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Carbon Markets Are Broken - But Banks Are Betting They Can Fix Them
As carbon markets face mounting criticism over credibility and complexity, major financial institutions are stepping in to impose structure and standards. A leading voice in sustainable finance argues that the voluntary carbon credit market is at a turning point - and that with the right reforms, it can evolve from fragmented chaos into a credible, scalable tool for global decarbonization.
May 12, 2025
Thea Holland
Thea Holland, Conference Producer, Center for Financial Professionals
Tags: ESG and Climate Risk
Carbon Markets Are Broken - But Banks Are Betting They Can Fix Them
The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the thought leader as an individual and are not attributed to CeFPro or any other organization
  • Voluntary carbon markets are under pressure due to inconsistent standards, limited oversight, and reputational risks, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability.
  • Financial institutions are responding with improved governance, standardization efforts, and frameworks like the Core Carbon Principles to define high-quality credits and restore market credibility.
  • For carbon markets to support the energy transition effectively, they must scale dramatically from billions to trillions, with carbon removals expected to grow as pricing mechanisms and market structures mature.
  • As regulation, audit practices, and disclosure requirements advance, voluntary carbon credits are increasingly expected to function like commodities, bringing comparability and trust critical for investor confidence.
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