Ways to Buy Carbon Credits

A quick read on the basics of carbon credits: understanding how they are used, factors to consider when purchasing, and alternative methods of procurement.

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How are carbon credits used?

At their core, carbon credits can be used for avoidance, or removal, of emissions. Removal credits involve emissions offset projects that physically absorb existing CO2 from the atmosphere, resulting in a net emission of zero tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere. Organisations that pursue carbon neutrality - a near-term target that involves removing the same amount of CO2 from the atmosphere as is emitted - can do so by purchasing carbon credits via the voluntary carbon market (VCM). A range of available credits on the VCM are available for purchase, varying in quality, geography, and co-benefits, and then retirement, which allows the credits to deliver their intended impact. The Treeconomy carbon marketplace is a valuable platform for purchasing suitable, high-quality, technology-monitored removal credits to offset emissions.

What should you consider when purchasing carbon credits?

The main quality indicators to consider when purchasing credits from a carbon project are permanence, additionality, risk, leakage, and co-benefits. Measurement of these indicators varies based on the accrediting body used for a carbon project. Here at Treeconomy, we emphasise the importance of durable carbon removal projects, that are supported by and benefit local communities. Community involvement has been found to not only provide a source of sustainable revenue for local communities but also incentivises good management of a project as well as regulatory support.

Purchasing from a carbon credit portfolio.

It is also possible to purchase a carbon credit portfolio, based on a basket of carbon projects. This is a useful consideration for hedging risk and ensuring carbon credit delivery is ensured across a variety of projects, but can also support the duration of an organisation’s carbon offsetting needs with carbon credit delivery over a longer period of time. If you are an organisation interested in purchasing carbon credits, please contact us at hello@treeconomy.co or book a meeting with one of our commercial representatives here for more information on projects in our pipeline as well as ways to purchase credits to match your needs!