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 offsetting in the voluntary carbon market (VCM), with some use in national/regional compliance carbon markets. This picture is beginning to shift to include new sources of demand for credits in the emerging compliance carbon markets, both national and under the UN.
Content up-to-date at time of publication
The Carbonwise editorial team is formed of seasoned established industry writers and specialist journalists.
18 March 2026
This graphic illustrates the process of carbon credit issuance - from project design to verification and all the steps between.
23 February 2026
In February, the European Commission launched a consultation to seek views on the use of international carbon credits to help meet the EU climate target for 2040.
18 February 2025
An independent governance body involving a diverse group of stakeholders with the aim of setting guidance on best practice for the corporate use of project-based carbon credits.
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Partner with the Carbonwise team to produce innovative educational content on Carbon Markets.
