Emissions Avoidance & Removals Projects

Emissions avoidance and emissions removal are different approaches to reducing the atmospheric build-up of greenhouse gases. Both are vital if we are to reach net zero emissions by 2050. These graphics provide examples of both approaches to help explain the difference.

Content up-to-date at time of publication

Voluntary Carbon Market

DATA COMPILED BY

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

LATEST VISUAL LEARNING

This chart shows the total amount of man-made emissions created by the world's biggest polluters.
The amount of atmospheric CO2 has charted a steady climb higher. The Mauna Loa Observatory on the north flank of volcano of the same name
Refers to the period – usually a calendar year – in which an emissions reduction, avoidance or removal takes place. Carbon credits are often listed

VER

Voluntary Emission Reductions or Verified Emission Reductions. A general term used to describe project-based carbon credits.
The iron and steel industry faces a significant challenge: how to continue producing the steel needed for infrastructure and economic growth while cutting carbon emissions.

24 September 2026

GLOSSARY
Vintage

Refers to the period – usually a calendar year – in which an emissions reduction, avoidance or removal takes place. Carbon credits are often listed as being of a particular vintage.

24 September 2026

GLOSSARY
VER

Voluntary Emission Reductions or Verified Emission Reductions. A general term used to describe project-based carbon credits.

9 September 2025

ARTICLE
What Does California’s Cap-and-Invest Program Mean for the Steel Sector?

The iron and steel industry faces a significant challenge: how to continue producing the steel needed for infrastructure and economic growth while cutting carbon emissions.

Work with us

Partner with the Carbonwise team to produce innovative educational content on Carbon Markets

Work with us

Partner with the Carbonwise team to produce innovative educational content on Carbon Markets.

Sign up to our monthly newsletter for the latest content releases, events, training offers & more!​

Join the Carbonwise community