Voluntary carbon markets have had a turbulent few years. All market players – including buyers, traders, certifiers and project developers – hit by a number of high-profile allegations of “greenwashing” in relation to “unsound” carbon credits that should not be trusted to deliver the promised climate, environmental and social benefits – have faced intense control. Consequently some companies were left more hesitant to participate in the market , with a combination of concerns about reputational damage, fatigue from the growing bureaucracy associated with the new standards and pressure to focus on reducing emissions at the source serving to dampen demand. in some neighborhoods.

But under such enormous pressure to improve confidence in the market, work is ongoing to strengthen the framework for supervision, guidance and certification. As a result, there is now a growing sense within the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) that the supply of high-integrity credits is increasing and the sector is rapidly shedding its former "Wild West" reputation. (Michael Holder)