carbon offsetting and sustainable practices within the Cardano community, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
• Practical Blockchain Applications: Demonstrates how blockchain technology can be effectively utilized to address real-world environmental challenges, encouraging further innovation and collaboration.

Economic Incentives:

• Financial Support to Farmers:
• Stable Income: Provides direct financial incentives to local Hawaiian farmers for their carbon sequestration efforts, enhancing their economic stability and promoting the adoption of sustainable farming practices.
• Economic Viability: By ensuring fair compensation, the initiative makes sustainable agriculture economically attractive, encouraging long-term viability and investment in environmental stewardship.

Sustainable Fund Management:

• Escrow Fund Pool:
• Handling Surpluses: Establishes an escrow fund pool to manage contributions that exceed the immediate availability of carbon credits, ensuring funds are securely held and transparently managed until credits are generated and verified.
• Compliance and Transparency: Implements clear guidelines and smart contract-based rules for fund allocation, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and maintaining stakeholder trust.

Measurement of Impact:

Quantitative Metrics:

• Number of Carbon Offsets Processed: Tracks the total number of carbon offset transactions facilitated through the portal, providing a clear measure of environmental impact.
• Total Carbon Sequestered (kg CO₂): Measures the total amount of carbon dioxide offset through funded projects, directly linking user contributions to environmental outcomes.
• On-Chain Transaction Volume: Monitors the number and value of transactions recorded on the Cardano blockchain related to carbon offsetting, indicating increased ecosystem activity.
• User Growth and Engagement: Tracks user registration, active usage rates, and engagement statistics to assess the platform’s adoption and community involvement.

Qualitative Metrics:

• User Feedback: Collects and analyzes user feedback on platform usability, effectiveness, and overall experience to identify areas for improvement and ensure user satisfaction.
• Farmer Testimonials: Gathers testimonials from Hawaiian farmers to evaluate the economic and operational benefits of the platform, highlighting the real-world impact of the initiative.
• Community Engagement Levels: Assesses participation in forums, social media interactions, and attendance at community events to gauge community support and involvement.

Sharing Outputs:

Transparent Fund Management:

• Escrow Pool Transparency: Provides detailed reports on the management and allocation of funds from the escrow pool, ensuring stakeholders understand how contributions are being utilized.
• Real-Time Dashboards: Develops dashboards that display real-time data on fund status, carbon offsets, and financial allocations, promoting transparency and trust.

Open-Source Components:

• Community Collaboration: Releases key modules such as the carbon calculator and blockchain integration under open-source licenses (e.g., MIT), inviting community collaboration and external audits to enhance platform credibility and innovation.
• Comprehensive Documentation: Provides thorough documentation and resources to support developers and users in understanding and utilizing the platform effectively.

Regular Updates and Reports:

• Impact Reports: Publishes detailed quarterly reports outlining achievements, financial expenditures, and progress towards milestones, accessible to the entire Cardano community.
• Scalability and Sustainability Reports: Shares updates on scalability efforts, including the integration of additional emission types and expansion to new destinations, demonstrating the platform’s growth and long-term sustainability.

Community Engagement:

• Educational Webinars and Workshops: Hosts regular webinars and workshops to educate users about carbon offsetting, sustainable practices, and the benefits of using the portal.
• Active Participation in Community Events: Engages with the Cardano community through events, social media, and forums to share progress, gather feedback, and foster a sense of collective ownership and support.
• Success Stories and Case Studies: Highlights success stories and detailed case studies from farmers and users to illustrate the platform’s effectiveness and inspire further participation.

Conclusion:

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal not only addresses a critical environmental need but also aligns seamlessly with Hawaii’s progressive stance on cryptocurrency. Hawaii is actively pursuing its vision to become a crypto-friendly state, recognizing the potential of blockchain technology to drive economic and environmental innovation without the need for importing or exporting cryptocurrencies. In this context, Cardano stands out as the sustainable blockchain solution Hawaii requires. Unlike proof-of-work (PoW) blockchains such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, which have significant carbon footprints and are not feasible in the race to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, Cardano’s proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism offers a much more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.

By leveraging Cardano’s low-energy, scalable, and secure blockchain infrastructure, the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal demonstrates how blockchain can be harnessed to support sustainable tourism and carbon offsetting effectively. This initiative not only supports Hawaii’s ambition to become a leading crypto state but also showcases Cardano’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. As Hawaii progresses toward its net-zero goals, the integration of Cardano-powered solutions like the Carbon Offset Portal will be instrumental in ensuring that blockchain technology contributes positively to global environmental efforts, making Cardano the preferred blockchain for sustainable and impactful projects.

By aligning with Cardano's values of transparency, sustainability, and community collaboration, the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal aims to foster greater adoption and engagement within the ecosystem. Through meticulous fund management, robust measurement of impact, and active community involvement, the project not only addresses environmental challenges but also enhances the practical utility and reputation of the Cardano blockchain in real-world sustainability efforts.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Team Expertise and Experience

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal is led by a highly skilled and diverse team with extensive experience in blockchain technology, sustainable development, design, compliance, and marketing. Our collective expertise ensures that every aspect of the project, from technical development to community engagement, is managed by professionals committed to delivering a successful and impactful solution.

• Project Leadership: Our Project Lead has a proven track record in sustainable development and blockchain innovation, having successfully co-founded and led the Mālama Project.
• Technical Development: Our Full Stack Cardano Developers specialize in Plutus smart contracts and decentralized applications, ensuring robust blockchain integration and secure transactions.
• Design and User Experience: Our UI/UX Designers and Graphic Designers are experts in creating intuitive and visually appealing interfaces, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction.
• Legal and Compliance: Our legal expert ensures full regulatory compliance, navigating complex legal landscapes to protect the project from potential risks.
• Marketing and Outreach: Our Marketing Director has extensive experience in digital marketing and community engagement, driving effective outreach and user acquisition strategies.
• Sustainable Agriculture: Our Eco-Friendly Farming Expert provides invaluable insights into sustainable farming practices, ensuring that our carbon sequestration projects are both effective and verifiable.

Trust and Accountability

• Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully implemented and led the Mālama Project, demonstrating our capability to manage and deliver complex blockchain-based sustainability projects with integrity and efficiency.
• Transparent Processes: We prioritize transparency by open-sourcing key components such as the carbon calculator and blockchain integration modules. Additionally, all carbon offset transactions are immutably recorded on the Cardano blockchain, ensuring transparency and accountability.
• Robust Security Measures: We implement industry-standard security protocols, conduct regular security audits, and utilize data encryption to protect user data and financial transactions, safeguarding against potential cyber threats and data breaches.
• Regulatory Compliance Plan: With our legal expert overseeing compliance, we ensure full adherence to financial regulations, data protection laws, and environmental standards. Regular compliance audits are conducted to maintain adherence to legal requirements.
• Escrow Fund Pool: Our established escrow fund pool, managed by smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain, ensures that funds are securely held and transparently allocated, even in cases of fund surpluses. This system guarantees responsible fund management and regulatory compliance.

Feasibility Validation

• Technical Roadmap: We have developed a detailed technical roadmap outlining our strategies for blockchain integration, payment processor selection, and platform development. This roadmap includes clear timelines and deliverables aligned with our project milestones, ensuring systematic progress and timely achievement of objectives.
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Comprehensive risk assessments are conducted at each project phase, identifying potential challenges and developing robust mitigation strategies. This proactive approach ensures that we can address issues swiftly and maintain project continuity.
• User Testing and Feedback: Extensive usability testing is conducted with a diverse group of users to validate the platform’s functionality and user experience. User feedback is systematically collected and incorporated into the development process to refine and enhance the portal’s features.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: We have formal agreements with local Hawaiian farmers and collaborate with environmental organizations to ensure that our carbon sequestration efforts are effectively implemented and verified. These partnerships provide essential support and resources, enhancing the project’s feasibility and impact.
• Continuous Improvement: Our development process includes iterative testing, user feedback incorporation, and regular updates to ensure the platform remains effective and user-friendly. This commitment to continuous improvement validates our approach and adapts to evolving user needs and technological advancements.

Fund Management and Accountability

• Escrow Fund Pool: Establishing an escrow fund pool managed by smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain ensures that contributions exceeding immediate carbon credit availability are securely held and transparently allocated as credits are generated.
• Smart Contracts: Automated smart contracts manage fund allocation based on predefined rules, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and transparent disbursement of funds. This reduces the risk of mismanagement and enhances accountability.
• Regular Audits: We conduct regular financial and operational audits to ensure that funds are used as intended and that all transactions are transparent and compliant with regulatory standards.
• Detailed Reporting: Comprehensive project reports and real-time dashboards provide visibility into fund utilization, project progress, and impact metrics. This ensures that all stakeholders are informed and can trust the platform’s operations.

Conclusion

By leveraging our team's extensive expertise and maintaining stringent standards of trust and accountability, the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal is well-positioned to deliver a successful project that provides significant value to the Cardano ecosystem. Our structured approach to fund management, robust security measures, regulatory compliance, and continuous validation of our methods ensure that the project is feasible, sustainable, and impactful. We are confident in our ability to achieve our project goals and contribute positively to both the Cardano community and global environmental sustainability efforts.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Finalize Design and Requirements

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Completed design prototypes.
• Detailed requirement specifications.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• Approved design documents.
• Finalized feature list, including a comprehensive plan for payment processor evaluation.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Design documents and requirement specifications approved by the project team.
• Sign-off from key stakeholders on design and requirements.

Payment Processor Evaluation and Selection

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Comprehensive analysis of payment processing options.
• Decision on the optimal payment processor(s) for integration.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• Evaluation report comparing options like Stripe, PayPal, and blockchain-based gateways (e.g., USDM).
• Selected payment solution meets security, compliance, and user experience requirements.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Payment processor selection document.
• Letters of intent or agreements with selected payment service providers.

Develop Carbon Calculator and Payment Integration

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Functional carbon calculator component.
• Integrated payment form with the selected processor.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• Carbon calculator accurately estimates emissions based on user input.
• Payments are processed securely and correctly in both fiat and cryptocurrency.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Demo of carbon calculator and payment processing functionality.
• Test transactions demonstrating successful payments.

Implement Fund Management and Escrow Pool

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Established escrow fund pool for managing contributions exceeding immediate carbon credit availability.
• Smart contracts deployed for transparent and compliant fund allocation.
• Guidelines and protocols for fund management and disbursement.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• Escrow pool is operational and securely holds surplus funds.
• Smart contracts function correctly, automating fund allocation based on carbon credit generation.
• Compliance with financial regulations and transparent fund management practices.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Deployment records of smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain.
• Documentation outlining fund management protocols and escrow pool operations.
• Compliance audit report confirming adherence to relevant financial regulations.

Frontend Development and User Interface

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Complete frontend with integrated carbon calculator and payment form.
• Responsive design optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• User interface is intuitive, visually appealing, and fully functional.
• Frontend passes usability testing with positive feedback from a diverse user group.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• User testing feedback reports demonstrating high usability and satisfaction.
• Deployed frontend on a staging environment with successful functionality tests.
• Final design assets and user interface documentation.

MVP Launch, Marketing Initiation, and Project Close-out

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Deployed Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal.
• Initiation of comprehensive marketing campaigns to drive user adoption.
• Project Close-out Report and Video summarizing achievements and future plans.
• B: Acceptance Criteria
• Portal is live, accessible to users, and operational without critical issues.
• Initial user engagement metrics and transaction processing meet predefined targets.
• Submission of a detailed Project Close-out Report and an informative video presentation to the Catalyst community.
• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Live website URL and access logs demonstrating portal functionality.
• User feedback and initial transaction data showcasing platform usage.
• Final Project Close-out Report and video presentation shared with the Cardano community.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Project Team and Roles

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal team comprises dedicated and experienced professionals with diverse expertise in blockchain technology, sustainable development, design, compliance, and marketing. Our collective skills and commitment ensure the successful development and deployment of the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal, seamlessly integrating it into the existing Mālama Project framework.

Core Team Members

Jeffrey Scott Wise – Project Lead

• Role: Oversees overall project development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning.
• Responsibilities:
• Manage project timelines and deliverables.
• Coordinate with team members and external partners.
• Align project goals with Cardano’s ecosystem.
• Background:
• Entrepreneur and co-founder of the Mālama Project with a strong background in real estate, agroforestry, and blockchain innovation.
• Active in PANOPTES, a citizen science project promoting public involvement in astronomy.
• Extensive experience in sustainable development and business innovation in Hawaii and Idaho.

Dominic "Dagwell" Garey – Full Stack Cardano Developer

• Role: Manages blockchain integration, smart contract development, and NFT issuance.
• Responsibilities:
• Develop and deploy Plutus smart contracts for carbon credit tokenization.
• Ensure secure and transparent blockchain transactions.
• Integrate Cardano functionalities within the portal.
• Background:
• Expert in the Cardano ecosystem, specializing in Plutus smart contracts and decentralized applications.
• Co-founder of Gotchi Labs LLC with a proven track record in integrating decentralized technologies with real-world applications.

Chad Dickson – Graphic Designer and Community Educator

• Role: Enhances visual design, user experience, and community education.
• Responsibilities:
• Develop and implement graphic design elements for the portal and marketing materials.
• Educate audiences about blockchain and sustainability through simplified visuals.
• Host community events and "edutainment" programs.
• Background:
• Skilled graphic designer with a passion for integrating technology and creativity.
• Experienced in marketing and SMB development, actively contributing to Cardano’s social media and community expansion.

Tyler Malin – Entrepreneur and Attorney

• Role: Oversees legal aspects, ensuring regulatory compliance and integrating blockchain into community-driven initiatives.
• Responsibilities:
• Navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure compliance with all relevant laws.
• Draft and review contracts, manage legal risks, and oversee legal agreements.
• Provide guidance on compliance strategies for carbon credits and blockchain transactions.
• Background:
• Accomplished entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in project development, sustainability markets, and business strategy.
• Co-founder of the Mālama Project, integrating blockchain into sustainable initiatives.
• Extensive legal expertise with a JD from Fordham University and involvement in over 20 blockchain projects.

Derrick Oatway (Alpine) – Full Stack Developer/Engineer

• Role: Responsible for front-end and back-end portal development, user interface implementation, and middleware integration.
• Responsibilities:
• Develop and maintain the frontend and backend of the portal.
• Ensure seamless integration with backend services and blockchain.
• Implement UI/UX designs to enhance user experience.
• Co-design system architecture.
• Background:
• Visionary full-stack developer and blockchain advocate.
• Co-founder of the Mālama Project, developing tools that empower farmers in Hawaii.
• Combines practical craftsmanship with advanced technology to create impactful systems.

Kathleen Dragoon – UI/UX Designer

• Role: Enhances the user interface and overall user experience of the portal.
• Responsibilities:
• Translate executive vision into intuitive and visually appealing designs.
• Create user-friendly interfaces that simplify complex functionalities for users.
• Conduct usability testing and incorporate feedback to continuously improve the portal’s design.
• Background:
• Talented UI/UX designer with a background in acting, theater, writing, and computer animation.
• Experienced in graphic design and user-centered design principles.
• Passionate about creating meaningful and relevant user experiences, ensuring the portal is accessible and engaging for all users.

Wyatt Sharpley – Marketing Director

• Role: Handles community outreach and user acquisition efforts.
• Responsibilities:
• Develop and execute comprehensive marketing campaigns.
• Engage with the Cardano community and potential users.
• Manage promotional activities to drive adoption.
• Background:
• Experienced in digital marketing, brand development, and community engagement.
• Bridges the gap between technology and end-users, fostering meaningful connections and driving project growth.

Paul Apao – Eco-Friendly Farming Expert / Hawaii Landowner

• Role: Provides insights into sustainable farming practices and assists with landowner engagement.
• Responsibilities:
• Advise on sustainable land management and carbon sequestration techniques.
• Engage with local landowners to promote portal adoption.
• Ensure carbon sequestration efforts meet verification standards.
• Background:
• Experienced farmer and advocate for eco-friendly agriculture in Hawaii.
• Brings practical knowledge of sustainable farming and strong connections with the local landowner community.

Agueda Sanchez - Lead Product Manager 

• Role: Responsible for delivering seamless, intuitive user experiences for MĀLAMA’s suite of applications, enhancing engagement through thoughtful design and product management strategies. Lead the design and development of intuitive, accessible, and user-friendly interfaces that facilitate sustainable practices, carbon tracking, and land resource management. Work closely with engineers, designers, sustainability experts, and external partners to align on product requirements, usability, and market relevance.

• Background: Expert in creating user-centered AI products and services, prioritizing privacy, usability, and accessibility. Guides organizations in developing ethical AI solutions with a focus on data privacy and user experience.

• Note: Agueda is available to join the project as a Lead Product Manager, she will support the team with strategic planning, team coordination, and efficient execution.

Team Enhancements and Recruitment

Since the last funding round, we have strategically expanded our team by adding specialists in UI/UX design and user journey mapping. Kathleen Dragoon, our new UI/UX Designer, and Agueda Sanchez, our User Journey Specialist, have been consulted and are now integral parts of our team. Their expertise in design and user experience is crucial for refining the portal’s interface and ensuring seamless interaction.

Engagement with Technical Groups and Communication Channels

Our team has actively engaged with relevant members of the Cardano technical group channels, including Discord and Telegram. We maintain direct lines of communication with key individuals and resources required for the project’s success. This proactive engagement ensures that we have the necessary support, expertise, and collaboration from the Cardano community, enabling us to navigate challenges efficiently and leverage community-driven resources effectively.

Proof of Team Engagement and Capacity

All team members have been formally engaged and have confirmed their willingness and capacity to support the project. We have secured commitments from each member to dedicate their expertise and time to ensure the project’s timely and successful execution. This level of preparedness underscores our understanding of the project’s requirements and our capability to mobilize resources effectively upon receiving funding.

Conclusion

The Malama Project team is uniquely positioned to deliver the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal successfully. With a proven track record, a diverse and experienced team, and a comprehensive approach to trust, accountability, and regulatory compliance, we are confident in our ability to achieve the project’s goals. Our strategic recruitment and active engagement with the Cardano community further enhance our capacity to deliver impactful and sustainable solutions that benefit both the Cardano ecosystem and the broader environmental landscape.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Total Budget Requested: 100,000 ADA

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal is designed to prioritize direct financial support for carbon sequestration projects while maintaining minimal overhead costs. By aligning our budget directly with project milestones and leveraging existing resources, we ensure that each phase is adequately funded to achieve its objectives effectively and transparently. This structured approach enhances accountability and facilitates easier monitoring and reporting.

Milestone 1: Finalize Design and Requirements (₳8,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Completed design prototypes.
• Detailed requirement specifications.

• B: Budget Allocation
• Design Prototyping: ₳4,000
• Developer and designer time for creating prototypes.
• Minimal costs for design iterations.
• Requirement Specification: ₳4,000
• Documentation services.
• Stakeholder meetings and consultations.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Approved design documents.
• Signed-off requirement specifications by key stakeholders.

Milestone 2: Payment Processor Evaluation and Selection (₳10,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Comprehensive analysis of payment processing options.
• Decision on the optimal payment processor(s) for integration.

• B: Budget Allocation
• Evaluation and Analysis: ₳5,000
• Research and comparison of payment processors (Stripe, PayPal, USDM).
• Consultation fees with payment processing experts.
• Integration Planning: ₳5,000
• Documentation of integration requirements.
• Initial setup and configuration costs.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Payment processor selection document.
• Letters of intent or agreements with selected payment service providers.

Milestone 3: Develop Carbon Calculator and Payment Integration (₳25,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Functional carbon calculator component.
• Integrated payment form with the selected processor.

• B: Budget Allocation
• Carbon Calculator Development: ₳12,000
• Developer time for building and testing the carbon calculator.
• Licensing fees for any necessary software or APIs.
• Payment Integration: ₳13,000
• Developer time for integrating payment processors.
• Security measures and compliance tools for payment processing.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Demo of carbon calculator and payment processing functionality.
• Test transactions demonstrating successful payments.

Milestone 4: Implement Fund Management and Escrow Pool (₳20,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Established escrow fund pool for managing contributions exceeding immediate carbon credit availability.
• Smart contracts deployed for transparent and compliant fund allocation.
• Guidelines and protocols for fund management and disbursement.

• B: Budget Allocation
• Escrow Pool Setup: ₳8,000
• Smart contract development and deployment.
• Initial funding and configuration of the escrow pool.
• Fund Management Protocols: ₳7,000
• Development of guidelines and operational protocols.
• Consultation with financial and regulatory experts.
• Compliance and Audits: ₳5,000
• Legal and compliance services to ensure adherence to regulations.
• Regular audits to maintain transparency and accountability.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Deployment records of smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain.
• Documentation outlining fund management protocols and escrow pool operations.
• Compliance audit report confirming adherence to relevant financial regulations.

Milestone 5: Frontend Development and User Interface (₳13,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Complete frontend with integrated carbon calculator and payment form.
• Responsive design optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.

• B: Budget Allocation
• Frontend Development: ₳10,000
• Developer time for building and optimizing the frontend.
• Tools and software licenses for frontend development (e.g., React, Next.js).
• UI/UX Design Enhancements: ₳3,000
• Designer time for creating and refining user interfaces.
• Usability testing and iterative design improvements.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• User testing feedback reports demonstrating high usability and satisfaction.
• Deployed frontend on a staging environment with successful functionality tests.
• Final design assets and user interface documentation.

Final Milestone: MVP Launch, Marketing Initiation, and Project Close-out (₳24,000)

• A: Milestone Outputs
• Deployed Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal.
• Initiation of comprehensive marketing campaigns to drive user adoption.
• Project Close-out Report and Video summarizing achievements and future plans.

• B: Budget Allocation
• MVP Launch: ₳7,000
• Deployment costs for the live portal.
• Server and hosting fees for the initial launch phase.
• Marketing Campaigns: ₳12,000
• Digital advertising (social media, Google Ads).
• Content creation (videos, infographics, success stories).
• Project Close-out: ₳5,000
• Preparation of detailed project reports.
• Production of a video presentation summarizing the project’s journey and impact.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion
• Live website URL and access logs demonstrating portal functionality.
• User feedback and initial transaction data showcasing platform usage.
• Submitted Project Close-out Report and video presentation shared with the Cardano community.

Budget Justification and Alignment with Milestones

• Direct Allocation to Milestones: Each budget item is directly tied to a specific milestone, ensuring that funds are allocated in a structured and transparent manner.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Includes essential elements such as development, design, payment integration, compliance, marketing, quality assurance, and risk management.
• Third-Party Products and Services: Clearly outlined within each milestone, specifying tools, software licenses, and professional services required.
• Efficiency and Impact: Prioritizes direct support for carbon sequestration projects while maintaining minimal overhead, maximizing the environmental and economic impact of each ADA invested.

Additional Information

• Third-Party Products and Services:
• Payment Processors: Stripe, PayPal, USDM for handling fiat and cryptocurrency transactions.
• Design Tools: Already owned; no additional costs allocated.
• Project Management Tools: Already owned; no additional costs allocated.
• QA Tools: Selenium, Jest for automated testing.
• Marketing Platforms: Facebook Ads, Google Ads, social media management tools.
• Compliance Tools: Legal software for drafting and reviewing contracts.

• Alternative Funding Sources:
• Self-Funding and In-Kind Contributions: Team members have committed to contributing their time and expertise.
• Additional Grants and Sponsorships: Exploring opportunities with environmental foundations and blockchain sustainability initiatives to secure supplementary funding if necessary.

Conclusion

By directly allocating funds to specific milestones and leveraging existing software and licenses, the Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal ensures transparent, accountable, and efficient use of resources. This structured approach aligns with our mission to develop a sustainable and user-friendly carbon offset platform, providing clear visibility into how each ADA contributes to achieving our project goals. Our meticulous planning, combined with a dedicated and experienced team, guarantees that the project will deliver significant environmental and economic benefits to the Cardano ecosystem and the broader community.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal offers exceptional value for money by addressing a critical environmental need through a strategically designed, scalable, and blockchain-based solution that leverages Cardano’s inherent strengths. Our carefully structured budget of ₳100,000 ADA is allocated to ensure the development of core functionalities—carbon calculation, secure payments, and blockchain integration—while maintaining flexibility for design, testing, and compliance. Each cost allocation is thoughtfully determined based on the specific requirements of each milestone, ensuring that funds are utilized efficiently to maximize impact and drive project success.

Strategic Budget Allocation:

Direct Alignment with Milestones:

• Structured Funding: Each budget item is directly tied to a specific milestone, ensuring that funds are allocated in a structured and transparent manner. This alignment guarantees that every phase of the project receives the necessary resources to achieve its objectives effectively.
• Total Allocation: The total budget of ₳100,000 ADA is distributed across five key milestones and a final milestone, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all essential project components.

Efficient Use of Resources:

• Leverage Existing Infrastructure: By utilizing the Mālama Project’s existing infrastructure and resources, we significantly reduce development time and costs. This strategic use of existing assets allows us to allocate more funds directly to impactful project areas, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Minimal Overhead: The budget is designed to maintain minimal overhead by leveraging already-owned tools and licenses, focusing funds on critical development and operational needs rather than unnecessary expenditures.

Cost-Effective Development:

• Competitive Rates: While we have not conducted a formal benchmarking against average wage rates, the budget allocations are based on a thorough assessment of project requirements and industry standards for similar blockchain and sustainability projects. This ensures that the costs are proportionate to the scope and complexity of each milestone.
• Targeted Investments: Investments are directed towards high-impact areas such as blockchain integration, secure payment processing, and robust fund management, ensuring that each ADA invested drives meaningful progress and tangible results.

Maximizing Impact:

• High-Quality Outcomes: Allocating ₳25,000 ADA to the development of the carbon calculator and payment integration ensures the creation of a reliable and user-friendly tool that accurately estimates carbon emissions and facilitates secure transactions. This high-quality outcome is essential for user trust and platform adoption.
• Sustainable Fund Management: ₳20,000 ADA dedicated to implementing fund management and the escrow pool guarantees transparent and compliant handling of contributions, fostering trust and accountability within the Cardano community.

Scalability and Long-Term Value:

• Modular Design: The portal’s modular architecture allows for future expansions to other destinations and emission types without significant additional costs. This scalability ensures that the initial investment supports long-term growth and adaptability, enhancing the overall value proposition.
• Future-Proofing: By investing in comprehensive testing, quality assurance, and risk mitigation (₳10,000 ADA), we ensure that the platform remains robust, secure, and capable of handling increased usage as the project scales.

Impact on the Cardano Ecosystem:

Environmental Sustainability:

• Carbon Offsetting: Enabling travelers to easily offset their carbon emissions directly contributes to global sustainability goals. This fosters greater engagement with Cardano’s ecosystem and enhances its reputation as a blockchain committed to environmental responsibility.
• Support for Local Farmers: By providing financial support to local Hawaiian farmers for sustainable practices, the project not only benefits the environment but also strengthens the local economy and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.

Increased Cardano Adoption and Usage:

• On-Chain Activity: Carbon offset purchases recorded on the Cardano blockchain increase on-chain activity, demonstrating practical utility and showcasing Cardano’s scalability and security.
• Attraction of Eco-Conscious Users: Engaging environmentally conscious travelers and local farmers attracts new users and stakeholders to the Cardano ecosystem, expanding the community with individuals and organizations committed to sustainability and climate goals.

Community Engagement and Awareness:

• Promoting Sustainability: Raising awareness about carbon offsetting and sustainable practices within the Cardano community demonstrates real-world applications of blockchain technology in addressing environmental challenges.
• Educational Initiatives: Hosting educational webinars, workshops, and community events fosters a deeper understanding and engagement with both blockchain technology and sustainability efforts.

Economic Incentives and Resilience:

• Financial Support to Farmers: Providing direct financial incentives to local farmers for their carbon sequestration efforts enhances economic stability and promotes sustainable farming practices.
• Resilience through Sustainability: Supporting sustainable agricultural practices contributes to environmental resilience, ensuring that the local ecosystem can better withstand and adapt to climate-related challenges.

Value Justification and Strategic Allocation:

• Direct Allocation to Milestones: Ensures that each ADA is spent on specific, impactful project areas, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of fund utilization.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Addresses all essential elements of the project, including development, design, payment integration, compliance, marketing, quality assurance, and risk management, ensuring a well-rounded and robust project execution.
• Third-Party Products and Services: Clearly outlines necessary tools, software licenses, and professional services within each milestone, ensuring that all external dependencies are accounted for and funded appropriately.
• Efficiency and Impact: Prioritizes direct support for carbon sequestration projects, maximizing the environmental and economic impact of each ADA invested while maintaining minimal overhead costs.

Conclusion:

The Hawaii Carbon Offset Portal represents a high-value investment for the Cardano ecosystem, delivering significant environmental and economic benefits while ensuring efficient and transparent use of funds. Our strategic budget allocation, combined with an expert team and a scalable, high-impact solution, ensures that each ADA invested drives meaningful change and promotes the widespread adoption of Cardano’s blockchain technology. This project not only addresses a critical environmental challenge but also sets the stage for future sustainability initiatives within the Cardano community, aligning with global climate goals and enhancing the ecosystem’s reputation as a leader in blockchain-based environmental solutions.