COP29: a turning point for carbon markets

Arbonics made its debut at COP29 in Azerbaijan, witnessing a historic milestone in global climate cooperation.

After nearly a decade of negotiations, the adoption of Article 6 has paved the way for a transformative era in international carbon markets. This landmark framework empowers countries to leverage independent crediting programs (ICPs) to achieve their climate goals while unlocking private-sector finance for impactful action.

Leading the charge, organisations like Verra have already showcased the potential of Article 6, collaborating with the Singaporean government and Gold Standard to develop protocols that help nations harness its opportunities.

With these advancements, countries now have a clear pathway to accelerate climate action, attract critical investments, and align with sustainable development goals.

For Arbonics, this progress is more than a milestone—it’s a call to action. As Europe advances its Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF), aligning global and regional frameworks will be essential to scaling climate solutions.

As these frameworks take shape, Arbonics stands ready to lead in applying them to Afforestation and Impact Forestry solutions across Europe and beyond.

Here’s how the decisions made at COP29 shape the future of carbon markets and what they mean for organisations like ours.

A new framework for climate cooperation

Article 6 establishes rules for how carbon credits are created, traded, and accounted for internationally. Meanwhile, the EU CRCF sets high standards for certifying carbon removals in Europe. Together, these frameworks promise integrity, scalability, and inclusivity in carbon markets.

For Arbonics, which operates at the intersection of global and European markets, aligning these frameworks will be key to expanding impact forestry solutions and delivering high-quality credits that meet both global and EU standards.

Article 6.4: a solid foundation for carbon removals

Stronger methodologies, better credits

The decisions on baselines, additionality, and reversal risk management under Article 6.4 strengthen the credibility of carbon credits. These principles align with the CRCF’s focus on robust methodologies, providing a clear roadmap for certifying removals.

For Arbonics, this means using Article 6.4’s rigorous monitoring standards to design projects that not only meet CRCF requirements but also stand out in global markets.

Registries: transparency is key

Article 6.4 introduces a registry to prevent double counting and ensure transparency. This aligns with the CRCF’s goals of robust tracking and verification. However, COP29 left questions about how global and regional systems will integrate.

Arbonics has an opportunity to advocate for seamless registry interoperability. Ensuring that CRCF-certified credits are compatible with global systems will help mobilise private-sector finance and expand the reach of our forestry solutions.

Equity lessons for Europe

Article 6.4 exempts Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) from adaptation proceeds. This commitment to equity can inspire similar measures in the CRCF, ensuring that small landowners and underserved regions in Europe have access to certification opportunities.

Article 6.2: building bridges to global markets

Simplifying authorisation

Article 6.2 streamlines the process for ITMO (internationally transferred mitigation outcomes) authorisation, using standardised templates to reduce complexity. Similarly, CRCF’s success will depend on simplifying processes for certifying removals.

Arbonics can use Article 6.2’s framework to build partnerships across Europe, ensuring that CRCF projects align with global carbon markets. These collaborations will help us scale forestry solutions while engaging international buyers seeking high-quality credits.

Accountability matters

Article 6.2 introduces automated checks for consistency in carbon credit reporting. However, enforcement is weak—countries are only “requested” to avoid using flagged ITMOs.

The CRCF can address this by implementing stricter compliance mechanisms. By ensuring certified projects meet the highest standards of integrity, the CRCF can build market trust.

Arbonics’ expertise in carbon verification positions us as a model for transparent and accountable operations.

How the EU CRCF can fill Article 6 gaps

Seamless integration

The lack of operational clarity on registry interoperability in COP29 decisions creates a gap the CRCF can fill. By developing registries that connect seamlessly with global systems, the CRCF can enhance the value of its certified credits in international markets.

Funding the transition

With Article 6.4 facing a $3.1 million funding shortfall for 2025, the CRCF can leverage EU funding mechanisms to channel investments into high-quality removal projects. Aligning European and global markets can accelerate financing for initiatives like those led by Arbonics.

Raising the bar on accountability

Defining “significant” and “persistent” inconsistencies—something missing in Article 6.2—is crucial for market integrity. The CRCF can lead by setting clear rules, ensuring that its certified credits are trusted globally.

Arbonics: leading the way in carbon markets

Innovating in forestry colutions

The decisions under Article 6.4 align perfectly with Arbonics’ focus on Afforestation and Impact Forestry. By following these guidelines and integrating CRCF principles, we can set benchmarks for high-quality removals.

Sharing expertise at future COPs

Attending COP29 gave us firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities of Article 6. Sharing these experiences with stakeholders, at future COP, and continuing to voice out interests in the negotiating room will strengthen our advocacy for harmonising global and regional standards.

Building partnerships

Engaging in cooperative approaches under Article 6.2 and collaborating with CRCF stakeholders will help us scale our impact. Partnerships will unlock new financing opportunities and enhance the visibility of our projects in global markets.

What are the challenges and opportunities?

The decisions at COP29 represent progress but highlight the complexities in ensuring our projects’ alignment with both Article 6 and the EU CRCF.

To succeed, Arbonics and other stakeholders must:

1️. Advocate for clear rules on registry integration and reporting.

2️. Align projects with both Article 6 and CRCF standards to ensure compatibility.

3️. Participate in shaping stricter enforcement mechanisms.

4️. Build partnerships to expand the reach of high-quality carbon removal projects.

Conclusion: a call to action

COP29’s progress on Article 6 is a turning point for carbon markets. It provides countries with a framework to achieve their Nationally determined commitments (NDCs), mobilise finance, and align with sustainable development goals.

For Arbonics, this moment is both an opportunity and a responsibility. By aligning projects with Article 6 with the EU CRCF and sharing our expertise, we can drive meaningful climate action while setting a global standard for forestry-based carbon removals.

We are prepared to lead the way in shaping the future of carbon markets.