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Carbon credits explained

In this guide we’ll cover:
<ul>
<li>What are carbon credits?</li>
<li>How do carbon credits work?</li>
<li>How are carbon credits created?</li>
<li>How are carbon credits bought and sold?</li>
<li>How much are carbon credits worth?</li>
<li>Why should a business consider buying carbon credits?</li>
<li>Are carbon credits a good investment for businesses?</li>
<li>Are carbon credits tax deductible?</li>
<li>How Ecologi can support your business&#8217; carbon reduction strategies</li>
</ul>

The climate challenge requires a range of innovative solutions. As businesses work to decarbonise their value chains they must also invest in emission avoidance or removal projects beyond their own operations, the SBTi refers to this as &#8220;<a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/beyond-value-chain-mitigation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">beyond value chain mitigation</a>&#8220;.
Reducing operational emissions is key, but it can take time. So while on the journey to net-zero it’s also important for businesses to make a more immediate impact by funding high quality climate action today. Purchasing carbon credits helps businesses do just that.
Purchasing carbon removal credits is particularly beneficial towards the end of the net-zero journey, because once a business has reduced its emissions by at least 90%, it can use these carbon credits to balance its remaining, unavoidable emissions and reach net-zero.

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Net-zero graph

<h2>What are carbon credits?</h2>
Carbon credits provide funding (‘carbon finance’) to projects in exchange for activities which avoid or remove emissions from our atmosphere, while also achieving other benefits such as community development, protecting vulnerable ecosystems or installing energy-efficient technology. When your business purchases carbon credits it directly funds these projects, and after purchase that credit is permanently retired so it can&#8217;t be reused.
They are referred to as either ‘Carbon Avoidance’ and ‘Carbon Removal’ credits. Each carbon credit represents one metric tonne of greenhouse gas emissions that’s been avoided e.g. through <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/projects/morocco-solar">switching to renewable energy</a>, or removed from the atmosphere, e.g. by locking carbon safely away through the production of <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/projects/carbon-hill-biochar">Biochar</a>.

<h2>How are carbon credits created?</h2>
The process begins with project developers designing projects with the aim of avoiding or removing carbon dioxide/ carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.
When the developer establishes their project – such as a solar power plant – they can opt to go through a stringent assessment methodology developed by a carbon standards organisation (like the Gold Standard and the Verified Carbon Standard), to assess the real-world reductions of emissions which will be caused as a result of the project activity.
This impact is measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide (tCO2) or tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e). Carbon dioxide equivalent refers to a unit of measurement that is used to standardise the climate effects of various greenhouse gases based on their global warming potential over a specific timeframe. The tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent that has been reduced (or removed) by the project activity, is represented by a ‘carbon credit’ which is issued to the project developer. The carbon credit is often considered as a permit or licence to emit that one tonne of carbon dioxide (or carbon dioxide equivalent).

<h2>How do carbon credits work?</h2>
Carbon credits are generated through various emission reduction or removal projects, including <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/impact-shop/support-certified-afforestation-projects">afforestation</a>, <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/impact-shop/support-biochar-carbon-removal-projects">biochar</a>, <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/impact-shop/support-certified-blue-carbon-projects">blue carbon removal</a> and <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/impact-shop/support-renewable-energy">renewable energy production</a>. 
These projects are rigorously assessed and verified to ensure that they result in real and measurable emissions reductions. Once validated, the projects are issued carbon credits proportional to the amount of CO2 equivalent emissions they prevent or remove from the atmosphere.
Carbon credits are issued to projects by carbon standards, which are organisations that set criteria for how projects can earn credits. There are several carbon standards, and each one has its own set of criteria.

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At Ecologi, we work with three carbon standards: 
<a href="https://verra.org/programs/verified-carbon-standard/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Verified Carbon Standard</a> includes the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standard (CCBS) and the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SDVista) certifications.
<a href="https://www.goldstandard.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Standard</a> assesses projects based on their contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as emissions avoidance or removal.
<a href="https://puro.earth/puro-standard-carbon-removal-credits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Puro Standard</a> is a dedicated standard for carbon removal credits (which actively absorb existing emissions out of the atmosphere through natural or technological processes).

<h2>How are carbon credits bought and sold?</h2>
Carbon credits are bought and sold on the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) through various platforms and exchanges, similar to how stocks are traded. Businesses can purchase carbon credits either directly from project developers, through brokers, or on carbon credit trading platforms.
Trading carbon credits can happen in both voluntary and compliance markets. In the voluntary market, businesses purchase credits voluntarily to balance their emissions, demonstrate environmental responsibility and meet their sustainability goals. 
The compliance market on the other hand operates within regulated emissions trading schemes, where businesses must acquire a sufficient number of credits to comply with regulatory requirements.

<h2>How much are carbon credits worth?</h2>
The carbon credits price fluctuates based on factors such as market demand and regulatory frameworks. The forces of demand and supply apply, just as they do with other commodities traded in financial markets. The credibility of the emission reduction project, its co-benefits beyond emissions avoidance or removal reduction, the scale and location of the project, and the technologies used, will also all influence credit pricing.
The carbon credit price can range from around £3 to £50 per tonne (or even higher for innovative removals technology) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) on the voluntary carbon market.

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Verified Afforestation, Reforestation and Revegetation ARR projects

<h2>Why should a business consider buying carbon credits?</h2>
Investing in carbon credits offers numerous benefits for your business:
Environmental responsibility: By purchasing carbon credits, your business can demonstrate its commitment to mitigating climate change, supporting climate impact and assisting the transition to a more sustainable and resilient future.
Brand reputation: The purchase of carbon credits on the journey to net-zero can enhance a company&#8217;s reputation and drive competitive advantage by appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Investor appeal: Contributing to carbon avoidance and removal projects through the purchase of carbon credits can appeal to environmentally-responsible investors, attracting investment capital to the business.
Risk management: Investing in carbon credits can hedge against future regulatory changes or carbon pricing mechanisms, reducing the financial risks associated with carbon emissions.
Employee engagement: Supporting climate impact by buying carbon credits can engage employees and foster a sense of pride and purpose among staff members.

<h2>Are carbon credits a good investment for businesses?</h2>
Financially supporting carbon avoidance and removal projects through the purchase of high-quality carbon credits is crucial for our transition to net-zero, as it decreases the amount of greenhouse gases entering our atmosphere. 
Ultimately, the decision to invest in carbon credits will be led by a businesses sustainability goals, regulatory environment and financial considerations. 
Carbon credits can offer great environmental benefits and enhance corporate reputation, but not all carbon credits are created equal. Like all markets, there will be some carbon credits that are low quality, but there are also many high-quality carbon credits that finance real, verifiable emissions avoidance and removals. Businesses should carefully assess the credibility and impact of the projects associated with the credits before making investment decisions.
At Ecologi, we only work with carefully selected partners, and all of our projects are verified and high quality.

<h2>Are carbon credits tax deductible?</h2>
In the UK the purchase of carbon credits can be tax deductible under certain circumstances. However, tax regulations can vary, and the deductibility of carbon credits depends on factors such as the purpose of the investment, the nature of the business, and compliance with the relevant tax laws and regulations. 
Businesses should consult with tax professionals or legal advisors to determine the tax implications of carbon credit investments specific to their situation.

<h2>How Ecologi can help you fund high-quality carbon credits</h2>
At Ecologi, we understand that carbon markets can be complicated and hard to navigate. Our expert team can consult with your businesses and help you take the right steps to choose the highest quality projects when you purchase carbon credits. 
We select the projects we support according to our climate impact regionalisation strategy, which focuses on directing funding towards locations and projects with the greatest potential impact. We will only ever support high-quality projects that meet our strict criteria and are verified by the Gold Standard, Verified Carbon Standard or Puro Standard.
The projects we support, which you can fund through our Impact Shop or through our automations and integrations, are also independently scrutinised by organisations like our friends at Sylvera.
We’re committed to trust and transparency, which is why we never re-trade carbon credits (we only retire them ourselves) and publish all carbon credit retirements on our Public Impact Ledger.

<h3>Read our guide to funding high-quality carbon credits</h3>
<div class="ecologi-video-full-width"><iframe src="https://cms-assets.offset.earth/app/uploads/20230914115954/Document_Ad_Funding_Carbon_Credits_01-1.pdf" width="960" height="1357" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
 📁 Download the guide <a href="https://cms-assets.offset.earth/app/uploads/20230914115954/Document_Ad_Funding_Carbon_Credits_01-1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>

<h2>How Ecologi can support your carbon reduction strategies</h2>
We’re your trusted partner in taking climate action, offering a range of products and services to businesses of all sizes. From <a href="https://zero.ecologi.com/signup">calculating your company’s carbon footprint</a>, to tree planting and reforestation, to funding certified carbon avoidance and reduction projects via our <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/business/impact-shop">Impact Shop</a>, we’re here to support your entire climate journey. 
If you’re looking for a custom climate impact solution, or for those who are not sure where to start, our team of experts can create a tailored solution to suit your needs.

Speak to our team about funding high impact, high integrity climate solutions

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Hopescrolling: The good news timeline

It’s not all bad. While there’s a lot of negative news about the climate, let’s not forget the good stuff. Find climate wins, reasons to be hopeful and plenty of positivity in our good news timeline.

The good news timeline

Ready to make a difference for our planet? Get in touch, and let’s chat about how we can help you on your climate journey. 

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Ecologi Impact Funds: A new way to support climate action

We’ve just launched our much anticipated product, <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/solutions/impact-funds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ecologi Impact Funds</a>, a new way to maximise your business climate impact by funding multiple high-quality projects in one go whilst also spreading residual risk.
In this deep-dive, we’ll explore:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What is an Impact Fund; </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why they are best for our planet and how they fit into your net-zero journey;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The difference between carbon compensation and contribution approaches;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why your business should start contributing to Impact Funds today.</li>
</ul>

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<h2>What is an Impact Fund?</h2>
Our new Ecologi Impact Funds maximise your business climate impact by funding multiple high-quality projects in one go while also spreading residual risk. 
 
The Ecologi Impact funds are carefully curated project cohorts centred around a particular theme or climate intervention. Each of our Impact Funds is carefully designed to drive progress against our three key pillars of impact: 

<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Climate: Reducing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nature: Conserving and restoring nature and natural systems</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">People: Transforming society and improving lives</li>
</ol>
When you contribute towards an Impact Fund, you’re not just funding a single project in a single location. You’ll be funding a cohort of multiple different projects which might be based all over the world – but all centred around driving transformative action for our climate, nature, and people.
The cohort of projects we support within each Ecologi Impact Fund is dynamic, meaning that some projects will receive support from the Fund over an extended period, and others will receive individual grants. All projects contribute to the Fund’s core aims, and all projects are carefully vetted and selected by our expert team.

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<h2>Why are Impact Funds best for our planet?</h2>
When we think about the existing models of financing climate and nature projects, the focus is usually on one of two things: either inputs (like paying to plant trees), or certification (like carbon credits). Both of these are critical vehicles for channelling funding to incredible projects, but they don’t tell the whole story.
Take tree-planting, for example. To establish and maintain an impactful forest restoration or agroforestry project takes so much more than just planting the trees. Any one of Ecologi’s partner reforestation projects is actually doing far more than simply planting trees – and all of this costs money, which has to fit into the project’s budget. For example, project designs and associated budgets might include all of this (and more):
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Securing land tenure;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Communications and campaigns;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Logistics, vehicles and transport; </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Seed collection or acquisition;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tree nurseries and infrastructure;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Staff salaries and technical training;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Community services and outreach;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Energy provision;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tools and safety equipment;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Leadership training and capacity building;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reinvestment into the local community;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fencing and other critical infrastructure;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Water and irrigation;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Project monitoring and evaluation;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Outplanting of trees;</li>
</ul>
If, when we support these projects, we as funders are only thinking about this last bullet point – thinking about our role as simply “paying to plant trees” – then we are neglecting to recognise the incredible effort that goes into the truly holistic programme required to restore nature sustainably and at scale. At best, this is simple tunnel vision. But at worst, this means funders risk thinking that the only thing that’s important is how many trees were planted within the project boundary.
Our Impact Funds help to transform this mindset: decoupling funding from inputs and instead centring our thinking around strategic, thematic and carefully-curated project cohorts means that implementation partners receiving the funding are able to focus on producing restorative outcomes for ecosystems and communities. They also help our customers to understand that what we are doing in supporting restorative projects is not tit-for-tat – it’s us playing our part to restore our planet by supporting a blended range of projects which we acknowledge will have a holistic impact.
So through Ecologi’s first new Impact Funds, we’re not focusing on ‘paying to plant trees’. We’re focusing on restoring forests and landscapes.
<h3>Leading climate science is already taking this approach</h3>
Recent publications from the Science-Based Targets initiative in <a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/resources/files/Above-and-Beyond-Report-on-BVCM.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">their beyond value chain mitigation (‘BVCM’) report</a>, as well as <a href="https://www.smithschool.ox.ac.uk/sites/default/files/2024-02/Oxford-Principles-for-Net-Zero-Aligned-Carbon-Offsetting-revised-2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the newly-updated Oxford Principles</a> from the University of Oxford, have supported the innovative contributory approach which is exemplified in our Impact Funds. Many of our restoration partners, including <a href="https://www.internationaltreefoundation.org/news/beyond-offsets-an-alternative-approach" target="_blank" rel="noopener">International Tree Foundation</a>, <a href="https://www.eden-plus.org/stories/its-time-to-go-beyond-tree-planting" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eden: People + Planet</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfBVBHNpR30" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Acción Andina</a> and <a href="https://www.weforest.org/what-we-do/our-restoration-principles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WeForest</a> have taken similar stances.
Global Forest Generation noted that:
<blockquote>In some cases reforestation may only form a small part of an ecosystem restoration project. Our activities and budgets have always reflected a holistic program with many components that we have identified as essential to effective, long-term ecosystem restoration.</blockquote>
With our new Impact Funds, Ecologi is proudly joining our friends and partners to raise our voices in a call for holistic restoration for people and our planet. <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/solutions/impact-funds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Schedule a call</a> with our experts to see how your business can start contributing to the Impact Funds, or continue reading for more of a deep-dive.

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On your business’s road to net-zero, you have two central objectives:
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">First: measure your business’s emissions, set ambitious reduction targets, and reduce your emissions across all scopes as much as possible, as quickly as possible.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Then: support the global transition to net-zero and the restoration of nature by contributing to climate and nature projects around the world. </li>
</ol>
Ecologi’s Impact Funds can help you with step (2), by enabling you to <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/business/ecologi-impact-funds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">support a diverse range of projects</a> which will help to safeguard and restore nature, and scale-up carbon removal technologies. This is an alternative to traditional carbon offsetting, which is where you’d buy carbon credits equal to the emissions you produce. 
Specifically, our Impact Funds can help you align your project funding strategy to Goal #2 of the Science-Based Targets initiative’s <a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/resources/files/Above-and-Beyond-Report-on-BVCM.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BVCM best practice</a>, as well as centring all four of the SBTi’s core principles for BVCM: scalability, financing need, co-benefits and climate justice.

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Since 2020, at Ecologi we have also been aligning our work with the Oxford Principles, which as well as providing guidance for blended carbon credit-based portfolios which increasingly lean towards carbon removal with permanent storage, also stress the vital importance of businesses contributing to nature restoration beyond simply the purchasing of carbon credits. The Revised Oxford Principles (2024), states:
<blockquote>It is necessary to protect and restore ecosystems to achieve net zero globally and to support adaptation to climate change impacts, irrespective of whether such projects generate credits that are retired as offsets.</blockquote>
Making a contribution to Ecologi’s Impact Funds won’t reduce your emissions for you, and it won’t allow you to make compensatory green claims such as carbon neutrality. But what it will do is enable your business to do its part to support the global transition to net-zero, holistically protect and restore ecosystems, and empower people and communities – whilst you’re working on reducing your emissions.
Doing so will help you meet the BVCM criteria set out by the SBTi and Oxford Net Zero today, and we believe these contributory approaches will form the backbone of project funding obligations under new and updated standards in the future too – such as the revised SBTi Corporate Standard and the ISO Net-Zero Standard (both expected to be published in Q4 of 2025).
We can also help you if you’re looking for <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/page/schedule-a-call" target="_blank" rel="noopener">high-quality carbon removal or avoidance credits</a> for your business. And if you’re a little earlier on in your net-zero journey and you need support measuring your business’s emissions, <a href="https://zero.ecologi.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we can help with that too</a>!

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<h2>Why should my business contribute to Impact Funds?</h2>
Best for our planet. Our first company value is Planet First — and nowhere in our work is this more prominent than in our Impact Funds. We know that this strategic, holistic way of providing funding to the world’s flagship restoration projects is the right way to support projects that address climate change, restore nature and support livelihoods. This approach is innovative, transformational, and the world’s leading restoration experts support it.
Centralise your portfolio. Through our Impact Funds, you can fund a wide range of different climate and nature projects, all in one place. All of the hard work – from project selection to outcomes reporting – is done by us. You’ll have a centralised Ecologi profile where you can visualise your impact across the Funds you’ve contributed to, and deep dive on the projects supported within them.
High-integrity, high-quality projects. Our expert in-house team selects all projects and implementation partners with great care. We’ve designed state of the art methodologies that get right to the heart of a project’s potential effectiveness, and we work tirelessly with each of our implementation partners to uphold restoration best practices and exchange knowledge. That way, you know that if a project is featured in one of our Impact Funds, it’s been carefully vetted and selected as one of the leading restoration projects anywhere.
Spread funding risk. When you support projects individually, there’s always a risk that if the project you supported doesn’t achieve its goals, you’ll feel that your contribution was wasted. Through Impact Funds, the funding you contribute is spread across a range of different projects within the Fund, meaning that even in the unlikely event that an individual project doesn’t work out, your funding will still have contributed to many projects which met or even exceeded their restorative aims.
Boost your brand. Contributing to Ecologi’s Impact Funds is an excellent way to enhance your brand’s sustainability credentials. Businesses today are increasingly expected to take action on environmental challenges, and supporting impactful projects is a powerful demonstration of your commitment to the planet. In fact, improved brand reputation is the number one driver for businesses, with over <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/articles/blog/climate-comittments-report-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">34% of Ecologi respondents</a> seeing their brand elevated as a result of climate action. By aligning with large-scale, verified restoration efforts, you not only meet consumer expectations but also stand out in a competitive marketplace, leaving a lasting impression on customers.
Engage and motivate your team. Supporting Ecologi’s Impact Funds aligns with the values of today&#8217;s workforce of sustainability and social responsibility; increasing satisfaction and loyalty. According to our survey, <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/articles/blog/climate-comittments-report-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">28% of companies</a> saw improved employee retention through prioritising climate action. By contributing to impactful projects, your business will foster a purpose-driven workplace and strengthen a culture of shared environmental values.

<h2>How to support Impact Funds today</h2>
Schedule a call with our exports today, <a href="https://x.ecologi.com/page/schedule-a-call" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. In a 30 minute discovery call they can answer any questions you may have and help find a suitable solution to suit your goals and what matters most to your business. 
<h2>Our Impact Funds</h2>
We currently offer two Impact Funds, both funding a range of incredible projects with two distinct climate goals:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">UK Climate &amp; Nature Fund &#8211; Exclusively supports restoration and carbon removal efforts in the UK, such as reforestation, habitat restoration and biochar production. 
</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Forests &amp; Landscapes Fund &#8211; Focused on preserving and restoring natural landscapes globally, including forest restoration, agroforestry, and coastal wetland restoration.</li>
</ul>

Schedule a call

UK corporate sustainability standards explained

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In the guide we compare the strengths, weaknesses and approach to target setting, reporting and carbon offsets of the most commonly used sustainability frameworks.
In this guide we’ll cover;
<ul>
<li>What are Corporate Sustainability Standards</li>
<li>Which Corporate Sustainability Standards should UK businesses know</li>
<li>Requirements of PAS 2060</li>
<li>Requirements of ISO 14068-1:2023</li>
<li>Requirements of ISO 14064-1</li>
<li>Principles of BSI Flex 3030</li>
<li>What are EightVersa’s Natural Carbon Solutions</li>
<li>SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standards</li>
<li>How Ecologi can support your business in navigating the complexities of Corporate Sustainability Standards</li>
</ul>

<h2>What are Corporate Sustainability Standards</h2>
Many organisations worldwide have pledged to meet net-zero Emissions, aiming to help keep global warming below 1.5°C as agreed at COP15. These pledges are important, but they need clear guidelines and frameworks to ensure that sustainability strategies lead to real and measurable progress.
<h3>Why are there Corporate Sustainability Standards?</h3>
A variety of frameworks have been developed to support organisations on their journey to reducing carbon emissions. They help align companies with global climate goals, offering guidance on topics such as resource management, goal setting and reporting. Following these guidelines ensures that organisations act responsibly, and take accountability for their impact contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
To reach net zero, these sustainability standards must be widely adopted to minimise the risk of organisations participating in greenwashing and contribute to collective global action to minimise the impacts of global warming.
<h2>Which Corporate Sustainability Standards should my business know about</h2>

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<h2>What is PAS 2060?</h2>
PAS 2060 was first published in 2010, it aimed to provide the requirements for achieving carbon neutrality for products and organisations alike. After 15 years in operation, PAS 2060 will be retired at the end of 2025, and superseded by ISO 14068- 1:2023.
The standard provides organisations with a methodology for measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and allows for the purchasing of carbon credits to offset any emissions that can’t be reduced.
<h2>What are the requirements of PAS 2060</h2>
<h3>Measure</h3>
PAS 2060 requires organisations to first measure their carbon footprint, accounting for all Scope 1 and 2 emissions, as well as any Scope 3 emissions that constitute more than 1% of the organisation&#8217;s overall emissions.
<h3>Reduce</h3>
Organisations must then create and implement a carbon reduction plan (CRP). This plan should clearly outline specific actions and targets for reducing emissions over time.
<h3>Offset</h3>
After reducing emissions, organisations can then offset remaining emissions using third-party verified carbon credits, these can be carbon avoidance or carbon removal credits.
<h3>Document</h3>
Organisations must document their carbon neutrality initiatives in a Qualifying Explanatory Statement (QES). This should be a public document that includes key information such as the carbon footprint calculation, reduction measures and offsetting activities.
<h3>Drawbacks</h3>
PAS 2060 does not require evidence of continual improvement to the organisation&#8217;s carbon footprint, which can lead to an over-reliance on carbon offsets, as opposed to meaningful reductions in carbon emissions. Additionally, a PAS 2060 application must be accompanied by at least one year’s worth of supporting data therefore, PAS 2060 should not be considered for new clients/projects after December 2024.

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<h2>What is ISO 14068-1:2023</h2>
ISO 14068-1:2023 is a new standard under development by the British Standards Institute (BSI). As mentioned above, ISO 14068-1 replaces PAS 2060.
The standard aims to provide the requirements and guidance for achieving and demonstrating carbon neutrality. Unlike PAS 2060, the standard applies to organisations only and does not apply to products.
ISO 14068-1:2023 is a full international standard that prioritises carbon reduction initiatives. This standard requires evidence that reduction initiatives have taken place before any carbon offsetting is allowed.
<h2>What are the requirements of ISO 14068-1:2023</h2>
<h3>Measure</h3>
Organisations will need to measure their Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions under this standard.
<h3>Reduce</h3>
They will then need to set clear and ambitious targets to reduce their emissions. Whilst purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions is allowed under this standard, organisations must be able to justify why offsets were purchased instead of undertaking further emission reductions.
<h3>Offset</h3>
Carbon removal offsets are approved to offset any ‘hard to remove’ emissions, providing they are less than 5 years old. This standard does not allow for the purchasing of carbon avoidance credits.
<h3>Document</h3>
ISO 14068-1:2023 also requires a carbon reduction plan, which documents the resources necessary to successfully deliver the plan, and the individuals responsible. The continuous improvement of the subject’s carbon footprint is required to maintain a carbon-neutral status unlike PAS 2060.
<h3>Drawbacks</h3>
It could be argued that ISO 14068-1:2023 requires a deep understanding of carbon accounting, emission reduction strategies and value chain emissions. Many organisations don&#8217;t have this expertise in-house and would therefore have to appoint an external third party to support them through the process, this could result in high costs to implement this standard which new and/or small companies may not have.

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<h2>What is ISO 14064-1</h2>
ISO 14064 guides organisations in reporting their GHG emissions and removals. The primary objectives of the standard are to help organisations manage and report emissions, and set and achieve reduction targets. It is a part of the 3 part ISO 14064 standard and applies to any organisation of any size.
<h2>What are the requirements of ISO 14064-1</h2>
ISO 14064-1 is the first part of the 3-part standard, it aims to provide organisations with an approach to measure, report and verify their emissions and offsets.
<h3>Measure</h3>
Organisations must outline which emission sources and activities are included in their reporting however ISO 14064-1 does not require the reporting of Scope 3 emissions.
<h3>Reduce</h3>
ISO 14064-1 does not explicitly require organisations to reduce emissions before engaging in offsetting however it does emphasise the importance of regularly reporting GHG emissions including prioritising emission reductions.
<h3>Offset</h3>
ISO 14064-1 recognises the use of carbon offsets as a legitimate tool for managing GHG emissions however places a strong emphasis on transparency and accurate reporting. ISO 14064-1 allows for both avoidance and removal credits providing they are credible, verifiable and meet recognised standards for offset projects such as additionality and permanence.
<h3>Document</h3>
ISO 14064-1 requires an inventory management plan that outlines data collection and reporting, and regular review of the GHG inventory. Additionally, a comprehensive GHG report should be prepared to detail the organisation&#8217;s emissions and purchased offsets.
<h3>Drawbacks</h3>
ISO 14064-1 also requires a comprehensive understanding of GHG accounting. This standard is largely focused on reporting, as opposed to action. There is no mandated emission reduction meaning organisations can meet emission targets through purchasing offsets alone, limiting the overall impact on global climate change mitigation.

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<h2>What is BSI Flex 3030</h2>
BSI Flex 3030 is a set of principles that can support organisations in meeting the requirements of other initiatives such as the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). BSI Flex was developed with small businesses in mind and is primarily for use by SMEs with between 5-250 employees.
BSI Flex 3030 is also designed to work alongside formal management systems such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) or BS EN ISO 50001 (Energy Management). It provides high-level principles and a framework for an organisation to deliver a transition to net zero. It covers how organisations can measure their GHG baseline, set reduction targets and create a credible pathway to net zero, it does not, however, cover how to develop and maintain a formal carbon or net-zero management system which highlights its position as a high-level framework to support organisations at the start of the carbon management journey.

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<h2>Natural Carbon Solutions, Eight Versa</h2>
The purpose of Natural Carbon Solutions (NCS) is to provide businesses with a transparent way to measure, verify and evidence carbon reduction efforts. This standard covers organisations, products and events.
<h2>What are the requirements of Natural Carbon Solutions (NCS)</h2>
<h3>Measure</h3>
Under the NCS accreditation, organisations must complete a detailed assessment of all GHG emissions associated with the organisation/product/event being measured.
<h3>Reduce</h3>
NSC prioritises the reduction of emissions before any offsetting activities. The framework includes setting specific and measurable carbon reduction targets.
<h3>Offset</h3>
Offsetting emissions is considered a valid step in the journey to net-zero but only after all efforts to reduce emissions have been made. Currently, both avoidance and removal credits can be purchased to compensate for any unavoidable emissions; however looking to the future, it is likely only removal credits will be approved under this accreditation.
<h3>Document</h3>
Organisations must implement a carbon reduction plan outlining the strategies and actions required to reduce their carbon footprint. If the organisation is using carbon offsets detailed documentation must be provided evidencing the chosen project is of high quality and environmental integrity.
<h3>Drawbacks</h3>
Although this accreditation emphasises the importance of carbon reduction, there are no mandatory reduction targets in place, this could result in some organisations relying on offsets to reach net-zero.

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<h2>SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard</h2>
The purpose of the SBTi Corporate net-zero Standard is to guide companies in setting credible and measurable targets to achieve net-zero emissions. The Corporate net-zero Standard is suitable for any organisation but is particularly useful for those with large, complex operations and significant carbon emissions to ensure they commit to credible, science-based emission reduction targets.
<h2>What are the requirements of the SBTi CZS</h2>
<h3>Measure</h3>
Under the SBTi standard, companies are required to measure and record their Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
<h3>Reduce</h3>
The standard requires organisations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 90-95% by 2050 or earlier across Scopes 1, 2 and 3.
<h3>Offset</h3>
The STBi emphasises that companies must prioritise real emissions reductions and offsetting is only permitted for unavoidable emissions. The SBTi only allows for carbon removal offsets providing they do not form part of any near-term carbon reduction targets for organisations.
<h3>Document</h3>
Organisations are to document near-term (5-10 years) emission reduction targets including the percentage reduction and target years in addition to long term targets for reaching net-zero by 2050 with detailed plans for reducing emissions 90-95% across all scopes. This documentation will be formally submitted to the SBTi for validation will ensure they are aligned with the science based criteria for limiting global warming emissions.
Organisations must report annually on their emissions and progress towards meeting their targets, they are also required to publicly disclose their targets, progress and emission data.
<h3>Drawbacks</h3>
The SBTi corporate net-zero standard is a detailed initiative that requires a lot of time and resources. The standard also requires organisations to only purchase permanent carbon removal credits, which are typically more costly, and less widely available making this route less desirable and achievable for smaller businesses.

An overview of Corporate Sustainability Standards: 

<h2>Benefits to Corporate Sustainability Standards for your business</h2>
Navigating corporate sustainability standards can be a daunting process, with so many to choose from it’s difficult to know which is going to be right for your business. Understanding and adhering to these frameworks can be of great benefit to your organisation, driving greater transparency, economic benefits and the opportunity to contribute to global decarbonisation efforts.

<h2>Are you ready to take climate action?</h2>
Our team of experts can help your business tackle the hurdles of corporate sustainability standards in the UK. If this guide has inspired your business to start funding climate action, talk to our team today.

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