CO₂ offset certificates are documents that certify the reduction or avoidance of one tonne of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂eq). They are issued by climate projects that help to protect the environment.

To offset their CO₂ emissions, companies and individuals can buy CO₂ compensation certificates. By purchasing a certificate, they finance a climate project that has reduced or avoided one tonne of CO₂ emissions.

CO₂ offset certificates are issued by third-party organisations, such as non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or government agencies. These organisations check that climate projects meet strict criteria, including :

• The link between the project and the CO₂ certificate must be clearly established.
• The project must have a positive impact on the environment.
• The project must be sustainable over time.

CO₂ offsetting certificates are subject to international standards, such as the Kyoto Protocol or the Emissions Reduction and Offset Scheme (ERS). These standards guarantee that the certificates are issued in a transparent and reliable manner.

What are offset CO₂ certificates used for?
They are used to finance climate projects that meet strict criteria (link between the project and the certificate; proof of compliance; annual monitoring) regulated by international standards. By purchasing recognised CO₂ certificates, you are guaranteed to offset your CO₂ emissions.

What types of climate projects can be carried out using CO₂ certificates?
A wide range of international projects is available, and we can send you some examples. These projects are subject to strict standards that guarantee the unique use of each tonne offset. The issue of CO₂ certificates is monitored by organisations such as SQS or SGS.

The carbon offset mechanism consists of buying certificates for reducing CO2 emissions (from climate projects) and using them to offset its own emissions. By purchasing certificates, you finance one or more environmental projects that reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions. The compensation entitles you to a "CO2 neutral" designation.

The Net Zero concept, on the other hand, implies sequestration of emissions and no longer compensation. To be in line with the Net Zero concept, it is therefore necessary to be able to extract and store emissions over the long term. Compensation by certificates therefore no longer applies. An organization or country that wants to achieve Net Zero must ensure that a volume of CO2 equivalent to what is emitted is sequestered.

The sequestration market can operate according to the same principles as the clearing market. Some sequestration certificates are also coming onto the market but the rates are still very high. A price reduction is expected in the coming years, but sequestration projects are still lacking.

Climate Services is happy to assist you in the search for attractive projects and in transactions for compensation. It is important to use the right terminology and communication strategy to avoid confusion with your stakeholders. Do not hesitate to tell us about it.