Meeting standards and regulation frameworks with PocketSeed
June 7, 2024
Ensuring Compliance with Carbon Credit Regulations and Standards
PocketSeed is committed to providing an accessible platform for companies and other stakeholders to purchase voluntary carbon credits that meet stringent regulatory and quality standards. But what exactly are carbon credits, and how can those interested in climate action ensure they are making the right choices when purchasing them? This explainer covers the basics of carbon credits before delving into the finer details that highlight the importance of careful selection.
What are Carbon Credits?
A carbon credit represents a reduction or removal of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. These credits can be used to offset equivalent emissions elsewhere, measured in metric tons of carbon dioxide-equivalent (CO2e). Essentially, a buyer pays a price per ton of carbon to offset their emissions.
While some carbon credits are regulated in markets like the European Union, there is a growing voluntary market globally. These voluntary credits, often referred to as carbon offsets, allow companies to compensate for their emissions. They provide flexibility for businesses to manage their carbon footprint while supporting projects that help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.
The Power of Carbon Credits
The urgency of climate change demands rapid transition to a net-zero economy by 2050,. However, not companies can achieve zero emissions immediately. Companies may also face financial and technological constraints in reducing their carbon footprint.
By purchasing high-quality carbon credits, companies can immediately reduce their carbon footprint beyond what is otherwise feasible. Carbon offsets are thus essential for any comprehensive path to a net-zero future, as recognized by initiatives like the Climate Pledge and Oxford Net Zero. These credits allow companies to take immediate action, bridging the gap while they work on long-term sustainability strategies.
Ensuring Quality and Compliance
At PocketSeed, we are committed to upholding the highest standards in the carbon credit market by adhering to a robust framework that ensures transparency, accountability, and the integrity of our credits. Our approach aligns with the Core Carbon Principles, which provide a global benchmark for high-quality carbon credits.
Here’s how we ensure our credits meet these rigorous standards:
A. Governance
Effective GovernanceOur carbon-crediting program is designed to ensure transparency, accountability, continuous improvement, and the overall quality of carbon credits. We have implemented effective governance mechanisms to oversee and manage the entire process, ensuring that our operations meet the highest standards.
TrackingWe make sure to uniquely identify, record, and track all mitigation activities and the carbon credits issued. This system ensures that credits can be securely and unambiguously identified, providing a clear and traceable path from project inception to credit retirement.
TransparencyWe provide comprehensive and transparent information on all credited mitigation activities. This information is publicly available in electronic format and accessible to non-specialized audiences, enabling scrutiny and fostering trust in our activities.
Robust Independent Third-Party Validation and Verification
Our program requires robust independent third-party validation and verification. This ensures that the credits we issue are based on verified emission reductions or removals, maintaining the integrity and reliability of our credits.
B. Emissions Impact
AdditionalityThe greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions or removals from our mitigation activities are additional, meaning they would not have occurred without the incentive created by carbon credit revenues. This ensures that our credits represent real, tangible benefits for the environment.
PermanenceThe GHG emission reductions or removals from our mitigation activities are permanent. Where there is a risk of reversal, we have measures in place to address those risks and compensate for any reversals, ensuring the long-term impact of our projects.
Robust Quantification of Emission Reductions and RemovalsWe robustly quantify the GHG emission reductions or removals from our mitigation activities using conservative approaches, completeness, and scientific methods. This rigorous quantification ensures the credibility and reliability of our carbon credits.
No Double-CountingWe ensure that the GHG emission reductions or removals from our mitigation activities are not double-counted. Our credits are only counted once towards achieving mitigation targets or goals, covering double issuance, double claiming, and double use.
C. Sustainable Impact
Sustainable Development Benefits and SafeguardsOur carbon-crediting program includes clear guidance, tools, and compliance procedures to ensure that mitigation activities conform to or exceed widely established industry best practices on social and environmental safeguards. Our projects deliver positive sustainable development impacts, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
Contribution Toward Net Zero TransitionOur mitigation activities avoid locking in levels of GHG emissions, technologies, or carbon-intensive practices that are incompatible with the objective of achieving net zero GHG emissions by mid-century. This ensures that our projects support the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Our carbon credits meet standards set by leading regulatory bodies and certifications such as SBTi, ISO, Climate Active and more, ensuring they are credible and effective.
Simplifying Carbon Credits with PocketSeed
We understand that navigating the carbon credit market can be complex and intimidating. That's why PocketSeed simplifies the process by offering:
Science-Backed Portfolios: We curate portfolios of carbon credits designed to maximize impact and minimize risk. Our team of experts carefully selects projects that meet rigorous standards for effectiveness and sustainability.
Flat Rate Pricing: Avoid the confusion of fluctuating market prices with our straightforward pricing per ton of carbon. This transparency helps businesses plan their sustainability budgets more effectively.
Usage-Based Charging: Pay only for what you use with no subscriptions or additional fees. This flexible approach ensures that companies of all sizes can participate in meaningful climate action.
User-Friendly Integration: Purchase through our intuitive dashboard and receive access to customizable impact pages. These tools enable businesses to share their sustainability efforts and achievements with stakeholders effectively. By using our impact pages, companies can showcase their commitment to climate action, enhancing transparency and engagement with customers, investors, and other key stakeholders
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Our platform ensures that the carbon credits you purchase are high-quality and effective, making it easier for your business to achieve its sustainability goals. With PocketSeed, you can confidently invest in climate action and contribute to a sustainable future.
If you believe PocketSeed could benefit your company, sign up today or reach out to us at [email protected].
By understanding and leveraging the right carbon credits, businesses can take significant steps toward a sustainable future while simplifying the complexities involved. PocketSeed is here to guide and support you on this journey. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the fight against climate change.