Europe’s top publicly traded companies are stepping up in their climate commitments. They are making strong promises to offset a large part of their greenhouse gas emissions. A new study from the Berlin climate platform goodcarbon shows that 29 of the 50 companies in the EURO STOXX 50 index will buy 81.8 million tonnes of carbon offset credits by 2030. This will help them reach their net-zero goals.

This trend shows a change in how companies tackle climate action. They are not just cutting direct emissions. They are also investing in voluntary carbon markets (VCMs) to balance their carbon footprint.

The analysis reviewed the 2023 and 2024 sustainability reports of top firms such as Siemens, Airbus, Unilever, Schneider Electric, and Allianz, among others. Companies see voluntary offset commitments as smart tools. They help address tough emissions and support nature-based climate solutions.

Unlocking Climate Finance Through Early Commitments

Many companies want to buy carbon credits, which is a good sign for a growing market. However, most still rely on spot market purchases. This means they buy credits close to when they need them. This method offers flexibility but misses a major opportunity for climate impact.

Goodcarbon suggests an alternative way: making early, binding financial commitments to specific climate projects.

Companies can promise to buy a set amount of carbon credits ahead of time. They can specify the funding amount, where the project will be, and when they want delivery. The actual payment can happen later.

This early commitment strategy would:

• Enable climate project developers to secure upfront financing, allowing for better long-term planning.
• Help unlock additional environmental and community co-benefits.
• Protect companies from rising prices in the future. Carbon credit prices are likely to increase due to higher demand by 2030.

Jérôme Cochet, Co-Founder and CEO of goodcarbon, emphasized the untapped potential:

“We estimate that these companies have allocated approximately one billion euros for voluntary CO₂ compensation by 2030. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, this isn’t a huge amount. But companies could significantly boost the impact of these funds simply by making them available sooner—without any extra cost.”

This model can help make sure that money for climate action starts working now, not years later.

The Role of goodcarbon in Facilitating Nature-Based Solutions

Founded in 2021, goodcarbon connects companies to top-notch nature-based carbon projects. These projects focus on CO₂ sequestration, protecting biodiversity, and developing communities. It helps businesses buy reliable offsets while also supporting them in adding these offsets to their long-term sustainability plans.

The platform stands out because it helps companies connect with project developers. This boosts transparency and ensures strict scientific checks. Projects are chosen for three main reasons:

• Climate effectiveness,
• Benefits to biodiversity, and
• Fair sharing of advantages with local communities.

In April 2024, goodcarbon secured a €5.25 million seed funding round to scale its services and expand its library of carbon offset projects. The company focuses on “goodcarbon Originals.” These are carefully chosen nature-based projects. They meet high standards for integrity, additionality, and community impact. These include:

• Mangrove restoration efforts in Southeast Asia;
• Agroforestry and regenerative agriculture initiatives in Latin America;
• Peatland protection and rewetting projects in Northern Europe.

Goodcarbon wants to reduce project developers’ financial risk. They encourage early investment with binding contracts, which helps increase access to capital for high-impact solutions.

The Broader Context of Voluntary Carbon Markets

Voluntary carbon markets are seen as important additions to cutting emissions directly. In VCMs, companies buy carbon credits from certified projects. These projects help remove or avoid emissions. Examples include reforestation and renewable energy development.

According to data from the Ecosystem Marketplace SOVCM 2025 Report, the total value of carbon credits traded in the VCM decreased by 29% in 2024, reaching $535 million. This amount is lower compared to previous years.

However, this market value is still nearly twice (1.9 times) as high as it was in 2018, largely because prices have remained relatively stable. More notably, the decline in market value corresponds to a 25% reduction in transaction volume rather than a drop in overall demand.

Buyers have become more selective, prioritizing higher-quality carbon credits. As a result, prices have not fallen significantly. This pattern indicates that although market liquidity has decreased, the fundamental interest in carbon credits—particularly those with strong environmental credibility—continues to be robust.

• SEE MORE: VCM Makeover in 2024: Carbon Credit Trading Drops 25%, Removals Soar 381%

Each credit represents one tonne of CO₂ equivalent avoided or removed from the atmosphere. However, VCMs are also under scrutiny. Critics have pointed to issues with:

• Additionality (ensuring that projects wouldn’t happen without credit sales),
• Permanence (guaranteeing long-term CO₂ storage),
• Leakage (preventing emissions from shifting to other areas), and
• Double-counting.

In response, new integrity frameworks are emerging. The Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (ICVCM) recently launched its Core Carbon Principles. Meanwhile, the EU’s Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) will standardize project quality across the bloc.

Despite their imperfections, VCMs are gaining traction. In early 2025, BloombergNEF reported that voluntary carbon markets are more “connected and coordinated.” This shows they are becoming more mature and scalable.

The market could grow from $2 billion in 2022 to over $50 billion by 2030, fueled by net-zero pledges and regulatory shifts.

Corporate Leadership and Climate Accountability

For Europe’s top firms, the decision to engage in long-term carbon offsetting is both a strategic and reputational move. Stakeholders are watching how companies act on their climate promises.

Here are some EURO STOXX 50 companies with clear carbon offsetting strategies as part of their net-zero commitments. They lead in the VCM as supported by their sustainability or ESG reports.

1. Siemens (Germany)

Siemens has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Their sustainability reports highlight investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and purchasing high-quality carbon credits to offset residual emissions. Siemens actively participates in voluntary carbon markets and supports nature-based solutions as part of their climate strategy.

2. Airbus (France)

Airbus has set ambitious targets to reduce CO₂ emissions with a focus on sustainable aviation fuels and carbon offsetting. Their ESG disclosures include commitments to invest in carbon credits and nature-based projects to compensate for emissions that cannot yet be eliminated. The airline is part of industry collaborations promoting carbon neutrality by 2050.

3. Unilever (Netherlands/UK)

Unilever’s net-zero plan includes reducing emissions across its value chain and offsetting residual emissions via verified carbon credits. Their sustainability reports emphasize nature-based solutions such as reforestation and regenerative agriculture projects. The company has multi-year agreements to purchase carbon offsets and integrates these into its broader climate action framework.

4. Allianz (Germany)

Allianz commits to net zero by 2050 and uses carbon offsetting to address residual emissions. Their ESG disclosures mention investments in high-integrity carbon credits, especially nature-based projects that also provide biodiversity and community benefits. The company supports early carbon finance commitments to scale climate projects.

5. Schneider Electric (France)

Schneider Electric integrates carbon offsetting as part of its comprehensive sustainability strategy. Their multi-year AI-native ecosystem initiative supports better carbon tracking and reduction, including offsets for residual emissions. The company discloses clear targets and investments in voluntary carbon markets and nature-based solutions.

• RELATED: Schneider Electric Launches AI-Native Initiative for Sustainability and Energy Management

Firms like Microsoft, Meta, Google, and Unilever have already entered multi-year agreements for nature-based offsets. The Euro Stoxx 50 analysis shows that many European giants are following suit in their carbon offset strategies.

Still, more action is needed as :

• Of the 50 companies reviewed, only 29 have disclosed voluntary offset targets.
• Many offset commitments remain vague, lacking detail on volume, project type, or timeline.
• Some companies are trying insetting. This means they invest in cutting emissions in their own value chains, which might become more popular along with offsets.

There is also a growing push for third-party verification and independent auditing of carbon credits. Platforms like goodcarbon play a role here by curating verified projects and enhancing market trust.

Time to Activate Dormant Climate Capital

The goodcarbon analysis shows that about €1 billion in potential climate finance is unused in corporate climate strategies. If committed early through agreements, these funds could back many impactful projects worldwide. They would provide long-term benefits for the climate, ecosystems, and local communities.

As carbon prices increase and climate deadlines near, companies can gain an advantage. Smart carbon offsetting strategies help STOXX 50 companies secure quality credits and show climate leadership.

The message is clear: offsetting isn’t a last-minute task. It’s a climate finance opportunity that, if acted on now, could reshape how businesses contribute to a net-zero future.

• READ MORE: Amazon Unveils Carbon Credit Investment Service: A Game Changer for Corporate Sustainability

The post Europe’s Corporate Giants, STOXX 50, Commit to Offset Over 80 Million Tonnes of CO₂ by 2030 appeared first on Carbon Credits.

NuScale Power has won design approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for its upgraded 77 megawatt-electric (MWe) small modular reactor (SMR). This marks a key moment for the U.S. nuclear energy industry.

NuScale first submitted its Design Certification Application (DCA) for its 160 MWt (50 MWe) small modular reactor (SMR) design in March 2017. The NRC later approved, making it the first SMR design to earn NRC certification. Thus, this second NRC-approved SMR design builds on NuScale’s previous 50 MWe model.

This announcement boosts the push for reliable, low-carbon energy as demand for cleaner electricity grows. NuScale, now the only SMR firm with NRC-approved designs, is set to play a major role in the energy transition.

Carrie Fosaaen, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Services, noted,

“NuScale is proud to have worked with the NRC and to have met its stringent regulatory application process as we continue to lead the way in the SMR industry with our second design approval. “With today’s announcement, NuScale continues to advance with ENTRA1 Energy in the commercialization of our SMR technology inside ENTRA1 Energy Plants while remaining steadfast in our mission to improve the quality of life for people around the world through safe, clean energy.”

NuScale’s SMR: Designed for a Low-Carbon Future

NuScale Power Corporation was founded in 2007. It developed the first and only SMR to receive NRC design certification. Its special pressurized water reactor design focuses on flexibility, safety, and carbon-free energy.

Each NuScale module can be combined into multi-module plants producing up to 924 MWe with 12 units. This technology supports various applications, including:

• Electricity generation

• District heating

• Desalination

• Hydrogen production

• Process heat for industry

As countries shift to cleaner energy, NuScale’s compact, scalable design meets the needs of both emerging economies and developed nations, replacing old infrastructure.

John Hopkins, NuScale President and Chief Executive Officer, said,

“We are thrilled that the NRC has approved our second SDA application, this time for our 77 MWe design. This marks a historic moment not only for NuScale, but the entire industry, as NuScale and ENTRA1 move closer to meeting the demands of clean energy users. For more than a decade, our team has proudly worked alongside the NRC to achieve the successful approval of our designs. The NRC is domestically and internationally recognized and respected for its rigorous safety standards, and this approval is a crucial step toward meeting our goal of providing clean, reliable, and, most importantly, safe energy to off-takers and consumers.”

Uprated SMR Design Boosts Capacity and Economics

The press release reveals that NuScale applied for the uprated 250 MW thermal (77 MWe) reactor on January 1, 2023. The NRC’s early approval, expected later in 2025, highlights the strong safety and regulatory performance of NuScale’s advanced reactor design.

Each NuScale Power Module™ in this new setup generates 77 MWe. Up to six modules can work together in a single plant, totaling 462 MWe—about a third of a conventional reactor’s size. The upgraded design keeps all the passive safety features from the 50 MWe version while enhancing energy output and cost-effectiveness.

NuScale’s reactors use natural forces like convection and gravity to cool the core without

Needing extra power, water, or human help, these features boost safety. They make the technology perfect for remote or decentralized energy markets.

Study details of technical specification here: NPM-technical-specifications.pdf

• LATEST: Trump’s New EOs Revive Nuclear: Fast Reactors, Big Promises, and a Race Against Time

ENTRA1 Energy: Commercializing America’s First SMR Fleet

The NRC’s approval lets ENTRA1 Energy, NuScale’s global partner, market these upgraded SMRs. ENTRA1 has exclusive rights to deploy and run NuScale’s nuclear technology worldwide. They plan to build “ENTRA1 Energy Plants™” with NuScale’s reactors to meet the rising demand for carbon-free, reliable energy.

ENTRA1 provides higher output per module. This means it can offer flexible power solutions for utilities, data centers, and hydrogen production hubs. The company plans to serve both the U.S. and international markets. Its scalable model delivers zero-emission electricity.

The company handles the entire project cycle—development, investment, deployment, and operations—offering a complete solution for next-generation nuclear energy.

What’s Next: Global Deployment and Engineering Work in Romania

With NRC certification, NuScale’s upgraded SMR design can be used in future construction and operation permit applications. This opens new project opportunities in the U.S. and abroad, especially in areas needing reliable, emissions-free power.

NuScale is already planning engineering work for Romania’s RoPower project, a 462-MWe power plant that will feature six NuScale modules. Production of 12 modules is currently underway in South Korea with Doosan, a key partner in building the production pipeline.

• To support this next development phase, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has invested over $575 million in NuScale’s design and licensing efforts.

This support shows how SMRs are seen as vital to U.S. energy security and climate goals.

Electricity generation for data centres by fuel in the United States, Base Case, 2020-2035

A Nuclear Resurgence in the U.S. Backed by Policy and Private Investment

SMRs are gaining traction as the U.S. seeks to replace old coal plants and meet net-zero targets. SMRs, like NuScale’s, can be set up faster than large nuclear plants. They also cost less and are safer. Their modular, factory-built design contributes to these advantages.

NuScale is the only SMR company that has NRC-certified designs. This gives it a regulatory edge and strong credibility in a field where safety matters. The NRC’s approval shows investors and policymakers that SMR technology is viable.

The Biden administration and earlier policies under Trump have supported SMRs. These small modular reactors are vital for the country’s nuclear revival. They offer a stable, emissions-free option to fossil fuels. This is important as grid reliability and decarbonization are now top priorities.

• MUST READ: Meta, Google, and Amazon Join Global Pledge to Triple Nuclear Energy by 2050 

SMRs Power Up the Path to Net Zero

The NRC’s approval of NuScale’s 77 MWe SMR is a milestone for the global nuclear industry. With solid support from the U.S. government, NuScale is ready to lead the SMR market. Strategic partnerships like ENTRA1 and interest from projects like RoPower boost its position.

Utilities and countries want reliable, dispatchable, and carbon-free power. SMRs provide a strong solution. They support renewable energy, enhance energy security, and are key to decarbonizing global energy systems.

NuScale’s recent success points to a bright future for advanced nuclear energy, where innovation, safety, and sustainability unite to power the next generation.

• MUST READ: What is SMR? The Ultimate Guide to Small Modular Reactors 

The post NuScale Secures NRC Approval for 77 MWe SMR Design, Advancing U.S. Nuclear Innovation appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Cement is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, but its production is a major source of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Holcim, a global leader in building materials, is working to change this. The company has officially launched the OLYMPUS project in Milaki, Greece. This project uses advanced carbon capture technology to reduce emissions and aims to set a new standard for the cement industry.

This big move in sustainable building aims to create a modern carbon capture plant. It will make 2 million tons of near-zero cement by 2029. Backed by the Heracles Group, the project plans to reduce CO₂ emissions significantly. It will also create over 1,000 jobs, benefiting both the environment and the local economy.

What Is the OLYMPUS Project Trying to Achieve?

Traditional cement production heavily impacts the planet, releasing about 8% of global CO₂ emissions. This is because making cement involves heating limestone at very high temperatures. This releases a large amount of carbon dioxide into the air.

Holcim wants to change this with its OLYMPUS project. The new plant in Milaki will use advanced carbon capture technology. Its goal is to produce 2 million tons of near-zero cement each year starting in 2029. This means that the cement made at the site will have very low carbon emissions compared to traditional cement.

The project supports the European Union’s wider target of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. It also backs the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across industries. Holcim’s initiative will do more than meet environmental goals. It will also create job opportunities for local economies during the entire project lifecycle.

Miljan Gutovic, CEO Holcim Group said:

“Holcim is on course to make near-zero cement and concrete a reality at scale this decade, as the leading partner for sustainable construction. The OLYMPUS project in Greece is one of our seven large-scale, European Union-supported carbon capture, utilisation, and storage projects that are setting the Clean Industrial Deal in motion. Together, these will enable Holcim to offer over 8 million tpy of near-zero cement across Europe by 2030.”

How Carbon Capture Works at OLYMPUS

The OLYMPUS plant will use two cutting-edge systems: OxyCalciner and Cryocap™ FG. These technologies trap carbon dioxide from cement production and store or reuse it. Together, they can capture about 1 million tons of CO₂ per year at full capacity. This significantly lowers harmful emissions from the cement-making process.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an approach recognized by experts and policy leaders as essential to fighting climate change. The European Union sees CCS as a key part of its strategy to decarbonize industries like cement, steel, and chemicals.

Holcim’s adoption of CCS also reflects a growing trend in the construction sector to adopt cleaner, tech-driven practices. Producing 2 million tons of near-zero cement each year helps lower emissions in construction. This supports countries in reaching climate goals and cutting pollution from buildings.

Along with its environmental goals, the plant will have a strong economic impact. The effort will require an investment of €400 million, including €125 million from the EU Innovation Fund.

• RELEVANT: Carbfix Secures First EU Permit for Onshore Carbon Capture and Storage

Moreover, it will bring over 1,000 construction jobs and over 100 long-term roles once operations begin. The plant will support hundreds of families and strengthen the local economy.

This initiative is also a big part of Holcim’s commitment to decarbonize its operations and reach its net zero goal.

Holcim’s Net Zero Journey: Progress and Initiatives

Holcim has committed to becoming a net-zero company by 2050, with a clear, science-based roadmap aligned with the 1.5°C climate goal validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company’s net-zero strategy covers all greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain, including:

• Scope 1 (direct emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy), and Scope 3 (other indirect emissions such as those from supply chains and product use).

Key Targets and Progress:

• Near-term goals: Holcim aims to reduce gross Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 26.2% per ton of cementitious materials by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline) and Scope 3 emissions by 25.1% per ton of purchased clinker and cement by 2030 (from a 2020 baseline).
• Long-term goals: By 2050, Holcim targets a 95% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions and a 90% reduction in absolute Scope 3 emissions.

The company has already made progress, reducing its CO₂ emissions intensity per ton of product and increasing its use of alternative and renewable fuels.

Major Emission Reduction Initiatives:

Holcim’s net-zero journey is driven by several initiatives:

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS): Holcim plans to invest CHF 2 billion by 2030 in CCUS technologies, aiming to capture over 5 million tons of CO₂ annually and produce 8 million tons of net-zero cement per year. Projects like OLYMPUS in Greece and GO4ZERO in Belgium exemplify this commitment.

Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials: The company is replacing fossil fuels with biomass and other waste-derived fuels in its cement kilns, reducing reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources.

Low-Carbon Products: Holcim offers green concrete (ECOPact) and green cement (ECOPlanet), which have significantly lower carbon footprints than traditional products. These products enable customers to reduce their own emissions in construction projects.

Circular Economy and Recycling: Holcim is a world leader in recycling construction and demolition waste, having recycled 6.8 million tons in 2022 and targeting 10 million tons by 2025. This reduces the need for virgin raw materials and lowers overall emissions.

Smart Design and Digital Innovation: Technologies such as 3D printing allow Holcim to build with up to 70% less material without compromising performance, further reducing embodied carbon in construction.

Holcim’s net-zero journey combines ambitious targets, significant investments in carbon capture and renewable energy, innovative low-carbon products, and circular economy practices. These initiatives show measurable progress and a comprehensive plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

What Do the Market Trends Show for Cement and Carbon Capture?

The global demand for cement is expected to rise due to urbanization and infrastructure development. However, this growth presents challenges for reducing emissions. Without changes in production methods, CO₂ emissions from cement could reach 3.8 gigatons in 2050. CCUS technologies can reduce life cycle CO₂ emissions from cement production by nearly 70%.

The market for carbon capture is growing rapidly. The experts predict that global CCS market could reach $7.5 billion by 2026, with an annual growth rate of 25.2%. Governments want greener industry practices.

Thus, the demand for cleaner materials and emissions technology is rising. Projects like OLYMPUS prove that we can cut emissions significantly. They can also shape future policies and boost investments in green technologies.

Adopting CCUS technologies requires significant investment. The cost of cement is expected to rise from $90–$130 per ton today to at least $160–$240 by 2050 as carbon capture systems are integrated.

Major producers are still investing in CCUS, despite the costs. Successful projects like Holcim’s OLYMPUS can boost innovation and encourage more adoption in the industry.

Setting an Example for the Construction Industry

Holcim’s OLYMPUS project shows that it is possible to produce cement with much lower emissions using current technology. By investing in carbon capture and producing near-zero cement, Holcim is setting a benchmark for the global construction market.

This effort helps meet climate goals. It also boosts the local economy and sets an example for the global construction industry. As demand for cement rises, projects like OLYMPUS prove that it would be possible to build a cleaner, more sustainable future for people and the planet.

• READ MORE: Netherlands Invests $726 Million in Aramis CCS as Shell and Total Shift Strategies

The post Concrete Change: Holcim Launches €400 Million OLYMPUS Project for Near-Zero Cement appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Disseminated on behalf of Boxable Inc.

Home construction has been slow, costly, and inefficient for centuries.

So in 2017, award-winning industrial designer Paolo Tiramani and his tech-entrepreneur son Galiano founded BOXABL to change that – bringing factory-built precision and sustainability to one of the world’s most outdated industries.

Traditional homes take over seven months to build and generate substantial construction waste. BOXABL homes are built in a controlled factory setting, minimizing material loss, cutting emissions from heavy equipment, and allowing for greater energy efficiency in the finished product.

A Smarter, More Efficient Building System

BOXABL’s foldable homes are designed to ship compactly and set up quickly – dramatically reducing transportation emissions and on-site labor. The units arrive with plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and insulation already installed, helping lower lifetime energy use and environmental impact.

This streamlined building method makes housing more affordable and scalable while using fewer resources – with up to two units shipped at once and assembled with minimal waste on site.

Phase 2: From Tiny Homes to Entire Communities

The Casita proved that a home could be factory-built, folded, and delivered – complete with plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Now, BOXABL is preparing for the next chapter: multi-module configurations.

This expansion means the same foldable, shippable building shells used in Casitas can now be combined to create larger structures – including townhomes, single-family houses, and apartments. The system is designed for precision and repeatability, enabling high-quality housing at scale while preserving flexibility for different footprints and use cases.

With this modular capability, BOXABL is laying the foundation for a standardized building system that has the potential to reshape residential development.

Why Investors Are Paying Attention

BOXABL is more than a buzzworthy startup. This is a model that’s already delivering homes and factories at scale:

• 700+ homes built
• 3 dedicated manufacturing buildings
• Backed by one of America’s largest homebuilders
• 40,000+ retail investors already on board
• Until 6/24, investors can share in BOXABL’s growth for just $0.80/share.

Don’t miss your chance to invest in BOXABL before this opportunity is closed for good.

This is a paid advertisement for Boxabl’s Regulation A offering. Please read the offering circular at https://invest.boxabl.com/#circular.

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