Carbon Positive

Carbon positive generally refers to an entity or business activity which causes emissions of carbon dioxide, while ‘carbon negative’ refers to activities that create a net reduction in CO2 emissions. However, in some instances, usage of the term ‘carbon positive’ can mean the exact opposite: an activity which positively reduces carbon dioxide. ‘Climate positive’ is also sometimes used to refer to activities which benefit the environment. Caution is therefore recommended when dealing with these terms as the intended meaning can vary widely.

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DEFINITION BY

The Carbonwise editorial team is formed of seasoned established industry writers and specialist journalists.

LATEST GLOSSARY

Vietnam’s national carbon market is set to move forward in 2025 with the start of a pilot phase, highlighting progress in a fast-developing regional carbon
The United Nations’ specialised agency for shipping, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), has for the first time agreed on a system that will put a
In the climate space, attention turned to the legal world in late July after the United Nations’ highest court made a ruling on climate liabilities.
This graphic shows the indicative flow of project-based carbon credits to various end-use sources of demand. In the past, most credits were used by companies
Carbon Dioxide Removal. Anthropogenic activities removing CO2 from the atmosphere and durably storing it in geological, terrestrial or ocean reservoirs, or in products.

26 August 2025

HIGHLIGHT
Nations can be held legally accountable for their greenhouse gas emissions: UN’s top court

In the climate space, attention turned to the legal world in late July after the United Nations’ highest court made a ruling on climate liabilities.

19 August 2025

VISUAL LEARNING
Carbon Market Convergence

This graphic shows the indicative flow of project-based carbon credits to various end-use sources of demand. In the past, most credits were used by companies for corporate...

15 August 2025

GLOSSARY
CDR

Carbon Dioxide Removal. Anthropogenic activities removing CO2 from the atmosphere and durably storing it in geological, terrestrial or ocean reservoirs, or in products.

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