Glossary

CO₂ certificates

What are CO₂ certificates?

CO₂ certificates are certificates that certify that a certain amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or other greenhouse gases has been emitted by climate protection projects has been offset

Companies can use these CO₂ certificates to offset their carbon footprint. By purchasing the certificates, climate protection projects can be realized that actively contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. It doesn't matter where the projects are located: CO₂ is saved worldwide. 

CO₂ certificates also play a central role in the emissions trading system (ETS) - a market-based approach to controlling air pollution by limiting overall emissions.

Climate protection contribution through CO-certificates

Companies that purchase CO₂ certificates make an effective contribution to climate protection. By supporting climate protection projects, companies can indirectly reduce emissions that they cannot avoid directly. Possible climate protection projects are, for example

  • Renewable energy projects
  • Mire protection and restoration
  • Efficient cooking ovens
  • Technical solutions, such as Direct Air Capture
The graphic shows how CO2 certificates can be purchased and save greenhouse gas emissions
How does CO2 certificate trading work?

Importance of CO₂ compensation certificates without emissions trading

Even without direct participation in emissions trading, companies can purchaseCO2 certificates and offset their residual emissions. In this way, companies show that they are aware of their ecological responsibility and contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.

Companies that act sustainably also benefit from advantages:

  • Sustainable image: The purchase of CO₂ certificates demonstrates a company's commitment to environmental protection and can have a positive impact on the brand image.
  • Flexibility: companies can offset their carbon footprint even if direct emission reductions cannot be implemented immediately at their own site.
  • Promotion of environmental projects: By investing inCO2 certificates, companies contribute directly to the financing of environmental and climate protection projects.

CO₂ certificates in emissions trading

Emissions trading was adopted by the European Union in 2005 and is intended to help companies reduce their emissions while remaining competitive. Certificate trading is based on the "cap and trade" principle. An upper limit (cap) is set for total emissions and companies receive or buyCO2 certificates that give them the right to emit greenhouse gases up to a certain limit. Companies that reduce their emissions can sell surplus certificates to others who have to emit more than they are allowed.

Costs of CO₂ certificates

As with other market instruments , the costs for CO₂ certificates vary depending on the standard, project type, location and scope of the CO₂ reduction

Planted offers high-quality CO₂ projects for offsetting

CO₂ certificates offer companies a practical way of achieving their climate targets and supporting positive environmental effects at the same time. With Planted, we support your company in the selection of CO₂ certificates in the form of global climate protection projects, some of which have been verified by us on site. Find your suitable project now in a free consultation with our team of experts.