High-integrity carbon credits: what you should really be looking for
South Pole
Leading carbon project expert and climate consultancy. Trusted partner and advisor on decarbonisation since 2006.
Cut through the carbon noise
The carbon market is rapidly transforming, with increasingly stringent measures aimed at greater transparency and standardisation. Stay ahead of these changes with our free quickguide. This resource is designed to:
Whether you're new to carbon or looking to sharpen your edge, this essential resource will help you act decisively in a rapidly changing landscape.
Behind the Draft: A CEO Dialogue on SBTi’s Evolving Net Zero Framework
Join a rare, stripped-back conversation with SBTi CEO David Kennedy and South Pole CEO Daniel Klier as they discuss the future of the Net-Zero Standard. They’ll discuss what’s changing, why it matters, and answer your most pressing questions—live.
👉 Don’t miss this exclusive bonus episode of our SBTi webinar series.
Five things to read this week
Short on time? Here are 5 must-read articles to keep up with the climate industry.
1. Climate Home News I Brazil calls on local groups to “inspire” governments in boosting climate action
Brazil, as the host of COP30, is urging grassroots organizations to lead by example in climate action, aiming to motivate governments to enhance their national climate plans. With only 21 countries having updated their emission reduction targets for 2035, COP30 President André Corrêa do Lago emphasizes the role of individuals, corporations, and educators in demonstrating commitment to climate change mitigation. This call to action coincides with concerns over global temperatures, which have risen 1.58°C above pre-industrial levels over the past year.
The UK and EU are considering linking their separate Emissions Trading Systems to harmonize carbon pricing and reduce trade barriers. Such linkage could prevent competitive distortions and lower costs for consumers. However, differences in carbon pricing and the design of each system present challenges. Industry groups advocate for this connection to avoid penalties under the EU's upcoming Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which will impose fees on carbon-intensive imports starting in 2026.
The Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI) has introduced the Scope 3 Action Code of Practice, allowing companies to use high-quality carbon credits to offset up to 25% of their Scope 3 emissions—the indirect emissions across a company's value chain. Companies must disclose their emissions gap and outline plans to close it by 2040. This approach offers more flexibility compared to the Science Based Targets initiative, which restricts the use of carbon credits until after meeting long-term targets.
4. Eco-Business | Verra launches world’s first transition credits methodology
Verra has introduced a new methodology for issuing carbon credits, termed "transition credits," aimed at facilitating the early retirement of coal plants and their replacement with renewable energy sources. This approach includes a requirement for at least 2% of expected revenue to be allocated to the developer's just transition plan, ensuring support for workers and communities affected by the shift. The methodology aims to accelerate decarbonization efforts while promoting social equity.
5. BusinessGreen I ‘Historic step’: UN body adopts key rules underpinning Paris Agreement carbon market
In a significant development, a governing body has adopted essential rules to operationalize the carbon market mechanisms outlined in the Paris Agreement. These rules establish a framework for international carbon trading, aiming to enhance transparency, environmental integrity, and the overall effectiveness of carbon markets in reducing global emissions. The adoption marks a milestone in implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, facilitating cooperation among countries to achieve climate goals.
Want to read more? Sign up for our full newsletter here.