Founding Chairman’s Message

As we stand at the crossroads of the carbon market’s evolution, the Global Carbon Council (GCC) emerges as a vanguard, tirelessly shaping a future where climate action and sustainability intertwine with impact. The journey, from the only compliance market of the Kyoto Protocol to today’s dynamic landscape encompassing voluntary markets, Article 6.2 Markets, and the CORSIA market, has ushered in a new era of possibilities.

These three streams of carbon markets are not just catalysts for climate action; they are transformative instruments propelling the globe towards a net-zero paradigm by 2050. Voluntary carbon credits play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of National Determined Contributions (NDCs). Simultaneously, Article 6.2 and the CORSIA market provide vital channels for climate finance, particularly uplifting the Global South.

In this pivotal moment, GCC is not merely expanding its capacity; it is set to unveil a myriad of frameworks across different categories in the coming years. Among these, we proudly introduce our Carbon Capture and Storage Regulatory and Nature Based Solutions Framework —a definitive commitment to the permanence of emission removals. These frameworks, integral to our solution program, represent a monumental stride in our dedication to advancing sustainable practices and combatting climate change.

For us, carbon markets are not just tools for catalyzing climate action; they are the linchpin for realizing a net-zero world. We steadfastly believe in embracing all types of mitigation activities across all 16 sectoral scopes of the UNFCCC.

As we gear up to construct sophisticated registries, our hands are extended to fortify countries’ registry infrastructure. In close collaboration with nations on the policy and dimension of Article 6.2, we are committed to developing their capacities, translating commitment into tangible actions on the ground through robust support mechanisms.

Our commitment to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s CORSIA program remains unwavering. Progressing through the pilot and first phases, we diligently work towards meeting the robust requirements set by the Integrity Council for Voluntary Carbon Markets (ICVCM) standards.

Beyond being instruments for catalyzing climate action, we view carbon markets as powerful tools for promoting sustainable development and benefiting communities and societies at large.

GCC stands resolute in its mission to collaborate with countries, standards and stakeholders to issue highly credible emission reductions, carbon credits and removals, ultimately propelling the world towards its net-zero targets.

Together, let us chart a course for a more beautiful, sustainable, and resilient future.

Dr. Yousef Alhorr
Dr. Yousef Mohammed Alhorr

Founding Chairman