Improving Additionality Assessment in Voluntary Carbon Markets

Faculty Lead: Roberto Rigobon, professor of applied economics at MIT Sloan School of Management

Voluntary carbon markets are predicted to play a crucial role in global efforts to reach Net Zero. However, recent evidence points to major flaws in current market practices. A particular issue is the missing additionality of many carbon offset projects. In this project, we will generate a unique database of carbon offset projects to develop metrics to detect failures in current additionality assessment practices. We will also use our insights to develop recommendations on how to improve these practices, in collaboration with industry experts and with a focus on natural sink projects. The findings of this project will be valuable for MCSC member companies that seek to include high-integrity carbon projects in their sustainability efforts.