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

Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is a method of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by trapping the gas for industrial use or permanent storage, preventing
The global energy transition is well under way as the world seeks to move away from finite energy sources like fossil fuels to cleaner power
The European Commission proposed several important changes to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) in March after recent pushback from industry over rising costs.
Brown coal, also known as lignite or 'soft coal', is a combustible sedimentary rock formed of naturally compressed peat.
It’s not clear to many how carbon credits come into existence. They don’t just ‘pop up’ in the way central banks increase the currency supply.

24 March 2026

HIGHLIGHT
EC touts major carbon market changes after pressure from industry

The European Commission proposed several important changes to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) in March after recent pushback from industry over rising costs.

23 March 2026

GLOSSARY
Brown Coal/Lignite

Brown coal, also known as lignite or 'soft coal', is a combustible sedimentary rock formed of naturally compressed peat.

18 March 2026

VISUAL LEARNING
How Are Carbon Credits Issued?

It’s not clear to many how carbon credits come into existence. They don’t just ‘pop up’ in the way central banks increase the currency supply.

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