Karbon Ledger: Bridging the Gap to Carbon Neutrality

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Vinay Devabhakthuni

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[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)

Karbon Ledger offers a protocol suite for realtime emissions tracking, carbon credit trading, and regulatory compliance, ensuring accuracy, transparency & accountability in carbon neutrality pursuits.

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

No

[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.”

No Dependencies

[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

License Statement for the Karbon Ledger Project

Our project, Karbon Ledger for the Cardano blockchain, is dedicated to open-source principles and community collaboration. To align with these values, we have chosen to release all project outputs under the Apache License 2.0. This license is well-recognized within the open-source community and provides both freedom and protection for contributors and users alike.

Under the Apache License 2.0, the following terms apply to all project outputs:

• License Grant: Users have the right to use, reproduce, prepare derivative works, publicly display, publicly perform, sublicense, and distribute the software and such derivative works in source or object form.

• Patent Grant: The license provides an express grant of patent rights from contributors to users, ensuring freedom from patent litigation over the contributions.

• Contribution: Contributions made to the project are accepted under the same license, without any additional terms or conditions.

• Protection: The license provides protections against claims of trademark infringement for reasonable use of the project's name or trademarks.

• No Warranty: The project is provided on an "AS IS" BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied, including, without limitation, any warranties or conditions of TITLE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY, or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

The full license details and terms will be included in the LICENSE file in the root directory of our project repository, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all project participants.

By choosing the Apache License 2.0, we aim to foster an open and collaborative environment that encourages innovation, contribution, and the free use of software while providing an assurance of legal protection for all.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.

We at Karbon Ledger understand the challenges that the current carbon market faces. That's why we've developed an innovative solution that's not just another tool, but a comprehensive system designed to bring about real change.

Our solution, the Karbon Ledger Protocol Suite, is a cutting-edge blend of blockchain technology, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) algorithms. Here’s how we’re making a difference:

• User-Friendly Interface: We know that the best technology is user-friendly. That’s why we've designed an intuitive dashboard. Whether you're a carbon market expert or new to the field, our pla tform is easy to navigate and use.

• Comprehensive Smart Contracts: From tracking emissions to trading carbon credits, our suite of smart contracts automate and streamline the entire process. This not only saves time but also reduces the potential for human error.

• Blockchain-Powered Transparency: At the heart of our solution is a blockchain framework that ensures every carbon emission and credit transaction is transparent and tamper-proof. This means stakeholders can fully trust the integrity of the data.

Future Enhancements :

• Real-Time Data with IoT: We're leveraging IoT devices to monitor carbon emissions in real-time. This isn't just about collecting data, it's about gathering accurate and timely insights that can drive actionable decisions.

• AI/ML for Smarter Decisions: Our AI/ML algorithms analyze the vast amounts of data collected. This helps in optimizing strategies for carbon emission reduction and energy efficiency, ensuring that decisions are not just data-driven, but also smart and future-ready.

In essence, we're not just tackling the symptoms of the problem; we're addressing the root causes. By bringing in transparency, accuracy, and efficiency, we're transforming the way the carbon market operates, making it more reliable and effective in the fight against climate change.

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

• Demonstrating Cardano’s Capabilities: We’re excited to showcase Cardano's strength in handling real-world challenges, especially in environmental sustainability. Our project will highlight how Cardano can drive impactful innovations.
• Boosting Community Engagement: We aim to involve the Cardano community deeply in our journey, enhancing awareness and engagement around sustainability.
• Encouraging Technological Adoption: By integrating advanced blockchain applications in the environmental sector, we’re positioning Cardano as a leader in blockchain innovation, fostering its growth.

Measuring Impact

• API Usage: One of the key metrics we'll be tracking is the number of API calls to our system. This gives us a direct measure of engagement and utilization of our services. By monitoring the frequency and volume of API usage, we can gauge the level of interest and reliance on our platform within the Cardano ecosystem.
• Dashboard User Growth: The number of users on our dashboard is a straightforward metric indicating our platform's adoption and reach. We aim to see a steady increase in users, reflecting the growing interest and participation in sustainable practices within the Cardano community.
• Carbon Credits Traded: Tracking the volume and value of carbon credits traded on our platform. This metric directly reflects the economic activity generated and the extent of engagement in carbon offsetting practices within the Cardano community.
• Number of Offset Projects Registered: Monitoring the number of carbon offset projects that register and get validated on our platform. This indicates the growth of the ecosystem and the diversity of solutions being employed for carbon neutrality.
• Stakeholder Participation: Measuring the number and diversity of stakeholders (such as businesses, NGOs, governmental bodies) actively participating in our platform. This demonstrates the reach and inclusivity of Karbon Ledger in addressing carbon neutrality.
• Community Initiatives Launched: Counting the number of community-driven initiatives or campaigns launched via our platform. This can include awareness drives, educational programs, or community carbon reduction challenges.
• Partnerships Formed: The number of strategic partnerships formed with other entities (like technology providers, environmental organizations, or academic institutions) can be a strong indicator of the platform's influence and network.

Sharing Our Impact:

• Regular Reporting: We'll provide regular reports detailing these key metrics, offering the community a transparent view of our progress and impact.
• Community Engagement: We plan to actively engage with the Cardano community through forums, social media, and webinars to not only share these metrics but also to gather feedback and suggestions.
• Collaboration Opportunities: By sharing our achievements and challenges, we aim to open up new avenues for collaboration and innovation within the Cardano ecosystem.

[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?

Capability to Deliver the Karbon Ledger Project

Our journey with the Harithakanthi program, in association with TREES, has been a profound learning experience. Planting 2 million trees and being on track for 2 million more by end of 2024, we've gained invaluable insights into environmental projects' challenges, especially in auditing and maintaining transparency. This experience has been pivotal in shaping our approach to the Karbon Ledger project.

Why We're Best Suited:

• Proven Track Record: Our successful ongoing commitment to the Harithakanthi program demonstrates our ability to manage large-scale environmental projects. We understand the nuances and complexities involved in such initiatives.

• Understanding of Challenges: Working closely with TREES has given us a firsthand understanding of the challenges in auditing environmental projects and the gaps in transparency in the carbon market. This knowledge is crucial in developing a solution like Karbon Ledger.

• Integrated Technology Approach: Recognizing the limitations of existing systems, we've committed to an integrated technology approach, incorporating IoT, AI/ML, and blockchain. This not only makes our approach more robust but also future-proof.

Partnership Synergy:

• TREES (Execution Partner): Their experience in environmental protection activities adds immense value, ensuring that our project is grounded in practical environmental conservation strategies.

• Konma (Technology Partner): We bring expertise in integrating complex systems for optimal functionality.

• Cardano (Blockchain Partner): Utilizing the Cardano blockchain ensures that our project is built on a secure, scalable, and sustainable platform.

• Blue Brett (Compliance and Management Partner): Their role in ensuring compliance and proper management is crucial for maintaining transparency and accountability.

Trust and Accountability Measures:

• Regular Audits and Reports: We'll conduct regular audits and provide transparent reports on our progress and fund usage. This will include detailed accounting of all expenditures and milestones achieved.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Regular updates and open forums for stakeholder engagement will ensure that we remain accountable to our community and partners.
• Transparent Fund Management: We will implement strict fund management protocols, with oversight from Blue Brett, to ensure that every ADA allocated is used responsibly and effectively.
• Performance Metrics Tracking: We'll continuously monitor and report on performance metrics, such as the number of trees planted, carbon credits generated, and API usage. This will not only demonstrate our progress but also keep us accountable to our goals.
• Adaptive Project Management: Recognizing the dynamic nature of such a project, we'll employ an adaptive project management approach, allowing us to adjust our strategies as needed while keeping our stakeholders informed.

In conclusion, our experience, combined with a strong partnership network and a commitment to transparency and accountability, makes us uniquely positioned to deliver the Karbon Ledger project successfully. We understand the challenges and have the capabilities to address them effectively, ensuring high levels of trust and accountability in our endeavor.

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

Development of Energy Consumption Monitoring Smart Contract and Protocol

• Duration: Month 1
• Objective: Develop and test a smart contract for real-time energy consumption monitoring.
• Team Involved: 3 Haskell devs, 1 Full stack dev, overseen by the Project Manager.
• Acceptance Criteria: Successfully integrate the smart contract with IoT devices for accurate data collection and processing.

Development of Renewable Energy Integration Smart Contract and Protocol

• Duration: Month 2
• Objective: Create a smart contract for tracking and verifying renewable energy production and consumption.
• Team Involved: 3 Haskell devs and Project Manager.
• Acceptance Criteria: Ensure the contract facilitates trading of renewable energy in the marketplace and interacts seamlessly with existing infrastructure.

Development of Compliance Monitoring and Reporting Smart Contract and Protocol

• Duration: Month 3
• Objective: Develop a smart contract for monitoring and reporting compliance with environmental standards and ESG framework.
• Team Involved: 3 Haskell devs, 1 Full stack dev, guided by the Project Manager.
• Acceptance Criteria: Contract must provide accurate compliance reports and real-time monitoring capabilities.

Development of Stakeholder Engagement Smart Contract and Protocol

• Duration: Month 4
• Objective: Build a smart contract for managing stakeholder engagement and participation in the protocol.
• Team Involved: 3 Haskell devs, 1 Full stack dev, under the supervision of the Project Manager.
• Acceptance Criteria: Effective management tools and resources for stakeholder participation must be integrated into the contract.

Dashboard Development and Protocols Integration

• Duration: Month 5
• Objective: Develop a user-friendly, white-labeled dashboard for interacting with the protocol suite.
• Team Involved: 1 Full stack dev and Marketing Lead for user interface design and feedback.
• Acceptance Criteria: The dashboard should be seamlessly integrated with all smart contracts and provide a comprehensive user experience.

Full Integration and Testing of the Protocol Suite

• Duration: Month 6
• Objective: Integrate all developed smart contracts with the dashboard and conduct thorough testing.
• Team Involved: Entire team collaboratively works on integration and testing.
• Acceptance Criteria: Successful integration with no critical bugs, efficient performance of the protocol suite, and positive feedback from initial user testing.

The team will submit a final project report and a video for the community to refer to.

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

Technology Partner - Konma Labz

Sangeet Muralidhar

Vinay Devabhakthuni

Advitha Ashok

Nikhil Batra

Policy, Regulations and Compliances Partner - Blue Brett Consultants LLP

Utpal Nath

Mukesh Singh

Plantation Partner - Trust for Restoring Environment and Empowering the Society (TREES)

Sree Kumar Mayandi

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

With a total budget of 300,000 ADA, here's a detailed cost breakdown for the Karbon Ledger project:

• Smart Contract Development:
• Energy Consumption, Renewable Energy, Compliance, Stakeholder Engagement Contracts
• Cost: 90,000 ADA
• Dashboard Development and Integration:
• Design, Development, Testing, and Integration
• Cost: 50,000 ADA
• IoT, AI/ML Integration and Testing:
• Hardware Costs, Integration, and Field Testing
• Cost: 50,000 ADA
• Compliance and Reporting Systems:
• Development of Compliance Reporting Tools and Systems
• Cost: 70,000 ADA
• Marketing and Community Outreach:
• Promotional Content, Community Engagement Activities
• Cost: 30,000 ADA
• Miscellaneous and Contingency Funds:
• Unforeseen Expenses and Additional Resources
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

This budget is meticulously planned to ensure that every aspect of the project is well-funded and managed efficiently, aligning with our proposal goals and timelines.

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

The investment in Karbon Ledger offers long-term benefits by providing a scalable, replicable model for carbon neutrality initiatives leveraging Cardano’s blockchain technology. The project's potential for widespread adoption and impact justifies the budget allocation.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agrees to Fund Rules and also that data in the submission form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept