Indonesia Aims to Sell $1B Carbon Credits at COP30, While Other Countries Step Up Their Carbon Plans

Jennifer L
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Indonesia Aims to Sell $1B Carbon Credits at COP30, While Other Countries Step Up Their Carbon Plans

Indonesia is making one of the biggest moves at COP30 in Belém, Brazil. The government aims to reach about US$1 billion (Rp 16 trillion) in carbon credit deals during the summit. The plan includes around 90 million tonnes of carbon credits from forestry, energy, and industry projects.

This goal is part of a wider plan to grow Indonesia’s carbon trading system. It follows new rules under Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025 on carbon economic value. It also comes after the country allowed international carbon trading again, following a four-year pause. These steps show that Indonesia wants to become a major player in climate finance and green investment in Asia.

At COP30, other countries are also stepping up their climate plans and carbon market initiatives. Nations like Brazil, Iraq, Singapore, Kenya, and the United Kingdom unveiled new projects, partnerships, and rules to boost verified carbon trading and ensure benefits reach local communities.

Building Stronger Rules and Partnerships

Indonesia used COP30 to prove it can build a fair and trusted carbon market system. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry introduced four new rules to improve how projects are managed and approved. The changes aim to make sure that money from carbon sales reaches local people, including indigenous groups.

To raise global trust, Indonesia signed new partnerships with leading organizations. It formed a Mutual Recognition Agreement with Verra, one of the world’s biggest carbon credit certifiers. This deal allows up to 50 million tonnes of CO₂ credits to enter global markets.

Indonesia also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM). This will help the country follow global standards for transparency and quality.

Indonesia is presenting 40 carbon projects at COP30. These include forest recovery work, renewable energy plants, and waste reduction programs. Together, they could generate more than 90 million credits once fully certified.

Officials see this as part of a long-term plan. The Forestry Ministry estimates that Indonesia’s carbon credit potential could reach 13.4 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2050. That could bring yearly income of $2.8 billion to $8.6 billion, depending on carbon prices.

Indonesia’s carbon market potential
Source: PwC

Economic gains and environmental wins

Government estimates show that Indonesia can cut emissions by 31.8% on its own and by 43.2% with global support. Carbon trading could help meet these goals by linking domestic projects with international buyers.

Indonesia’s projects range from mangrove restoration to geothermal power and the low-carbon industry. This diversity makes the country one of Asia’s most promising suppliers of carbon credits. However, success will depend on good governance, fair profit-sharing, and public trust.

If Indonesia reaches its US$1 billion target, it would be one of the largest carbon trade achievements for a developing nation. It could also inspire other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines, to follow similar paths.

Global Carbon Moves at COP30: What Other Countries Are Doing

Indonesia is not alone in expanding carbon markets. At COP30, several other countries also announced new plans to link climate action with trade and investment.

Brazil, the host nation, launched an Open Coalition on Compliance Carbon Markets. The group now includes 11 countries, such as China, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and members of the European Union.

The coalition wants to connect national markets and create shared standards for tracking and reporting emissions. It also aims to stop “double-counting” of credits and make global trading more transparent.

Open Coalition on Compliance Carbon Markets overview
Source: COP30 website

Brazil is working on its own national cap-and-trade system that will cover energy, transport, and industry. Officials say the plan will help the country use its vast forests to generate high-quality credits. They also promise that indigenous and local communities will share in the profits from these projects.

In the Middle East, Iraq announced its first national carbon market during COP30. This is a big shift for a country still dependent on oil and gas. Iraq plans to use carbon market funds to support renewable energy, modernize infrastructure, and cut emissions from heavy industry. It hopes to attract international investors to help build new low-carbon projects.

  • Meanwhile, the United Kingdom, Kenya, and Singapore launched a joint campaign to grow corporate demand for trustworthy carbon credits. Their goal is to set clear rules for how companies buy carbon offsets and ensure that every credit represents a real emissions cut.

Singapore is already one of Asia’s key carbon market hubs. It runs the Climate Impact X exchange and has signed several carbon trade deals under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The country acts as a bridge between credit producers in Southeast Asia and buyers in major financial markets.

Kenya is focusing on fairness and inclusion. It wants to make sure that African countries and local communities get a fair share of income from carbon projects. The country is building its own carbon credit export system based on lessons from other African nations.

Together, these efforts show that countries are now moving from promises to action. Each one is shaping its carbon market plan based on its strengths—Brazil’s forests, Singapore’s financial networks, Iraq’s energy sector, and Indonesia’s vast natural resources.

A Growing Global Network, Despite Challenges

Even as interest grows, carbon markets face challenges. Some projects have been criticized for exaggerating their climate impact or failing to help local communities. These issues have raised doubts about the real value of some credits.

“High-integrity” carbon credits were a major topic at COP30. Many delegates agreed that only verified, transparent credits would attract global investors. But developing nations also want flexible rules so smaller projects can join the market more easily. Finding a balance between strong oversight and easy access will be crucial.

The nations’ various moves reflect a shift toward teamwork. Countries and companies are learning that trading carbon credits can support both climate goals and economic growth.

projected global carbon credit market 2050
Source: Data from MSCI Carbon Markets estimates

The chart above shows the projected global carbon credit market size from 2025 to 2050. The range shows lower and upper bounds for 2030 and 2050 only, reaching up to $250 billion by 2050 (in 2024 prices).

Growth depends on demand: high demand with loose supply drives the market upward, while low demand with loose supply results in the lower bound. The range widens significantly by 2050, reflecting uncertainty in future policy, technology, and corporate demand.

Indonesia’s $1 billion carbon-trade goal at COP30 shows how fast the global carbon market landscape is changing. The country’s mix of policy reforms, new partnerships, and project pipelines demonstrates leadership among developing nations.

At the same time, efforts by Brazil, Iraq, Singapore, Kenya, and the United Kingdom reveal a broader global trend. Carbon markets are no longer experimental—they are becoming a major part of climate finance.

If these systems stay transparent and fair, COP30 could mark the start of a new phase for global carbon trading, one where countries and companies work together to cut emissions and invest in carbon markets.

Tencent to Form Carbon Credit Buyers’ Alliance: How Could it Transform China’s Carbon Market?

Jennifer L
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Tencent to Form Carbon Credit Buyers’ Alliance: How Could it Transform China’s Carbon Market?

Tencent, one of China’s largest technology firms, plans to form a carbon credit buyers’ alliance to help expand the supply of credits in the market. The company aims to launch this initiative by the end of 2025.

Carbon credits allow companies to offset greenhouse gas emissions by supporting projects that reduce or remove carbon. As firms face growing climate targets, the supply of high-quality carbon credits is becoming a key issue. Tencent’s initiative may help meet demand while improving market trust.

Tencent’s Scale and Market Muscle

Tencent is well placed to lead such an initiative. In 2024, the company reported revenue of RMB 660.3 billion (almost US$92 billion), up 8% year-on-year. Its gross profit rose by 19%.

With such scale and financial strength, Tencent has the capacity to invest in market mechanisms and alliances. Its size gives it market power. This can attract other corporations, project developers, and tech partners to join the alliance.

Tencent’s share price has shown a notable rise year‑to‑date, with a gain of around 50 % over the past 12 months. On a more recent weekly basis, the stock recorded a smaller uptick of approximately 2 % over the past five trading days. 

Tencent Holdings stock price 700

What Tencent Aims to Achieve

The news was revealed by Ella Wang, a senior program director at Tencent’s Climate Innovation Hub, in an interview at the United Nations’ COP30 climate summit in Brazil.

The alliance will bring together corporations, investors, and carbon project developers. Tencent’s main aim is to make more carbon credits available for companies that want to reduce their net emissions. Many businesses now have a hard time finding certified credits. They especially seek high-quality ones from verified projects.

Tencent also plans to introduce digital tools to track carbon credit projects. These tools will make it easier for buyers to verify that credits are genuine and that projects deliver real environmental benefits.

The company envisions a market where credits are easier to trade and pricing is more predictable. The alliance can standardize processes and verification methods. This will help prevent disputes and reduce market confusion.

Moreover, the use of credible carbon credits is part of Tencent’s strategy to reach its carbon neutrality goal.

Tencent carbon neutrality roadmap
Source: Tencent

How the Alliance Will Work

Tencent expects its carbon credit alliance to bring together firms from the technology, manufacturing, and consumer sectors across Asia. The aim is to boost supply from Global South countries and to create a collective demand signal.

The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with GenZero. GenZero is a decarbonization investment platform owned by Temasek. Under this MoU, Tencent can offtake at least one million verified carbon credits over 15 years. This means at least one million tonnes of greenhouse gases will be avoided or removed.

Digital tools will play a key role. Monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) technologies, possibly leveraging blockchain or advanced data, will help ensure that credits are real, measurable, and traceable. That helps raise trust in credits and the market. The alliance will also likely help:

  • Support project developers to fund, certify, and issue credits.
  • Ensure credits meet common quality standards.
  • Create easier market access for buyers and sellers, reducing transaction costs and risks.

The Carbon Credit Market: China and Global Context

China’s carbon market is already big and growing. In 2021, the government started a national carbon trading system. This system includes key industries like power generation, cement, and steel. It allows companies to trade emission allowances and provides financial incentives to reduce pollution.

China’s national emissions trading system (ETS) includes over 5 billion metric tons of CO₂. This accounts for more than 40 percent of the country’s emissions.

Experts say that the use of digital tools and alliances like Tencent’s could help scale the market faster. Improved tracking and verification can make carbon trading more credible. Companies that were previously cautious may feel more confident in participating.

A recent study shows that China’s market contributes more than half of the global total among trading markets. The global voluntary carbon credit market is set to grow fast.

One estimate puts its value at $2.1 billion in 2025. It could reach $19.8 billion by 2035. Another forecast says the global carbon market could reach up to $250 billion by 2050 under the most favorable conditions. 

Where Credits Fall Short and Prices Swing

The demand for verified, high-quality carbon credits currently appears to exceed supply in many markets. For example, when China reopened its voluntary carbon credit market in 2024, the price of the new China Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) credits briefly rose to 107.36 yuan (≈USD 14.82) per ton and then fell to 72.81 yuan (≈USD 10).

These swings reflect a mismatch of demand and supply, as well as price uncertainty. On the compliance side, China’s ETS currently covers over 2,200 power plants and industrial firms. Analysts say that as the market grows in steel, cement, and aluminum, it could cover about 8 billion metric tons. This is over 60% of China’s emissions.

Given this, companies that need credits to meet their emissions targets may face a tight supply of trusted credits. Tencent’s buyers’ alliance could close the gap. It would pool demand, aid verification, and boost supply.

Why Corporations Are Joining

Companies are under increasing pressure to meet net-zero or carbon reduction goals. High-integrity carbon credits give them a way to offset unavoidable emissions. By joining Tencent’s alliance, firms can:

  • get access to a larger pool of credits,
  • reduce the risk of buying low-quality or unverifiable credits,
  • shape market standards together with peers, and
  • benefit from the credibility boost of a coordinated group.

For smaller companies, the alliance can help them get credits at a lower cost. It can also allow for shared purchasing. In turn, stronger credit supply and verification can boost companies’ confidence in meeting climate goals. This may also help attract investors, regulators, and customers.

What This Means Beyond China

If the alliance succeeds, it may influence carbon credit markets beyond China. A reliable mechanism in China for verified credits can:

  • attract international buyers seeking high-quality credits,
  • set an example for digital verification and collaboration in Asia and other emerging markets,
  • encourage more supply from Global South countries by signalling demand, and
  • potentially increase cross-border trade in credits as integrity improves.

Given that the global voluntary credit market is expected to grow strongly, improvements in supply, standards, and transparency matter. This initiative may help bridge the gap between compliance systems and voluntary offset markets.

projected global carbon credit market 2050

Tencent’s Bold Step Forward

Tencent’s plan to form a carbon credit buyers’ alliance comes at a time when corporate demand for verified credits is rising, and the supply side still faces challenges. With remarkable revenue and financial results, Tencent has the capacity to lead such an initiative.

By pooling demand, supporting verification, and using digital tools, the alliance may help improve supply and market trust. For corporations, this offers a path to more reliable offsets and could serve as a model for boosting high-integrity credits. 

How well the alliance deals with the challenges will shape its impact. But as an effort, this marks a meaningful step toward more organized, transparent, and scalable carbon credit markets in China and beyond.

China’s Renewables Soar: 18 Months of Stable Emissions Mark Turning Point

Saptakee S
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China’s Renewables Soar: 18 Months of Stable Emissions Mark Turning Point

A recently published report from CarbonBrief explained that China’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have shown signs of stabilization for the past 18 months, from March 2024 through the third quarter of 2025. This marks a major shift for the world’s largest emitter, as strong renewable energy growth and electric vehicle (EV) adoption begin to offset emissions from heavy industry.

china emissions

China’s Renewable Boom Drives a Historic Emissions Slowdown

The global renewable boom adds further momentum. International Energy Agency’s (IEA) Renewables 2025 report shows that the world added over 510 GW of renewable capacity in 2024 — the fastest pace in history. Another 520 GW is expected in 2025, with solar making up nearly 75% of new installations.

China alone contributes nearly 60% of the world’s renewable capacity — around 1,400 GW in total. Renewables now supply over 35% of China’s electricity, up from 27% in 2020.

Notably, China’s emissions have remained flat or slightly fallen for six consecutive quarters — a remarkable change after decades of growth. The key driver behind this trend is the country’s unprecedented expansion of renewable energy capacity.

  • According to the IEA, in 2025 China added about 240 gigawatts (GW) of solar and 61 GW of wind capacity in the first nine months alone, setting a new global record.

Solar power generation rose 46% year-on-year, while wind increased by 11%. These clean energy gains allowed China to meet rising electricity demand — which grew by 6.1% in Q3 2025 — without increasing fossil fuel use.

china renewables
Source: IEA

Furthermore, power-sector CO2 emissions held steady in the third quarter, supported by renewable growth and small boosts from nuclear and hydropower. As renewables continue to expand, they are covering nearly all of the new electricity demand in China.

Electric Vehicles Cut Transport Emissions

The rapid growth of electric vehicles has been another key factor in flattening China’s emissions curve. The CarbonBrief report highlighted that in the third quarter of 2025, transport fuel emissions dropped by 5% year-on-year, as more drivers switched from gasoline and diesel cars to EVs.

This trend also highlights China’s policy success in electrifying its vehicle fleet. The country leads the world in EV production and adoption, supported by strong government incentives and expanding charging networks.

However, emissions from other oil-consuming sectors rose by 10%, driven mainly by a surge in chemical and plastics production. This increase in industrial demand offset the transport sector’s emission gains and kept total oil-related emissions slightly higher.

China ev adoption

Industrial Emissions Paint a Mixed Picture

While China’s renewable and EV progress is impressive, heavy industries continue to weigh on its emission profile. In the third quarter of 2025:

  • Cement and building materials emissions fell 7%, reflecting a prolonged real estate slowdown.
  • Steel sector emissions declined 1%, even as output dropped 3%.

Interestingly, lower demand in steelmaking was absorbed mostly by electric-arc furnace (EAF) producers, who are less carbon-intensive. Yet, China’s transition toward cleaner steelmaking remains slow due to entrenched coal-based production and limited policy enforcement.

Meanwhile, chemical industry emissions surged, with both coal and oil consumption rising sharply in 2025. This sector has become a major emissions hotspot, offsetting gains in construction and power generation.

Gas demand also grew modestly — 3% overall — with power sector consumption up 9%. While natural gas emits less CO2 than coal, its rising use still adds to total emissions.

china coal

2025 Emissions: A Fine Balance

  • As of late 2025, China’s total CO2 emissions stood around 15.1–15.2 gigatonnes, making up roughly 30–35% of global emissions.

That’s about the same level as last year, showing a fine balance between sectors reducing emissions and others increasing them.

September 2025 provided a positive signal: emissions fell about 3% year-on-year, raising the likelihood that the full-year total will show a slight decline. Since electricity demand — and thus emissions — usually peak during hot summer months due to air conditioning, the fourth quarter will determine whether 2025 records an actual drop.

CarbonBrief also analysed that even a 1% decrease or increase would hold major symbolic value. China’s policymakers have repeatedly said that emissions can still grow before 2030, leaving the exact “peak year” undefined. A small drop in 2025 could signal that the country’s emissions have already plateaued ahead of schedule.

Despite its renewable energy boom, China is set to miss its 2025 carbon intensity target, which aimed to reduce CO2 emissions per unit of GDP by 18% compared with 2020 levels. Current data suggests that only about a 12% reduction has been achieved.

CHINA EMISSIONS 2025

China’s Long-Term Climate Strategy: The Path to 2030

To meet its 2030 goal — a 65% reduction in carbon intensity from 2005 levels — China will now need a much steeper 22–24% cut over the next five years. This will require stronger emission control measures, industrial efficiency improvements, and faster deployment of low-carbon technologies.

The shortfall also raises the stakes for China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), which will likely set a more ambitious emissions reduction framework.

President Xi Jinping’s announcement in September 2025 introduced a new 2035 greenhouse gas target — to cut total emissions by 7–10% below peak levels. However, since the peak year remains undefined, the level of that peak will directly determine how steep future reductions must be.

If China’s emissions peak closer to 2030, achieving the 2035 target would require more drastic cuts. But if the peak already occurred around 2024–2025, the path toward carbon neutrality becomes smoother.

In conclusion, China’s next few years will define its climate legacy. The nation’s renewable leadership has already reshaped global clean energy markets. The next challenge lies in translating that power into sustained, absolute emission reductions — a crucial step toward a genuine net-zero future.

Meta’s $600 Billion AI Bet: Building the Next Generation of Data Centers

Jennifer L
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Meta’s $600 Billion AI Bet: Building the Next Generation of Data Centers

Meta has announced one of the biggest technology investments in history — over $600 billion by 2028 to build new artificial intelligence (AI)-ready data centers across the United States. The plan aims to boost computing power, support local economies, and promote sustainability.

This huge spending marks a turning point for both Meta and the wider tech industry. As demand for AI grows, so does the need for energy, data processing, and new infrastructure. Meta’s goal is to meet this demand while keeping its projects efficient and climate-friendly.

Building the Next Generation of AI Infrastructure

AI systems require enormous amounts of computing power. A 2024 study reported that U.S. data centers consumed over 4% of the nation’s electricity in 2023. They also emitted about 105 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, making up more than 2% of total U.S. emissions. With AI workloads growing rapidly, these figures will rise further.

  • Meta plans to bring over 1 gigawatt of AI computing power online by 2026, supported by its purchase of more than 1.3 million GPUs this year.

These centers will have high-performance chips and strong cooling systems. These facilities will manage AI training and storage for products like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. They will also support future apps using generative AI.

The company said the new centers will be designed for both speed and sustainability. Each site will include advanced energy-saving technologies, improved water-cooling systems, and high-efficiency servers.

Meta also plans to team up with energy companies. They want the electricity for their data centers to come from renewable sources, like solar and wind. In one notable example, it is partnering with Blue Owl Capital on a $27 billion AI data center project in Louisiana. It shows both the scale of financing and the strength of public-private partnerships.

This expansion is expected to create thousands of construction and tech jobs across several states. Local communities near Meta’s campuses, such as in Iowa, Texas, and Utah, have gained from previous investments. New data centers should provide similar benefits. This includes better infrastructure and training programs for the workforce.

Greener Tech, Bigger Goals

Meta says sustainability is central to its $600 billion plan. The company adds 15 gigawatts of new clean energy capacity across the country. This helps modernize the grid and expand clean energy.

The company aims to reach net-zero emissions across its entire value chain by 2030. It already claims to run its global operations with 100% renewable energy, but future growth will test that commitment.

Meta is expanding its renewable energy partnerships. It is also signing long-term power purchase agreements to meet its climate goals. It also aims to use new tools that will help measure and cut emissions from construction materials, transportation, and hardware manufacturing.

Meta renewable energy projects map
Source: Meta

Water management is another focus. Many data centers require large volumes of water for cooling. Meta aims to be water-positive by 2030. This means it will restore more water to local ecosystems than it uses. Projects to restore wetlands and protect river basins are already underway near its U.S. facilities.

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Racing to Power the AI Boom

Meta’s move reflects a major trend across the tech industry: the race to build AI-capable infrastructure. AI models are getting bigger and more complex. They need more computing power and energy than ever.

  • According to industry surveys, 85% of current data centers are not yet AI-ready, underscoring the importance of this next-generation buildout.

In the past year, top tech firms have announced new spending on AI infrastructure. The total adds up to hundreds of billions of dollars. Meta’s $600 billion push sets a new benchmark and signals how serious this competition has become.

However, this rapid expansion also raises new challenges. Data center growth is putting pressure on electricity grids, land use, and local resources. Analysts warn that without strong planning, this surge could lead to higher energy costs or strain local water supplies.

data center electricity demand due AI 2030
Source: IEA

At the same time, the sector is innovating fast. Engineers are testing several solutions. They’re looking at liquid-cooling systems, heat-recycling technologies, and AI-based monitoring tools. These aim to cut down on waste. Many experts believe the next generation of data centers will be far more energy efficient than the ones built just a few years ago.

Big Tech Moves: Microsoft, Google, and Amazon

Meta is not alone in investing heavily in AI-ready data centers. Other big tech companies are building up their infrastructure. They need to handle the rising demand for cloud computing and AI workloads.

  • Microsoft plans to invest about $80 billion in AI and data centers.

The tech giant has over 400 facilities around the globe. The company continues to grow its Azure regions, creating thousands of construction and tech jobs. Microsoft teams up with local governments and utilities. This helps its projects boost renewable energy and support community growth.

  • Amazon/AWS runs about 135 hyperscale data centers.

The ompany invests billions each year to grow their cloud infrastructure. Its projects in states like Pennsylvania and Virginia create many jobs. This includes both construction and ongoing operations. Amazon often engages local suppliers and workforce programs to maximize regional economic benefits.

  • Google has around 130 hyperscale sites worldwide.

It is also investing billions in AI-focused facilities, with projects in Germany and India. These centers help create local jobs, including technical and construction roles. They also support community development efforts. Google emphasizes energy efficiency and clean power, aligning its growth with environmental and sustainability goals.

big tech AI data center planned growth 2030
Data source: Company announcements and industry news

These moves reveal a clear trend: major tech firms are racing to create next-gen infrastructure. They aim to boost economic growth, create jobs, and provide regional benefits.

At the same time, they face shared challenges, including land use, energy supply, and community impact. These companies work with local authorities and invest in renewable energy. This helps them grow while also being responsible.

What Lies Ahead for Meta and the Data Center Market

In the next 5 years, analysts expect a big increase in global demand for data center capacity. This is especially true for facilities built for AI workloads. If Meta’s $600 billion plan proceeds on schedule, the company could add several gigawatts of new computing capacity by the end of the decade.

This growth will also influence renewable energy markets. To power so many facilities sustainably, Meta and other tech firms will need to secure long-term renewable energy deals, invest in energy storage, and help modernize aging power grids.

Industry observers say this could create a positive cycle: as more companies demand clean power, utilities will have a greater incentive to expand renewable generation. The challenge will be ensuring that this transition happens fast enough to match the pace of AI adoption.

If Meta keeps its promises, this project might show how big AI systems can grow while being eco-friendly. The next few years will show whether the company’s vision — of technology that empowers both people and the planet — can truly become a reality.

Carbon Sinks and Carbon Credits: How Nature and Innovation Are Fighting Climate Change

Saptakee S
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Carbon Sinks and Carbon Credits: How Nature and Innovation Are Fighting Climate Change

As the planet faces mounting climate threats, carbon sinks have become crucial allies in reducing greenhouse gases. These natural and artificial systems absorb and store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, helping to balance human emissions.

Beyond their environmental role, carbon sinks also generate carbon credits, which drive climate finance and support global net-zero ambitions. This article explores the world’s largest carbon sinks, their significance, and how carbon credits are fueling a low-carbon economy.

Nature’s Carbon Vaults: Forests, Oceans, and Soils

Forests: Earth’s Green Lungs

Forests are among the most powerful carbon sinks on the planet. Globally, they absorb around 30% of CO2 emissions from human activities. Trees capture carbon through photosynthesis and store it in biomass and soils. Boreal forests in Russia hold the largest terrestrial carbon stock, followed by tropical forests in the Amazon and Congo Basin, and temperate forests in the U.S. and China.

Yet forests are under threat. In 2023 and 2024, extreme wildfires and deforestation sharply reduced forest carbon uptake. Bolivia, for example, suffered its largest fire season in 2024, releasing 400 million metric tons of CO2. These events turned forests from carbon sinks into net emitters, highlighting the urgent need for forest conservation, restoration, and sustainable management. Protecting forests is essential to avoid overloading natural systems that cannot absorb unlimited carbon.

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Oceans: The Planet’s Largest Carbon Sink

Oceans absorb roughly 25-30% of human-generated CO2 and about 90% of excess heat from global warming. They store carbon through biological processes and chemical absorption, sequestering it in water, sediments, and marine life.

However, rising ocean temperatures are weakening this sink. In 2023, oceans absorbed nearly a billion tons less CO2 than usual—equivalent to about half of the European Union’s annual emissions. Reduced solubility of CO2 in warmer water threatens climate stability. Protecting marine ecosystems and limiting ocean warming are critical to maintaining this natural buffer.

Blue carbon credits

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Soils and Peatlands: Hidden Giants of Carbon Storage

Soils store more carbon than the atmosphere and living vegetation combined. Through regenerative agriculture—practices like cover cropping, crop rotation, and reduced tillage—soil carbon can be enhanced. Peatlands, though covering just 3% of the land, hold vast carbon reserves. Yet drainage and degradation turn them into net emitters. Restoration efforts not only recapture carbon but also revive biodiversity, making them dual-purpose climate solutions.

Collectively, forests, oceans, and soils absorb around half of anthropogenic CO2 emissions, serving as crucial buffers against climate change. But these systems are finite and vulnerable. Recent data show that relying solely on natural sinks without reducing fossil fuel emissions is risky.

REGENRATIVE AGRICULTURE

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Artificial Carbon Sinks: Technology Steps In

While natural sinks face limits, innovation offers new pathways. Artificial carbon sinks aim to capture and store CO2 at scale.

Direct Air Capture (DAC) extracts CO2 directly from the air and stores it underground or uses it in industrial applications. Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) combines biomass energy production with carbon capture to achieve net removals. Though promising, these technologies require scaling, investment, and supportive policies to complement natural sinks.

By combining natural and artificial solutions, the world can accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions while reducing the pressure on fragile ecosystems.

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Carbon Credits: Turning Carbon into Climate Finance

Carbon credits are tradable instruments representing verified reductions or removals of CO2. They provide financial incentives for businesses, landowners, and countries to invest in climate-positive projects.

Key Ways Carbon Credits Are Generated

  1. Renewable Energy Projects
    Projects replacing coal and fossil fuels with solar, wind, or other renewables generate credits from avoided emissions. Initiatives like the Coal to Clean Credit Initiative (CCCI) also prioritize social sustainability by supporting communities affected by the transition.
  2. Forestry and Land Use Projects
    Credits arise from afforestation, reforestation, avoided deforestation, and forest conservation. Regenerative agriculture and agroforestry also sequester carbon in soils while improving biodiversity and water quality.
  3. Agricultural Methane and Waste Management
    Capturing methane from livestock manure, landfills, and biogas plants generates credits. These projects prevent potent greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.
  4. Industrial Energy Efficiency and Green Hydrogen
    Improving industrial processes to cut emissions or producing green hydrogen through renewable-powered electrolysis offer emerging credit opportunities.
  5. Soil Carbon and Peatland Restoration
    Enhancing soil carbon and restoring degraded peatlands generate removal credits, reversing emissions while improving ecosystem health.

carbon credits issuances

Verification and Standards: Every carbon credit project must measure and report its emissions reductions against a baseline. Third-party verification under standards like Verra, Gold Standard, or CCCI ensures transparency and environmental integrity.

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The World’s Largest Carbon Sinks

WORLDS LARGEST CARBON SINK

Conclusion: Balancing Emissions with Action

Carbon sinks—forests, oceans, and soils—remain indispensable in the fight against climate change. They stabilize the climate while providing biodiversity, water, and social benefits. Artificial carbon sinks and verified carbon credits further amplify their impact, linking environmental action with economic incentives.

Recent data from 2023-2025 show that natural sinks are under increasing stress: wildfires, deforestation, rising ocean temperatures, and soil degradation all reduce carbon absorption. Experts warn that relying on sinks alone to balance emissions is dangerous.

However, these systems are not unlimited. Without major emission reductions, natural sinks risk being overwhelmed. A holistic climate strategy combines:

  • Immediate cuts in fossil fuel emissions.
  • Protection and restoration of natural sinks.
  • Deployment of artificial carbon removal technologies.
  • Robust carbon credit frameworks to fund climate action.

Through this integrated approach, the world can safeguard natural carbon reservoirs, promote innovation, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. The message is clear: protecting and enhancing carbon sinks is not optional—it is essential for achieving net-zero goals and securing a resilient, sustainable future.

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Europe Unveils $108B Clean Fuel Plan to Decarbonize Aviation and Shipping by 2035

Jennifer L
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Europe Unveils $108B Clean Fuel Plan to Decarbonize Aviation and Shipping by 2035

The European Union (EU) has announced a new $108 billion (about €100 billion) investment plan to speed up the production and use of cleaner fuels for aviation and shipping. The plan, called the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan or STIP, will run until 2035.

It is one of the largest efforts in Europe to cut emissions from two of the hardest sectors to decarbonize—aviation and maritime transport. The EU hopes the program will help meet its climate targets and strengthen Europe’s leadership in clean energy technology.

The plan aims to boost the economy. It will create jobs, attract private investors, and build new industries centered on sustainable fuels.

Why Planes and Ships Should Go Green

Airplanes and ships play a vital role in global trade and travel. However, they release a lot of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The aviation sector alone is responsible for about 3% of global emissions, and that number is rising as air travel grows.

Unlike cars or trains, airplanes and large ships cannot easily switch to battery power. That is why sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and synthetic e-fuels are key to cutting emissions in these sectors. These fuels can be made from renewable sources such as used cooking oil, waste, or captured carbon, and can often be used in existing engines.

However, cleaner fuels are still much more expensive to produce than traditional jet fuel. The new EU plan aims to close this price gap by providing investment support, policy certainty, and funding for research and infrastructure.

EU investment needs for aviation and maritime transport
Source: EC

Key Goals of the $108B Investment Plan

The Sustainable Transport Investment Plan brings together funding, regulation, and private partnerships to scale up clean fuel production across Europe. Its main targets include:

  • 20 million tonnes of sustainable fuels will be produced each year by 2035.
  • Around 13 million tonnes of biofuels and 7 million tonnes of e-fuels.
  • Deployment of clean fuel technology in both aviation and maritime transport.
  • Greater energy independence and industrial competitiveness for Europe.

The EU expects to mobilize at least €2.9 billion by 2027 as a first step. Part of the money will come from existing EU programs such as InvestEU, the European Hydrogen Bank, the Innovation Fund, and Horizon Europe. These programs will help finance new fuel plants, research projects, and pilot facilities.

For example, more than €300 million will support hydrogen-based fuels for planes and ships. €150 million will support synthetic fuel projects. Additionally, €130 million will fund research on new clean fuel technologies.

EU STIP investment actions
Source: EC

The plan promotes partnerships among governments, energy companies, and airlines. This helps ensure that supply and demand increase together.

Building a Market for Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Today, sustainable aviation fuels make up less than 1% of Europe’s total jet fuel supply. The new investment plan aims to change that by building a large and stable market for cleaner fuels.

Under new EU rules, ReFuelEU Aviation and FuelEU Maritime, airlines and shipping companies must slowly boost their use of renewable fuels. The rules require at least 2% SAF by 2025, 6% by 2030, and 70% by 2050 for aviation.

EU clean fuel target for aviation

To meet these targets, Europe needs dozens of new refineries and production plants. The investment plan offers developers more financial certainty. This should help attract private capital. Many companies have been hesitant to invest in SAF plants because of high costs and uncertain returns.

By combining regulation with financial incentives, the EU hopes to lower these risks and attract long-term investors.

The plan also promotes the creation of fuel offtake agreements, where airlines commit to buying a set amount of SAF each year. This helps producers secure financing, knowing there will be demand for their product once it is ready.

Experts expect global production of SAF to rise substantially by 2030. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) says that in a “high +” policy scenario, production might hit about 16.97 million tonnes by 2030. This would meet around 5% of the expected aviation fuel demand.

Other reports suggest figures such as 6.1 to 8.2 billion gallons (~23–31 million tonnes) by 2030 based on announced projects and capacity. Most analyses say that, despite this growth, the industry needs more support. This includes policy help, feedstock expansion, and better technology. These steps are crucial to meet even modest blend targets.

global SAF capacity 2030

Economic and Environmental Impact

The EU estimates that scaling up SAF and e-fuels could create tens of thousands of new jobs across Europe. These jobs would come from building new plants, upgrading infrastructure, and managing supply chains for renewable fuels.

Economic benefits also include:

  • More investment in rural areas where biofuel feedstocks are grown.
  • Strengthened local industries producing renewable hydrogen and carbon-capture systems.
  • Reduced dependence on imported oil and gas.

Sustainable aviation fuels can cut lifecycle carbon emissions by 70–90%. This reduction depends on how they are made, compared to fossil-based jet fuel. E-fuels made from green hydrogen and captured carbon can potentially be near-zero emission.

If Europe achieves its production targets, the total fuel savings could cut up to 200 million tonnes of CO₂ by 2035. That would be a major step toward meeting the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal.

What are the Challenges to Overcome?

While the EU plan is ambitious, experts warn that several obstacles remain, including:

  1. Feedstock supply: Europe needs to secure enough sustainable raw materials, like waste oils and residues. This must happen without harming food production or ecosystems.
  2. Cost gap: SAFs currently cost 2x to 5x times more than traditional jet fuel. Subsidies and long-term contracts will be needed to make them affordable for airlines.
  3. Infrastructure: Airports and ports will need to upgrade storage and refueling systems to handle new fuel types safely.
  4. Permitting and construction: Building new fuel plants can take years, and delays in approvals could slow progress.
  5. Global competition: The U.S. and Asia are also investing heavily in clean-fuel production. Europe must remain competitive while keeping its sustainability standards high.

Despite these challenges, many in the aviation industry see the plan as a turning point. Airlines, manufacturers, and energy companies are working together to pilot new fuel technologies and increase production capacity.

Next Steps for Cleaner Skies

Over the next two years, the EU will focus on building early projects and securing private investment. The first wave of large-scale SAF facilities could begin operations by 2027.

The European Commission will also monitor fuel availability, costs, and emissions reductions. Annual progress reports will help track whether Europe is on pace to meet its 2030 and 2035 milestones.

If successful, the plan could become a model for other regions looking to decarbonize aviation. Similar programs are under discussion in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan. As the world races toward net zero, the success of this plan could help define how fast aviation and shipping can truly go green.

COP30 Begins with a Call for Delivery, with Carbon Credit Rules Taking Shape

Jennifer L
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0
COP30 Begins with a Call for Delivery, with Carbon Credit Rules Taking Shape

The 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) opened yesterday in Belém, Brazil. From the start, the message was clear: climate change is happening now, and solutions must follow. Nearly 200 countries gathered to turn promises into results. The formal agenda was adopted quickly, which signals a move away from long debates and toward implementation.

President Lula remarked during the summit’s opening:

“We are moving in the right direction, but at the wrong speed…This COP must be remembered as the COP of Action — a conference that turns commitments into results. It is time to integrate climate, economy, and development, creating jobs, reducing inequalities, and strengthening trust among nations.”

Adaptation and Resilience: Real Stories, Real Need

On the first day, adaptation and resilience took center stage. Many communities around the world are already dealing with floods, heat waves, droughts, and storms. At COP30, developing nations stressed they can’t wait for future help. They need infrastructure, early warning systems, and solid support now.

For example, Brazil is using the summit to elevate adaptation as an investor-ready field. A report shows that every dollar spent on resilience can produce up to four dollars in benefits.

The summit’s agenda includes projects such as climate-smart agriculture, restoring mangroves, and strengthening infrastructure. These are not just ideas—they are proven “best buys” in food, water, health, nature, and infrastructure.

RAIZ is a global program aimed at restoring degraded farmland. It also helps strengthen agriculture in vulnerable areas. The aim is to turn land that once produced little into productive, climate-resilient farmland. Such a project tackles food security, livelihoods, and climate risk all at once.

These stories show that adaptation is urgent. The challenge will be making sure the promised funds arrive and that they reach the people and communities who need them most.

Innovation and Technology: Tools for Change

Technology and innovation were also prominent on Day 1. Countries and organizations discussed digital platforms, AI tools, satellite monitoring, and data systems. They aim to measure and track climate action better.

During a showcase at COP30, an agricultural innovation package was launched to help millions of farmers. The package includes an open-source AI model to support farmers in vulnerable regions. This shows how technology can empower local communities—not just big cities or corporations.

These tools matter for carbon credit markets, too. Accurate tracking, measurement, and verification of emissions reductions depend on strong data systems. For companies and project developers in carbon markets, good tech means more confidence that credits represent real change.

The $1.3 Trillion Question: Who Pays for Climate Action?

Financing remains one of the biggest obstacles. On this first day, many developing nations made it clear: they need more money to adapt and reduce emissions. But the structure of responsibilities came into the spotlight as well.

Major emitters such as the United States, China, and India sent lower‐level representation to COP30. These three countries together account for nearly half of global emissions. Fewer resources mean climate finance might weigh more on other areas, especially Europe and vulnerable nations.

Before COP30, Brazil and finance ministers suggested a plan. This roadmap aims to boost global climate finance to about US$1.3 trillion each year. This is a huge sum compared to current flows. It aims to mobilize grants, private capital, bank reform, and new financing models. The question now is: will the money show up at scale and quickly?

global climate finance vs COP30 target

For the carbon markets and ESG community, finance connects directly to credibility. Without enough money for adaptation projects, carbon credit systems, and technology, strong markets may not succeed.

Carbon Markets Under Pressure: A Vital Story

A central thread for ESG and carbon market watchers at COP30 is the state of the carbon crediting mechanism under the Paris Agreement (Article 6.4). This mechanism allows projects to generate credits for verified emissions reductions, which countries or companies can use. But the system faces headwinds.

Here are the key facts:

  • The Supervisory Body reported a funding shortfall of around US$13 million this year.
  • Rules on the following are in place—but the supply pipeline remains uncertain.
    • Baseline: What was the starting point?
    • Additionality: Did the project occur because of the credit?
    • Leakage: Did emissions just shift elsewhere?
    • Permanence: Will the reduction last?) 
  • Because major emitters have not fully committed to using such credits yet, demand and clarity are still developing.
article 6.4 PACM
Source: UNFCCC

In Brazil’s home terrain, big tech and carbon credit developers are already active. For example, a Brazilian startup working on reforestation is supplying credits to major tech firms. Buyers are willing to pay higher prices for what they believe are higher-quality credits. But they warn that there are still many projects of ambiguous quality.

For companies using carbon credits as part of their ESG strategy, these issues matter. If credit supply is slow or credibility is questioned, companies may find fewer, higher-cost options. Investors and project developers will watch for who steps in to fill the funding gap, how supply scales, and whether credible markets emerge.

Missing Voices, Shifting Power 

Day  1 also highlighted a significant challenge: participation gaps. When countries responsible for large shares of global emissions send lower-level delegations, it raises questions about global cooperation and the scale of the response.

For example, the U.S., China, and India—the biggest three—sent less senior representation to COP30. Observers say this leaves a leadership vacuum and puts more burden on others to carry the financing, negotiation, and implementation load. One commentator said COP30 may risk becoming “a global ATM” for climate finance if coordination doesn’t improve.

For carbon markets, the risk is fragmentation. If different regions adopt different rules, or if major emitters operate outside emerging frameworks, companies may face divergent standards, higher costs, or regulatory risks.

A unified market helps lower transaction costs, boosts liquidity, and builds trust. Day 1 showed that building that unity is still a work in progress.

What to Watch in the Days Ahead

As COP30 unfolds, several signals will matter for ESG, carbon markets, and climate action:

  • Will there be concrete pledges to fill the funding gap for the Article 6.4 mechanism? Will donors and countries commit more funds so credit supply can scale?
  • Will major emitters increase their engagement, or remain at arm’s length? The level of their participation will shape both cooperation and market confidence.
  • Will adaptation finance be connected with market-based solutions (for example, nature-based carbon credits, forest protection, regenerative agriculture)? A good sign would be projects where adaptation, resilience, and mitigation align.
  • Will new platforms or coalitions for linked carbon markets emerge? For example, proposals from Brazil talk about connecting national carbon systems into a global “Open Coalition for Carbon Market Integration.” If that gains traction, it could boost market scale.
  • Will technology and data systems be scaled across developing countries so they can participate in carbon markets, track progress, and report credibly? Without that, the markets remain narrow and less credible.

Day 1 of COP30 in Belém brought strong signals. The world is shifting from talk toward implementation. Adaptation, resilience, technology, finance, and carbon markets all featured prominently. 

Yet, the challenges remain. Participation gaps, funding shortfalls, market uncertainty, and divergent standards all pose risks. For ESG professionals, project developers, and investors, the message is clear: the summit’s value will be judged by whether systems, markets, and finance begin to deliver, not just whether pledges are made.

COP30 may mark a turning point, but it will succeed only if what is announced today becomes action tomorrow.

Gevo’s Q3 2025 Earnings Fuel Optimism for Its SAF and Carbon Credit Growth Strategy

Saptakee S
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0
Gevo’s Q3 2025 Earnings Fuel Optimism for Its SAF and Carbon Credit Growth Strategy

Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO) delivered a major earnings surprise for the third quarter of 2025, posting results that exceeded Wall Street expectations and highlighted a sharp turnaround in its financial performance.

Record Revenue Growth and Strong Financial Recovery

For Q3 2025, Gevo reported revenues of $43.6 million, far above analyst forecasts of $37.03 million, and a dramatic increase from about $2 million during the same period last year. The company’s earnings per share (EPS) came in at a loss of $0.03, beating the expected loss of $0.04.

Most notably, Gevo achieved a positive adjusted EBITDA of $6.7 million, marking its second consecutive quarter of profitability. This was a major improvement compared to a loss of $16.7 million a year ago, reflecting improving operational efficiency and higher cash flow from its facilities.

The company ended the quarter with $108 million in cash, ensuring a strong liquidity position as it continues investing in growth projects.

gevo earnings
Source: Gevo

North Dakota Facility Powers Carbon and Ethanol Gains

Gevo’s North Dakota operations were the cornerstone of its quarterly success, contributing $12.3 million in operational income. This performance was driven by efficient low-carbon ethanol production, carbon sequestration, and robust sales of clean fuel and voluntary carbon credits.

During the quarter, the site achieved several operational milestones:

  • Produced 17 million gallons of low-carbon ethanol
  • Generated 46,000 tons of protein and corn oil co-products
  • Sequestered 42,000 tons of carbon dioxide
  • Produced 92,000 MMBtu of renewable natural gas (RNG)

Gevo’s Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) system has now stored over 560,000 metric tons of CO₂ since its launch in June 2022, making it the world’s first ethanol dry mill to achieve commercial-scale carbon storage.

The company also capitalized on Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credits (CFPCs), selling all its remaining 2025 credits worth $30 million, bringing total CFPC sales for the year to $52 million. This reflects Gevo’s ability to monetize carbon-linked incentives effectively.

Carbon Credit Expansion Strengthens Revenue Mix

Gevo is rapidly scaling its carbon revenue streams. In Q3 2025, the company signed a multi-year offtake agreement expected to generate around $26 million in Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) credit sales over five years, with the potential to increase volumes.

By the end of 2025, Gevo expects carbon co-product sales to grow to $3–5 million, up from $1 million in Q2. The company projects that long-term annual carbon revenues could exceed $30 million as it optimizes its carbon accounting and trading systems.

Gevo’s carbon credits are certified under the Puro.Earth standard, ensuring over 1,000 years of permanence, among the most durable forms of carbon removal on the market. Its customers include Nasdaq and Biorecro, signaling growing confidence from corporate buyers in Gevo’s durable carbon removal capabilities.

This dual-income approach, combining low-carbon fuel sales with carbon credit monetization, strengthens Gevo’s position in both the voluntary and compliance carbon markets.

gevo carbon credits
Source: Gevo

Strategic Focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is the main pillar of Gevo’s long-term strategy. Through its proprietary Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) technology, the company converts renewable ethanol into low-carbon jet fuel, helping airlines decarbonize air travel.

Gevo plans a Final Investment Decision (FID) by mid-2026 for its upcoming ATJ-30 plant, a project designed to scale synthetic SAF production at its North Dakota site. Once completed, the plant could play a central role in meeting the aviation sector’s growing SAF demand.

SAF Market Forecast

The global SAF market is expanding rapidly. In 2025, the market was valued at about $2.25 billion but is forecasted to soar to $134.57 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of over 57 percent, according to industry estimates. This surge is driven by regulatory mandates, green aviation goals, and policies like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and the EU’s ReFuelEU Aviation Initiative.

SAF market

Gevo’s integrated approach linking SAF production, ethanol output, and carbon monetization aligns perfectly with the industry’s transition toward net-zero aviation. As the company scales ethanol production to 75 million gallons annually, it expects a substantial boost in SAF output and carbon credit revenues.

Carbon Capture and Policy Incentives Drive Future Growth

The company capitalizes on the intersection of clean fuel policy, carbon markets, and technology innovation. By sequestering carbon at its ethanol facilities, the company captures and sells verified carbon credits while also producing renewable fuels that qualify for federal incentives.

With growing policy support and rising carbon prices, Gevo is positioned to benefit from both market-based carbon trading and tax credit monetization. The Section 45Z clean fuel credits, in particular, provide strong financial incentives that enhance the company’s margins and encourage further expansion.

As governments tighten emission standards and airlines commit to net-zero targets by 2050, the demand for SAF and durable carbon credits will continue to rise. Gevo’s technology and operations are built to meet this challenge while maintaining commercial viability.

Investor Confidence and Stock Performance

Following its strong Q3 2025 results, Gevo’s stock rose over 4 percent in after-hours trading, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s growth trajectory. The stock trades around $2.12 per share with a market capitalization of about $513 million.

Investors are increasingly viewing Gevo as a clean-energy growth stock, citing:

  • Consistent revenue growth and improving EBITDA margins
  • Clear strategic direction toward SAF and carbon capture
  • Effective monetization of clean fuel tax credits and carbon offsets

The company’s solid balance sheet, strong policy tailwinds, and successful operational execution position it favorably within the renewable hydrocarbon fuels market.

gevo stock
Source: Yahoo Finance

Gevo’s Role in the Green Aviation Future

The aviation sector targets a 65% reduction in emissions through SAF by 2050.  And companies like Gevo will play a critical role in meeting that goal. Its ATJ technology, carbon sequestration systems, and integration with carbon markets make it one of the few clean fuel developers with a fully circular carbon strategy.

Significantly, its North Dakota operations serve as a blueprint for carbon-negative fuel production, proving that decarbonization and profitability can coexist. With expansion plans for 2026 and beyond, the company is well-positioned to scale both its fuel and carbon businesses.

From Now to 2060: How Canada’s SMRs and Maritime Nuclear Power Will Drive a Net-Zero Future

Saptakee S
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0
From Now to 2060: How Canada’s SMRs and Maritime Nuclear Power Will Drive a Net-Zero Future

According to DNV’s 2025 Energy Transition Outlook, North America is on a slow but steady path toward a low-carbon future. The forecast shows fossil fuels will fall from 72% of final energy demand in 2024 to 45% by 2050, and further to 31% by 2060.

While the U.S. has seen policy shifts and slower progress due to changing political priorities, Canada’s energy policies remain relatively stable. Together, the two nations continue to move toward decarbonization, driven by clean technology investments and rising public support for sustainable energy.

fossil fuel North America
Source: DNV report

U.S. Faces Fuel Security and Supply Chain Hurdles

The U.S. nuclear sector faces a different challenge — fuel dependency. As of 2023, the U.S. imported 99% of its uranium, with nearly one-third sourced from Russia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan — countries with complicated diplomatic relations.

Developing a domestic nuclear fuel production capability has become a priority. The DOE is investing in research to expand uranium mining, enrichment, and HALEU production. These efforts are crucial for the future success of the SMR program and national energy security.

Until SMRs become commercially viable in the early 2030s, U.S. nuclear capacity growth will primarily come from reactor life extensions and the reopening of mothballed plants, such as Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania.

Nuclear Power Boost and Support Across the Continent

In this backdrop, nuclear power is enjoying its strongest public and political backing in a decade. In both the U.S. and Canada, nuclear energy is being recognized for its reliability and role in achieving net-zero targets.

In Canada, nuclear is the second-largest source of non-emitting electricity and contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions. Ontario leads the way, with nuclear supplying nearly 60% of its total electricity. The province continues to invest in maintaining and extending reactor lifespans to ensure energy security and meet climate goals.

Despite this renewed interest, DNV notes that nuclear power’s near-term growth will be modest. However, its long-term outlook is strong, with nuclear capacity projected to increase from 115 gigawatts (GW) today to 232 GW by 2060. Most of this growth will come after 2045, primarily from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

nuclear smr canada
Source: DNV report

SMRs: The Future of North American Nuclear Energy

Large-scale nuclear projects have struggled in recent decades with cost overruns, construction delays, and public opposition. Even with continued policy incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, big reactors are costly, slow to build, and difficult to integrate with flexible renewable grids. These challenges make new large-scale reactors (LSNs) impractical for the short term.

Modern energy systems increasingly require power sources that can ramp up and down quickly to complement solar and wind. Large reactors lack this agility. SMRs, by contrast, can operate flexibly, be built faster, and support grid stability in renewable-heavy systems.

  • Each SMR unit typically produces around 100 MW, making financing and construction more manageable than billion-dollar LSN projects.

DNV forecasts that SMRs will reach cost parity with large reactors by around 2045. Their modular design reduces construction risks, while their operational flexibility allows them to ramp up or down quickly — a crucial feature for grids with high solar and wind penetration.

Though still in the development phase, SMRs are advancing rapidly. Strong backing from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the Canadian government is accelerating research and demonstration projects.

SMR canada
Source: DNV report

Canada’s SMR Leadership and the Darlington Advantage

Canada is emerging as the North American frontrunner in SMR technology. The Darlington SMR project in Ontario, led by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and funded partly by the Canada Infrastructure Bank, is on track to become the first grid-scale SMR in North America by 2030.

This milestone could position Canada as a global leader in modular nuclear deployment. However, challenges remain. Canada currently lacks the facilities to produce HALEU (High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium), the fuel needed for most SMR designs.

While Canada has strong uranium reserves and manufactures fuel for its traditional CANDU reactors, it must still develop a domestic HALEU supply chain to maintain its early-mover advantage in SMR deployment.

Key Projects and Timelines

CANADA NUCLEAR

Maritime Nuclear: A New Frontier for Clean Energy

Beyond the grid, DNV forecasts that nuclear energy could power up to 10% of North America’s maritime and near-shore energy demand by 2060 — up from an estimated 3.5% by 2050.

The maritime sector faces mounting pressure to decarbonize under the International Maritime Organization’s Net Zero by 2050 goals. SMRs could provide a solution, offering a zero-emission, high-density energy source for shipping and port operations.

Some developers are exploring floating SMR concepts capable of supplying clean power to docked vessels, reducing local air pollution, and protecting coastal ecosystems.

However, nuclear adoption in maritime transport faces high capital costs, complex financing models, and regulatory barriers. Nuclear-powered ships would require new rules and safety frameworks, particularly in countries with stringent oversight like the U.S. and Canada.

Still, advocates argue that the combination of energy density, low emissions, and efficiency makes nuclear an attractive option for a future low-carbon shipping industry.

Policy, Regulation, and Competitiveness

Regulatory complexity remains a major obstacle for both land-based and maritime nuclear expansion. Compared to countries like China, North America’s safety and environmental regulations add significant costs and time to nuclear construction.

A recent bipartisan push in the U.S. to revitalize domestic shipbuilding for national defense could help reduce barriers and provide incentives for SMR integration into shipyards. Yet, to compete globally, U.S. manufacturers will need to improve both shipbuilding capacity and SMR cost efficiency — a difficult combination to achieve in the near term.

The Long Road to 2060

DNV’s analysis paints a realistic, not overly optimistic, picture. The energy transition is happening, but slowly. Fossil fuels remain dominant in the near term, but nuclear, renewables, and clean fuels will take an expanding share of the mix.

By 2060, North America could see a fully integrated clean energy system, with flexible SMRs supporting renewables, new fuels decarbonizing industry and transport, and fossil fuels pushed to the margins.

The message is clear: the energy transition is inevitable but uneven. Governments, investors, and innovators that act early on SMRs and clean technologies will define the region’s next industrial wave.

Nevada Lithium Hub: Why Surge Battery Metals Holds the Key to U.S. EV Independence

Jennifer L
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0
Nevada Lithium Hub: Why Surge Battery Metals Holds the Key to U.S. EV Independence

Disseminated on behalf of Surge Battery Metals Inc.

Nevada is known for its wide deserts and rich mining history. Today, it is earning a new reputation – as the center of America’s electric vehicle (EV) and battery revolution. The state now produces over 80% of all lithium mined in the U.S., and its output is growing fast.

Nevada’s lithium industry is vital to the nation’s clean-energy goals. In 2025, the state is expected to produce between 25,000 and 40,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE), with production growing at an annual rate of about 40% as new projects begin operations. This growth is supported by a surge of new investment and innovation—from lithium mining to advanced battery manufacturing.

Lithium is at the core of this transformation. It is the key metal that powers EVs, grid batteries, and renewable energy systems. As global demand continues to soar, developing a steady domestic supply has become a top U.S. priority. 

For the country, it is both an economic and an energy security issue. Nevada is becoming the cornerstone of that vision, with its mineral potential, strong infrastructure, and mining-friendly policies. 

Growing Demand for Domestic Lithium

Global lithium demand is expanding rapidly. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects it will increase nearly fivefold by 2040, driven by the global shift to EVs and clean-energy storage. The world’s total known lithium resources now exceed 115 million tonnes, while the U.S. holds about 19 million tonnes—mostly in Nevada and California.

lithium demand outlook IEA
Source: IEA

Even so, the U.S. still imports most of its lithium. Domestic production makes up less than 2% of global supply, leaving the country dependent on imports from Chile, Australia, and China. This creates major risks for automakers and energy companies that rely on steady, affordable lithium.

To meet its clean-energy goals, the U.S. must grow its domestic lithium base fast. Nevada’s large claystone and brine deposits make it the natural hub for that expansion. The state’s deposits are unique in both size and accessibility, giving it a strong edge in supplying the raw materials for EV batteries.

Introducing Surge Battery Metals and the Nevada North Lithium Project

At the center of this growth is Surge Battery Metals. The company’s main project, the Nevada North Lithium Project (NNLP) in Elko County, represents one of the highest-grade lithium clay deposits in the U.S.

Nevada North Lithium Project (NNLP)
Source: Surge Battery Metals

According to its latest resource estimates, NNLP holds 11.2 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) at an average grade of 3,010 parts per million (ppm) lithium. This grade is higher than most comparable projects across North America.

Surge’s Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) highlights strong numbers:

  • Post-tax Net Present Value (NPV8): US$9.2 billion
  • Internal Rate of Return (IRR): 22.8%
  • Operating cost: US$5,097/t LCE
  • Mine life: 42 years

NNLP Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA)

The project is located only 13 kilometers from major power lines and has all-season road access. It has received a Record of Decision and a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), allowing expansion across 250 acres. With these clearances in place, Surge is years ahead of many early-stage lithium explorers.

Nevada’s Role in Building the U.S. EV Supply Chain

Nevada’s geography and infrastructure make it the ideal base for America’s EV supply chain. The state hosts both lithium claystone deposits in the north and brine basins in the south. This creates multiple sources for battery materials. It is also close to key automotive and battery hubs in California and Arizona, as well as Tesla’s Gigafactory in Sparks.

This location advantage saves both time and money. Lithium mined in Nevada can be refined, processed, and shipped to nearby gigafactories—all within a few hundred miles. 

Compared with importing from overseas, this can reduce transport emissions by up to 70% and cut logistics costs significantly. The shorter distances also lower the carbon footprint of battery production, aligning with U.S. clean-energy policies.

Nevada’s mining and manufacturing sectors are now creating thousands of new jobs and drawing billions in private investment. Projects like the US$1 billion Lyten sulfur battery plant in Reno highlight how the state is becoming a full-scale clean-energy hub, from raw materials to finished batteries.

Surge Battery Metals fits right into this ecosystem. Its Nevada North project could provide the lithium feedstock for future gigafactories, supporting the U.S. plan to localize the entire EV battery supply chain—from mining and processing to assembly and recycling.

Strengthening U.S. Energy Security

By advancing NNLP, Surge Battery Metals directly supports national efforts to secure critical minerals. Producing high-grade lithium within U.S. borders reduces dependency on foreign supply chains and increases resilience against global market shocks.

Unlike imported materials that pass through multiple countries, lithium from Nevada can move straight from mine to factory under stable U.S. regulations. This local sourcing helps ensure long-term supply reliability for automakers while boosting domestic job creation.

Surge Battery Metals also follows environmental, social, and governance (ESG) best practices. Lithium clay mining uses less water and creates lower carbon emissions than many traditional methods. 

The company plans to integrate water recycling and land reclamation into its operations to minimize impacts on nearby ecosystems. As environmental scrutiny grows, such responsible practices make projects like NNLP more attractive to both investors and manufacturers seeking sustainable materials.

Challenges, Opportunities, and the Road to EV Independence

Nevada’s lithium boom presents both opportunities and hurdles. Developers must continue working closely with local communities and regulators to manage water use and protect land resources. 

Battery-grade lithium production requires careful processing, and achieving consistent 99% purity – a goal Surge is testing toward – takes time and investment.

Market volatility remains a factor. Lithium prices have been fluctuating. In 2025, it moved between US$8,300 and US$11,525 per tonne, reflecting tight supply and demand cycles. Yet analysts expect strong long-term growth as EV adoption continues worldwide.

Nevada’s emerging lithium industry offers a rare chance to strengthen U.S. energy independence while creating thousands of high-tech jobs. For investors, it represents both a challenge and an opportunity – a chance to help build a fully domestic clean energy economy.

The push for EV independence is about building cars as well as securing the materials that power them. Nevada is leading that effort, combining resource strength, infrastructure, and innovation.

Surge Battery Metals’ Nevada North Lithium Project embodies this shift. With a high-grade resource, strong economics, and a strategic Nevada location, the company is positioned to become a key supplier in America’s energy transition.

DISCLAIMER 

New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com (“We” or “Us”) are not securities dealers or brokers, investment advisers, or financial advisers, and you should not rely on the information herein as investment advice. Surge Battery Metals Inc. (“Company”) made a one-time payment of $50,000 to provide marketing services for a term of two months. None of the owners, members, directors, or employees of New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com currently hold, or have any beneficial ownership in, any shares, stocks, or options of the companies mentioned.

This article is informational only and is solely for use by prospective investors in determining whether to seek additional information. It does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Examples that we provide of share price increases pertaining to a particular issuer from one referenced date to another represent arbitrarily chosen time periods and are no indication whatsoever of future stock prices for that issuer and are of no predictive value.

Our stock profiles are intended to highlight certain companies for your further investigation; they are not stock recommendations or an offer or sale of the referenced securities. The securities issued by the companies we profile should be considered high-risk; if you do invest despite these warnings, you may lose your entire investment. Please do your own research before investing, including reviewing the companies’ SEDAR+ and SEC filings, press releases, and risk disclosures.

It is our policy that information contained in this profile was provided by the company, extracted from SEDAR+ and SEC filings, company websites, and other publicly available sources. We believe the sources and information are accurate and reliable but we cannot guarantee them.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “plan,” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.

These factors include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company’s exploration and development plans, the potential of its mineral projects, financing activities, regulatory approvals, market conditions, and future objectives. Forward-looking information involves numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility, the state of financial markets for the Company’s securities, fluctuations in commodity prices, operational challenges, and changes in business plans.

Forward-looking information is based on several key expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and will be able to raise additional capital as required. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended.

There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances except as may be required by applicable law.

For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company’s continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

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