Carbon Offset Guide Second Edition

We’re happy to announce a major update to the Carbon Offset Guide

Through the Carbon Offset Guide, Second Edition, we partnered with the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) to update and incorporate carbon credit developments since 2019. The guide is now available to download for free. This latest update builds upon more than 15 years of independent research to provide an objective resource for anyone seeking an in-depth understanding of the promise – and potential pitfalls – of carbon credits as a tool for climate action.

Additionally, our partnership launched the new and improved Offsetguide.org website, freshly designed to make its content more accessible and ease navigation. Dive into the carbon credit landscape and quickly find relevant information on all things related to the carbon credit markets.

What the Offset Guide Offers:

• Guidance on using carbon credits responsibly
• Definitions of the criteria determining carbon credit quality
• Strategies for avoiding low-quality carbon credits
• Explanations of other topics relevant to carbon credits

This resource is for anyone interested in understanding more about carbon credits, which can be difficult for those new to the subject. Potential buyers of carbon credits will find tools and guidance tailored to assisting them in avoiding low-quality credits. Beyond credit buyers, this resource can support government officials, corporate sustainability professionals, students, academics, reporters, industry experts, and others in the carbon credit market and policy space. It aims to equip readers with the knowledge they need to understand what credit quality is and the ongoing debates in the carbon credit market.

As authors of the guide, Derik Broekhoff and Michael Gillenwater, add:

“This update contains critical new information to help companies, policymakers, and individuals understand both the challenges of carbon credits and how to make them a meaningful tool for climate action.” – Derik Broekhoff, Senior Scientist for SEI

“Carbon credits can be a useful tool that utilizes the power of markets to advance and direct mitigation action, helping fight the climate crisis. However, carbon credit markets are a tool that we must use carefully to ensure they function effectively. As a result, these markets can be difficult to navigate. We created this resource to elevate trusted research and independent expert information that anyone can access.” – Michael Gillenwater, Executive Director for GHGMI