What is a carbon credit?

Carbon credits, also known as carbon offsets, are permits that allow the owner to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. One credit permits the emission of one ton of carbon dioxide or the equivalent in other greenhouse gases. The carbon credit is half of a so-called cap-and-trade program.

How are carbon credits assessed?

Carbon credits are assessed using CCQI’s methodology, which scores a given carbon credit on an interval scale of one through five against several quality objectives, listed below. This allows buyers to understand the nuances and trade-offs in the quality of carbon credits and make an informed decision.

Are carbon credits good quality?

Carbon credits must be of high quality to effectively contribute to the global goals of the Paris Agreement. However, not all carbon credits meet these high standards. Transparent and trustworthy information on carbon credit quality can help different stakeholders move the market towards higher quality:

How can carbon credit buyers use our scores?

Carbon credit buyers can use our scores as part of their due diligence in understanding the potential risks associated with different types of carbon credits. Carbon crediting programs can use our methodology and detailed assessments to identify gaps or shortcomings and improve their program rules and methodologies.