Uncategorized – Page 41 – The Global Carbon Fund

Surge Announces Former Berkshire Hathaway Energy Executive Mr. Richard Weech Joins the Board as an Independent Director

March 17, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Disseminated on behalf of Surge Battery Metals Inc.

March 17, 2026: West Vancouver, BC; Surge Battery Metals Inc. (the “Company” or “Surge”) (TSXV: NILI, OTC: NILIF, FRA: DJ5C) is pleased to announce that former Berkshire Hathaway Energy executive, Mr. Richard Weech, has joined the Board of the Company as an Independent Director.

Mr. Weech is an executive professional with a thirty-five-year record of leading and contributing to high-achieving organizations delivering superior results in a variety of diverse leadership, financial, and operating roles in public and private businesses. He has extensive experience in leading and building businesses, developing people, raising capital, strategic planning, business development, joint venture structuring and risk management. Before his retirement in 2022, Mr. Weech spent 2014 through July 2022 responsible for leading the Berkshire Hathaway Energy subsidiaries, BHE Investments and BHE Renewables, through significant asset and financial growth that included developing and evaluating lithium extraction opportunities. Mr. Weech holds the CA, CPA, CFA professional designations and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce with Distinction from the University of Alberta.

Mr. Weech commented: “I am excited to join the Surge Board of Directors and contribute to the successful development of a world class lithium critical mineral opportunity.”

In connection with the appointment of Mr. Weech to the Company’s Board of Directors, the Company has received the resignation of Mr. Ted O’Connor. The Company wishes to thank Mr. O’Connor for his contribution as a director and wishes him well in his future endeavors.

About Surge Battery Metals Inc.

Surge Battery Metals Inc., a Canadian-based mineral exploration company, is at the forefront of securing the supply of domestic lithium through its active engagement in the Nevada North Lithium Project. The project focuses on development of high-grade lithium energy metals in Nevada, USA, a crucial element for powering battery electric storage and electric vehicles. With a primary listing on the TSX Venture Exchange in Canada and a listing on the OTCQX Market in the USA, Surge Battery Metals Inc. is strategically positioned as a key player in advancing lithium exploration.

About Evolution Mining Limited

Evolution Mining is a leading, globally relevant gold miner. Evolution operates six mines, comprising five wholly-owned mines – Cowal in New South Wales, Ernest Henry and Mt Rawdon in Queensland, Mungari in Western Australia, and Red Lake in Ontario, Canada, and an 80% share in Northparkes in New South Wales.

About Nevada North Lithium LLC

Nevada North Lithium LLC owns the Nevada North Lithium Project southeast of Jackpot, Nevada about 73 km north-northeast of Wells, Elko County. The first three rounds of drilling at the project identified a strongly mineralized zone of lithium bearing clays occupying a strike length of more than 4,300 meters and a known width of greater than 1,500 meters. Highly anomalous soil values and geophysical surveys suggest there is potential for the clay horizons to be much greater in extent. The Nevada North Lithium Project has a pit-constrained Inferred Resource containing an estimated 11.24 Mt of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE) grading 3010 ppm Li at a 1,250-ppm cutoff. The recently completed PEA for the project reported an after-tax NPV8% US $9.17 Billion and after-tax IRR of 22.8% at $24,000/t LCE and an OPEX of US $5,243/t LCE.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

“Greg Reimer”

Greg Reimer, Director, President & CEO

DISCLAIMER

New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com (“We” or “Us”) are not securities dealers or brokers, investment advisers, or financial advisers, and you should not rely on the information herein as investment advice. Surge Battery Metals Inc. (“Company”) made a one-time payment of $50,000 to provide marketing services for a term of two months. None of the owners, members, directors, or employees of New Era Publishing Inc. and/or CarbonCredits.com currently hold, or have any beneficial ownership in, any shares, stocks, or options of the companies mentioned.

This article is informational only and is solely for use by prospective investors in determining whether to seek additional information. It does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Examples that we provide of share price increases pertaining to a particular issuer from one referenced date to another represent arbitrarily chosen time periods and are no indication whatsoever of future stock prices for that issuer and are of no predictive value.

Our stock profiles are intended to highlight certain companies for your further investigation; they are not stock recommendations or an offer or sale of the referenced securities. The securities issued by the companies we profile should be considered high-risk; if you do invest despite these warnings, you may lose your entire investment. Please do your own research before investing, including reviewing the companies’ SEDAR+ and SEC filings, press releases, and risk disclosures.

It is our policy that the information contained in this profile was provided by the company, extracted from SEDAR+ and SEC filings, company websites, and other publicly available sources. We believe the sources and information are accurate and reliable but we cannot guarantee them.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT AND FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “plan,” and similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations of management; however, it is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated.

These factors include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company’s exploration and development plans, the potential of its mineral projects, financing activities, regulatory approvals, market conditions, and future objectives. Forward-looking information involves numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, market volatility, the state of financial markets for the Company’s securities, fluctuations in commodity prices, operational challenges, and changes in business plans.

Forward-looking information is based on several key expectations and assumptions, including, without limitation, that the Company will continue with its stated business objectives and will be able to raise additional capital as required. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended.

There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Additional information about risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024, copies of which are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The forward-looking information contained herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances except as may be required by applicable law.

The post Surge Announces Former Berkshire Hathaway Energy Executive Mr. Richard Weech Joins the Board as an Independent Director appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Nickel Demand for EVs Could Flip the 2030 Market Balance

March 16, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Disseminated on behalf of Alaska Energy Metals Corporation.

On the surface, the global nickel market looks comfortable. Supply appears ample. Prices remain under pressure. Inventories continue to climb. However, this apparent balance hides a deeper problem. The world’s nickel supply has become heavily concentrated in one country, creating long-term risks that today’s surplus does not fully reflect.

The S&P Global Nickel CBS January 2026 report makes this point clear. While Indonesia continues to push large volumes of nickel into the market, warning signs are emerging. Policy uncertainty, slowing demand, and swelling inventories now shape the near-term outlook. At the same time, today’s oversupply is quietly setting the stage for future instability.

The Nickel Market is in Surplus, But Not in Balance

At first glance, the nickel market seems well supplied. S&P Global projects a 156,000-tonne surplus in 2026, even after Indonesia announced sharp cuts to its nickel ore quotas. This surplus explains why prices struggle to move higher, despite occasional rallies.

However, the quota cuts have not reduced output as much as expected. Indonesian smelters continue to run at high utilization rates. They rely on existing ore stockpiles and imports from the Philippines to keep production steady. As a result, global supply still runs ahead of demand.

This imbalance shows up clearly in inventories. LME nickel stocks climbed to 275,634 tonnes in January 2026, marking the largest inflows since 2019. Rising inventories signal that excess nickel has nowhere to go. Even Class 1 nickel remains widely available, keeping prices capped.

Weak Nickel Demand Keeps the Surplus Alive

Strong supply alone does not explain the surplus. Weak demand plays an equally important role.

S&P Global further analysed that in late 2025, manufacturing activity slowed across key regions. U.S. and Eurozone PMIs fell into contraction, weighed down by trade tariffs introduced under President Trump. These tariffs raised costs and disrupted supply chains, hurting industrial activity. At the same time, consumer confidence weakened, reducing demand for stainless steel and other nickel-intensive products.

China offered some support, but not enough to change the overall picture. Its PMI showed mild expansion, backed by measures in the 2026–2030 Five-Year Plan aimed at stabilizing the property sector. Even so, stainless steel production remains oversupplied, and EV battery makers continue to adjust designs to use less nickel.

As a result, near-term nickel demand growth stays muted. Despite this, speculative investors remain optimistic. Net long positions have stayed elevated for seven months, reflecting bets that supply disruptions will eventually outweigh weak fundamentals.

Is Oversupply More Than a Price Problem?

Oversupply does more than suppress prices. It distorts market balance.

When supply consistently exceeds demand, prices lose their ability to send clear signals. Even meaningful policy actions, such as Indonesia’s quota cuts, fail to trigger lasting price increases. The market simply absorbs the news and moves on.

At the same time, oversupply discourages investment outside low-cost regions. Higher-cost producers struggle to survive. In Australia, several operations have already cut output due to poor margins. These curtailments reduce supply diversity without tightening the market.

As a result, the world becomes more dependent on Indonesian nickel. While this keeps prices low today, it increases vulnerability tomorrow.

Nickel supply nickel price — Data source: S&P Global

ALSO SEE: Nickel Prices Hit $18,000 in 2026 Amid Global Oversupply, US Boosts Domestic Supply Chain

2030s Set to Flip the Nickel Market Balance

According to S&P Global, today’s surplus will not last forever.

The report projects that global nickel stocks will peak around 2028. After that, inventories begin to fall as demand improves and supply growth slows. By the early 2030s, the market balance flips.

By 2031, S&P Global expects the primary nickel balance to turn negative. EV battery demand accelerates as electrification expands. Stainless steel consumption recovers alongside global manufacturing. Meanwhile, Indonesian supply growth slows as easy expansions run out and regulatory risks increase.

Once inventories drop below comfortable weeks-of-consumption levels, prices respond quickly. S&P Global points to nickel prices rising toward $25,000 per tonne or higher, especially for Class 1 material.

Non-Indonesian Projects Hold the Key to Future Balance

As we understand now, oversupply is reshaping how the market thinks about security. During surplus periods, buyers focus on price. Origin matters less. Reliability takes a back seat. However, as balance tightens, priorities shift. A stable, politically secure supply becomes critical.

This is when non-Indonesian projects regain importance. Oversupply may delay their development, but it also ensures that fewer alternatives exist when demand rebounds. As a result, high-quality projects outside Indonesia gain strategic value.

nickel Price Analysis Today

Global nickel prices sit at $17,429.65/Ton and ¥120,188/Ton in China, marking a 0.88% gain. Upward momentum is strongly supported by structural supply constraints after Indonesia slashed its nickel ore production quotas to a 270 million ton cap. Although escalating Middle Eastern tensions and a strengthening US dollar introduce macroeconomic headwinds, pricing remains protected by resilient demand from the EV battery and Chinese stainless steel sectors, offsetting pressure from elevated LME inventories.

AEMC’s Nikolai Project Stands Apart

This shifting market context brings Alaska Energy Metals Corp. (AEMC) into focus.

AEMC’s Eureka deposit, part of the Nikolai Nickel Project in Alaska, is now the largest known nickel resource in the United States. Importantly, the project is polymetallic. Alongside nickel, it hosts copper, cobalt, chromium, platinum, and palladium—materials critical to clean energy, infrastructure, and defense.

In March 2025, AEMC released an updated NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource estimate, prepared by Stantec Consulting Services. The update significantly expanded the project’s scale.

The estimate includes:

1.19 billion tonnes of Indicated resources, up 46%
2.09 billion tonnes of Inferred resources, up 133%
61 billion pounds of contained nickel in the Indicated category
9.38 billion pounds of nickel in the Inferred category

On a nickel-equivalent basis, the resource exceeds 29 billion pounds, placing it among the world’s largest undeveloped nickel assets.

Long-Life Supply with Strong Economics

Beyond size, the project’s quality strengthens its case.

The Eureka deposit features a low strip ratio of about 1.6:1, which supports lower operating costs. A higher-grade core sits near the surface, reducing early capital requirements. Mineralization remains consistent and continuous, extending in multiple directions with room for expansion.

Early metallurgical work suggests the ore should respond well to conventional processing, avoiding complex or risky technologies. Together, these factors support a long-life, stable supply source—something the U.S. currently lacks.

Why AEMC Fits the U.S. Strategy

The United States faces a widening gap between critical mineral demand and domestic supply. Nickel ranks near the top of that list, driven by EVs, grid infrastructure, and defense needs.

AEMC aligns closely with this strategy. The company is advancing permitting under the FAST-41 framework, plans to deliver a Preliminary Economic Assessment in Q1 2026, and continues hydrometallurgical testing to support future U.S.-based refining.

In a market dominated by Indonesian supply, AEMC offers diversification, security, and scale.

Today’s nickel surplus keeps prices low and inventories high. However, it also hides growing structural risks.

As oversupply fades and demand accelerates, the market will need new, reliable sources of nickel. Projects like AEMC’s Nikolai are not competing with today’s surplus—they are preparing for tomorrow’s shortage.

And when balance finally tightens, supply security may matter just as much as price.

Live Nickel Spot Price

Unit: USD/Tonne

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Big Oil’s Carbon Reality: Shell’s 1.1 Billion-Ton Footprint Shows the Scale of the Energy Transition

March 16, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Energy giant Shell reported around 1.1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions in 2025. Most of these emissions come from the use of the fuels the company sells, known as Scope 3 emissions.

Scope 3 emissions occur when customers burn oil, gas, and other fuels produced by energy companies. For Shell, these emissions dominate its carbon footprint.

The company’s operational emissions are much smaller. Shell recently reported about 50 million tons of Scope 1 emissions from its operations. It also noted around 8 million tons of Scope 2 emissions from purchased electricity.

Together, these numbers show the scale of emissions linked to global fossil fuel use. In comparison, the United Kingdom’s total emissions were about 480 million tons in 2024, less than half of Shell’s overall carbon footprint. This comparison highlights how emissions linked to energy supply chains can exceed those of entire countries.

Why Scope 3 Emissions Dominate Oil and Gas

Most emissions linked to oil and gas companies come from the fuels consumers burn. This explains why Scope 3 emissions are the largest part of Shell’s carbon footprint.

Shell’s reporting shows Scope 3 emissions of over 1 billion tons of CO₂ equivalent, far higher than emissions from its direct operations. As seen below, the oil major’s GHG emissions have been declining since 2018.

Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions come from Shell’s operations and purchased energy, based on the company’s sustainability reports. Scope 3 emissions represent the use of fuels sold by Shell. Scope 3 accounts for the vast majority, around 95% of the company’s carbon footprint.

About 78% of these emissions occur downstream, mainly when customers use gasoline, diesel, or natural gas. The rest come from upstream activities such as equipment manufacturing and fuel transport.

This pattern is common across the oil and gas industry. Energy companies produce fuels, but most emissions occur when the fuels are burned.

Because of this structure, reducing emissions in the energy sector requires changes across the whole system. These include cleaner fuels, new technologies, and changes in how energy is used.

Shell’s Net-Zero Targets and Climate Strategy

Shell says it aims to become a net-zero emissions energy company by 2050. To move toward this goal, the company has set several climate targets.

Shell net zero an 2025 progress — Source: Shell

One key target is to cut emissions from its operations (Scope 1 and 2) by 50% by 2030 compared with 2016 levels.

The oil giant has already made some progress on this goal. By 2024, the company had reduced operational emissions by about 30% compared with 2016.

Another metric Shell uses is Net Carbon Intensity (NCI). This measures emissions per unit of energy sold. In recent reporting, Shell’s NCI stood at 71 grams of CO₂ equivalent per megajoule, unchanged from the previous year.

The company plans to reduce this measure to net zero by 2050 as part of its transition strategy. However, intensity targets measure emissions relative to energy production. This means total emissions can remain stable if energy demand continues to grow.

Shell’s Offset Strategy: Retiring Millions with Certified Credits

In 2025, Shell retired 5.8 million carbon credits. Of these, 5.5 million were tied to its Net Carbon Intensity (NCI) efforts. This included 2.0 million linked to energy product sales. The company emphasizes careful sourcing and screening of credits.

shell carbon credit retirements 2025 — Source: Shell

Of the total retired, 59% were certified by Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), 22% by Gold Standard, 10% by the ACR program, and 9% via Climate Action Reserve.

Rising Energy Demand Keeps Fossil Fuels in Play

Global energy demand continues to rise. This affects emissions across the energy sector. According to the International Energy Agency, energy-related carbon dioxide emissions grew in many regions due to rising industrial activity and energy demand.

Emissions from natural gas increased by 2.5% in 2024, while coal emissions rose almost 1% in recent global energy data, per the IEA report.

Oil emissions also increased slightly as countries continued to rely on fossil fuels to meet economic growth and energy access needs. This demand helps explain why oil and gas companies still play a large role in global energy supply.

At the same time, the energy transition is accelerating. Governments and companies are investing in renewable power, electric vehicles, and cleaner fuels. These trends are reshaping the global energy system.

LNG and Carbon Capture in Shell’s Transition Plan

Shell continues to expand its liquefied natural gas business. The company expects global LNG demand to grow about 60% by 2040, driven by economic growth and industrial energy needs.

Natural gas produces fewer emissions than coal when burned. Because of this, some countries view LNG as a transitional fuel during the shift to cleaner energy systems.

Shell is also investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS). One major project is the Northern Lights carbon storage project in Norway, developed with industry partners. The facility aims to store at least 5 million tons of CO₂ per year once expanded.

SEE MORE: World’s First Commercial CCS Plant Owned by Shell, Equinor, and TotalEnergies Injects CO2 in North Sea

Carbon capture technology can help reduce emissions from industries that are difficult to electrify, such as heavy manufacturing and shipping. However, CCS projects remain limited in number compared with the scale of global emissions.

The Enormous Scale of the Global Energy Transition

The world’s energy system is changing quickly. But the scale of fossil fuel use remains large.

Energy companies like Shell supply fuels used across transportation, power generation, and heavy industry. This explains why emissions linked to these companies are so high.

At the same time, new technologies are reshaping the energy landscape. Renewable power, electric vehicles, hydrogen fuels, and carbon capture are expanding rapidly.

Shell itself notes that new technologies could cut the carbon intensity of the global energy system by half by 2050 if current trends continue. Still, hitting global climate targets will require faster progress.

What Shell’s Emissions Reveal About the Energy System

Shell’s reported 1.1 billion tons of CO₂ emissions in 2025 show the scale of the global energy challenge. The majority of these emissions come not from company operations, but from the fuels used by millions of consumers and industries worldwide.

Reducing emissions across this system will require major changes in energy production, infrastructure, and technology. Oil and gas companies remain central players in this transition. Their investments, technologies, and energy supply decisions will influence how quickly the global economy moves toward lower-carbon energy.

The next decades will determine whether the energy system can meet rising demand while also reducing emissions at the scale required to reach global climate goals.

READ MORE: Shell’s Initiative to Cut Methane in Rice Farming in the Philippines and Create Carbon Credits

The post Big Oil’s Carbon Reality: Shell’s 1.1 Billion-Ton Footprint Shows the Scale of the Energy Transition appeared first on Carbon Credits.

DOE Launches $500M Funding Drive to Strengthen U.S. Battery Supply Chains and Critical Minerals Processing

March 16, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a major funding initiative aimed at strengthening domestic battery supply chains and reducing reliance on foreign sources of critical minerals. The department introduced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) worth up to $500 million to expand U.S. capabilities in mineral processing, battery materials manufacturing, and recycling.

Significantly, these investments target industries such as grid storage, transportation, manufacturing, and national defense. At the same time, the initiative reflects growing concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities for minerals that power modern energy technologies.

According to Chris Wright, the United States has relied for too long on foreign suppliers to provide and process key materials used in battery manufacturing. Strengthening domestic supply chains, he explained, will help the country meet rising energy demand while maintaining economic and technological leadership.

Strengthening the Domestic Battery Supply Chain

The DOE’s new funding program focuses on boosting the United States’ ability to process, recycle, and manufacture battery materials domestically. Currently, many minerals used in advanced batteries are mined globally but processed overseas before reaching U.S. manufacturers.

This dependency creates supply risks and exposes the economy to geopolitical disruptions. As a result, the new funding program aims to build a more resilient supply chain across several stages of battery production. Explained in detail below:

Critical Mineral Processing

First, the program seeks to expand domestic processing of critical minerals. Many essential battery materials—including lithium, nickel, graphite, copper, and aluminum—require complex refining processes before they can be used in batteries. By investing in new processing facilities, the United States hopes to reduce reliance on foreign refining capacity and ensure a stable supply of materials for domestic industries.

Battery Recycling Technologies

Second, the initiative emphasizes recycling technologies. Recovering valuable metals from used batteries and manufacturing scrap can significantly reduce the need for new mining while improving supply security. Recycling also lowers environmental impacts by reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

SEE MORE: USA Rare Earth (USAR) Stock Soars After $3.1B Funding Boost for Mine-to-Magnet Buildout

Battery Manufacturing Capacity

Finally, the program aims to expand manufacturing capacity for battery materials and components within the United States. Increasing domestic production of battery precursors, cathode materials, and other key components will help support the entire North American battery supply chain.

The funding is supported by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated billions of dollars to strengthen energy infrastructure and domestic manufacturing across the country.

Battery Storage Becomes a Major U.S. Energy Technology

The urgency behind these investments reflects the rapid growth of battery storage across the United States. In recent years, battery systems have emerged as a critical technology for managing modern power grids.

In fact, batteries became the largest form of energy storage in the country in 2024, surpassing traditional pumped hydro storage for the first time. This shift marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the U.S. electricity system.

At the same time, the number of battery projects expanded rapidly. Nearly 1,000 storage projects were either operating or under development across the country. Many of these projects are located in California and Texas, where large-scale renewable energy installations require flexible storage solutions to stabilize the electricity supply.

One notable example is the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility, one of the largest battery installations in the United States. Located in California, the facility pairs a natural gas power plant with massive battery storage systems that can deliver electricity when demand peaks.

As renewable energy capacity continues to grow, battery storage will play an increasingly important role in maintaining grid reliability and balancing intermittent energy sources such as solar and wind.

EV Battery Manufacturing Market Continues to Grow

The electric vehicle industry is another major driver behind rising battery demand. As EV adoption accelerates globally, automakers and battery companies are investing heavily in new manufacturing facilities.

In the United States, the electric vehicle battery manufacturing market is projected to grow steadily over the coming years. Industry estimates suggest the market will reach approximately $17.94 billion in 2026, increasing from $16.36 billion in 2025.

Looking further ahead, the sector is expected to expand significantly. By 2031, the market could reach around $28.46 billion, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of nearly 9.7 percent.

Multiple factors fuel this growth. Federal incentives for clean energy technologies, rising consumer demand for electric vehicles, and large-scale investments in domestic manufacturing are all contributing to the expansion of the U.S. battery industry.

However, sustaining this growth will require reliable access to the minerals that power advanced batteries.

America’s Critical Mineral Supply Remains a Concern

To address supply risks, the U.S. Geological Survey expanded its official list of critical minerals in 2025. The updated list now includes 60 minerals, up from 50 identified in 2022.

Several new minerals were added due to their growing importance for the economy and national security. These additions include boron, copper, lead, metallurgical coal, phosphate, potash, rhenium, silicon, silver, and uranium.

Despite these efforts, the United States remains heavily dependent on imports for many critical minerals. As of 2024, the country relied entirely on foreign suppliers for twelve critical minerals. Meanwhile, more than half of the domestic demand for twenty-nine minerals came from imports.

Rare earth elements represent one of the most significant vulnerabilities because global supply chains remain highly concentrated. China continues to dominate the production and processing of these materials, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions.

As a result, U.S. policymakers are increasingly focused on strengthening domestic mining, processing, and recycling capabilities.

Global Demand for Energy Minerals Is Rising Fast

The push to secure mineral supply chains also reflects rapidly growing global demand for energy materials. According to the IEA, demand for key minerals used in clean energy technologies is expected to increase dramatically in the coming decades.

Lithium demand, for example, could grow fivefold by 2040 under current policy scenarios. Copper will likely remain the largest mineral market by value, while other materials such as nickel, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements will also see strong growth.

Overall, the combined market value for six key energy minerals—copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, and rare earth elements—could reach approximately $500 billion by 2040. This surge reflects the rapid expansion of electric vehicles, renewable power systems, battery storage, and other clean energy technologies.

Consequently, governments around the world are competing to secure reliable access to these strategic resources.

Against this backdrop, the DOE’s $500 million funding initiative represents an important step toward strengthening America’s position in the global battery economy. By expanding domestic processing, recycling, and manufacturing capacity, the United States aims to reduce supply risks while supporting the technologies that will power the future energy system.

READ MORE: Unlocking the Power of Critical Minerals with US DOE’s $45 Million Investment: A Focus on Antimony

The post DOE Launches $500M Funding Drive to Strengthen U.S. Battery Supply Chains and Critical Minerals Processing appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Lithium Prices Climb Again in 2026, Sending Stocks Skyward

March 16, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Disseminated on behalf of Surge Battery Metals Inc.

The lithium market is experiencing a major rebound due to rising demand and tightening supply. Battery-grade lithium carbonate spot prices have jumped to about $24,086 per metric ton, based on data from Shanghai Metals Market (SMM). This marks a sharp increase from earlier lows in 2025, after a period of oversupply had weighed on the market.

What Causes Lithium Prices to Rebound

Several factors are behind the lithium price surge. First, the growth in stationary energy storage systems has been rapid. In 2025, demand for lithium in storage applications jumped about 71%, and analysts expect another 55% growth in 2026. As more utilities, data centers, and industrial players adopt battery storage, lithium demand continues to expand beyond just electric vehicles (EVs).

Second, China’s battery manufacturing sector is ramping up production to meet both domestic and global demand. Policy support for clean energy and EV adoption has helped absorb excess lithium that previously contributed to oversupply.

Meanwhile, regions like Europe and North America are boosting support for EVs and energy storage. European demand for batteries could reach 1 terawatt-hour by 2030. At the same time, U.S. incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act have already led to hundreds of new battery projects. These programs are driving additional lithium demand, putting further pressure on an already tight supply.

Third, supply constraints are becoming a concern. Forecasts for 2026 suggest a shift from surplus to a potential supply deficit of 22,000 to 80,000 metric tons, depending on how quickly new projects come online. This deficit is boosting hope among producers and investors. Prices might stay high if demand keeps outstripping supply.

Lithium’s Double Boost: AI + Data Center Batteries

Additional factors include rising interest in AI and data center batteries, which require large amounts of high-quality lithium. Emerging markets are generating new demand for battery-grade lithium. This adds to the existing need for electric vehicles. Coupled with a limited number of major lithium producers and delays in bringing new projects online, the market has become increasingly tight.

Other factors driving lithium prices up are the fast-growing need for batteries in AI data centers and energy storage systems. The global lithium-ion battery market for data centers was around $5.2 billion in 2024, per Prsedence Research. It is set to grow to nearly $17.7 billion by 2034, most of which will come from lithium batteries.

Lithium battery shipments for data center energy storage might rise over 80% in the next five years. Operators are expanding systems to support AI workloads that need steady power and load balancing. This surge in demand from new markets adds to the traditional battery needs of electric vehicles.

SEE MORE: The U.S. EV Supply Chain Race: Where Surge Battery Metals Fits in the National Critical Minerals Strategy

In short, the surge in lithium prices reflects a perfect storm of strong demand, constrained supply, and supportive policies. Investors and companies are taking note, as this environment signals higher revenues for producers. It also creates more opportunities for juniors to develop high-grade resources.

Surge Battery Metals Step Into the Spotlight

Surge Battery Metals (TSX-V: NILI | OTCQX: NILIF) is one such company advancing its position in the lithium supply chain. Surge focuses on the Nevada North Lithium Project (NNLP), which hosts the highest-grade lithium clay resource in the United States. It has a mineral resource estimate of 11.24 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) grading 3,010 ppm lithium at a 1,250 ppm cutoff.

The company has also seen strong investor interest in recent trading. In early 2026, its stock rose about 35%, and over the past month, it gained nearly 46%. This rally reflects the overall optimism in the lithium market. It also matches the strong gains of major producers like Albemarle. The increase shows growing confidence in NILI’s high-grade Nevada project and its potential role in meeting rising lithium demand.

In early January 2026, Surge announced a key executive hire to strengthen its commercial leadership. The company appointed Steffen Ball as Vice President of Commercial Development for Nevada North Lithium LLC, the joint venture between Surge and Evolution Mining. Mr. Ball brings senior experience from major automakers’ battery material sourcing teams, including roles at Nissan North America and Ford.

This appointment signals Surge’s focus on preparing the project for eventual production and strategic partnerships. It also shows the company’s plan to create a team with strong industry knowledge and connections in the lithium value chain.

Alongside personnel moves, Surge has attracted increased investment from institutional groups. The Quaternary Group, for example, increased its ownership in Surge by buying shares on the open market. Now, it holds about 7.8% of the company on an undiluted basis.

Nevada North: High-Grade, High Stakes

Surge Battery Metals stands out among junior lithium miners. Its main asset, the Nevada North Lithium Project, sits in a well-established U.S. mining region with strong infrastructure.

Early exploration shows lithium clay grades up to 7,630 ppm, with updated drill intercepts as high as 8,070 ppm, considered high for clay-based deposits. A Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) shows an after-tax NPV of US$9.2 billion. It also has an IRR of 22.8% when lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) is priced at US$24,000 per tonne.

The project could produce an average of 86,300 tonnes of LCE annually, peaking at 109,100 tonnes in Year 6. Operating costs are estimated at US$5,243 per tonne of LCE, giving Surge a competitive edge.

The project is now progressing toward a Pre-Feasibility Study targeted for completion in late 2026, led by global engineering firm Fluor Corporation.

Surge is expanding its resource base through drilling across several kilometers of strike. The company recently reported additional strong drill results from Nevada North. It announced a 30.6-meter intercept grading 4,196 ppm lithium from surface in a 640-meter step-out hole to the southeast.

In infill drilling, Surge also reported 116 meters averaging 3,752 ppm lithium, including 32.1 meters grading 4,521 ppm near surface, highlighting a strong high-grade core within the deposit. These results confirm that high-grade lithium extends beyond the current resource area.

The wide step-out distance also shows strong potential for further expansion. Consistent high grades near the surface can support future resource growth and strengthen the project’s development outlook.

Moreover, Nevada’s mining-friendly environment, with access to roads, power, and skilled labor, reduces development risk. Strategic hires with experience in battery supply chains signal the company’s readiness to move toward production and partnerships.

High-grade resources, strong economics, and a strategic location put Surge in a great spot in the growing lithium market.

From Clay to Clean Energy

The recent rise in lithium prices shows how supply and demand dynamics are shifting. As energy storage and electric vehicles expand, major companies are boosting their market positions. Higher lithium prices support stronger revenue forecasts and have led analysts to raise price targets on key stocks.

At the same time, projects further upstream, including junior developers like Surge, are gaining strategic significance. Investments in early-stage lithium resources help diversify supply beyond dominant producers and geographies. Surge’s focus on commercial leadership and resource development reflects how smaller companies can play a role in meeting future demand.

If lithium prices keep rising and demand stays strong, both current producers and new developers could gain. For mining giants, this could mean the expansion of production capacity and stronger earnings. For Surge and similar companies, it could support project financing and advancement toward commercial output.

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The Top Carbon Credit Exchanges Driving Climate Markets in 2026 and Beyond

March 16, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Carbon markets continue to grow as countries and companies work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many firms now set net-zero targets. To reach those goals, they must cut emissions and offset the emissions they cannot eliminate. Carbon credit exchanges play an important role in this process by providing platforms where verified carbon credits are bought and sold.

Each carbon credit represents one metric ton of carbon dioxide removed or avoided through climate projects such as reforestation, renewable energy, or methane capture. Carbon exchanges help the credit markets work. These platforms support price discovery, market liquidity, and transparent trading.

This article explores the top carbon credit exchanges shaping the market in 2026: Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), Xpansiv, AirCarbon Exchange (ACX), and ESGCX. They span global compliance markets, voluntary carbon credit venues, and next-generation digital marketplaces.

Carbon Credits and Market Trends Shaping 2026

The carbon credit market has expanded quickly in recent years. Governments have introduced carbon pricing programs, while many corporations now use carbon credits as part of their climate strategies.

The global carbon market hit around $783 billion in 2024 and exceeded $1 trillion in 2025. This growth shows strong demand from corporate climate programs and government policies.

Voluntary carbon markets (VCMs) also continue to grow. The sector reached over $2 billion in traded value in 2024. Forecasts suggest strong growth ahead. The VCM could exceed $10 billion by 2030.

Several trends are shaping this market:

Corporate climate commitments. More companies now include carbon credits in their climate strategies. Studies suggest that over 60% of sustainability-focused companies plan to increase their use of carbon offsets.
Nature-based climate projects. Forestry and land-use projects remain major sources of credits. Forestry projects account for about 41% of the carbon credit supply, while renewable energy projects represent roughly 32%.
Demand for high-quality credits. Many buyers now seek projects with strong verification and measurable impact. Around 44% of buyers prefer high-quality certified credits with stronger transparency standards.
Digital technology in carbon markets. New platforms use digital tools and data systems to track carbon reductions. About 41% of market participants are adopting digital monitoring and verification systems.

VCM demand forecast 2050 — Note: Conservative estimates of VCM demand; Source: McKinsey & Company voluntary carbon market forecast

As the market grows, trading infrastructure also becomes more important. Carbon exchanges provide the platforms that allow buyers and sellers to transact efficiently.

How Carbon Exchanges Support Climate Markets

Carbon exchanges create structured marketplaces for environmental assets. They connect buyers and sellers and provide transparent trading systems. These exchanges typically support two main types of markets.

Compliance carbon markets: Governments create these markets through emissions trading systems. Companies must hold carbon allowances equal to their emissions. The European Union Emissions Trading System is the largest example.
Voluntary carbon markets: Companies buy carbon credits voluntarily to offset emissions. These credits usually come from climate projects such as forest protection or renewable energy development.

Exchanges support both markets by providing tools for trading and price discovery. Some exchanges focus on derivatives and futures contracts. Others focus on spot trading of voluntary credits.

Reliable trading platforms also help reduce risk. They improve transparency by publishing prices and trading data. Several exchanges now play a major role in these global markets, and we’re breaking down each one of them so you’ll know your best pick.

READ MORE: The Carbon Credit Market in 2025 is A Turning Point: What Comes Next for 2026 and Beyond?

Intercontinental Exchange (ICE): The Global Benchmark for Carbon Derivatives

The Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) operates one of the largest environmental derivatives markets in the world. It focuses mainly on compliance, carbon markets, and emissions allowance trading.

ICE global market coverage — Source: ICE

ICE hosts futures and options contracts tied to several carbon pricing systems. These include European Union Allowances (EUAs), which serve as a global benchmark for carbon pricing. The exchange has recorded strong trading activity in recent years.

In 2025, ICE environmental markets saw a record of 20.9 million environmental futures and options contracts. This was a 4% rise from the previous record year.

ICE Environmental Contracts Traded 2025 — Source: ICE

The trading volume exceeded $1 trillion in notional value. This trend marks five years of trillion-dollar environmental trading on the platform. The exchange also reported $117 billion worth of physically delivered carbon allowances in 2025.

ICE supports several major environmental products:

EU Carbon Allowance (EUA) futures
UK Carbon Allowance futures
California Carbon Allowance contracts
Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) futures

North American environmental markets on ICE also reached record activity. In 2025, 6.2 million contracts were traded in these markets. This total included 4.2 million California Carbon Allowance contracts.

Because of its deep liquidity and strong participation, ICE remains a key platform for companies and financial institutions managing carbon price risk.

Xpansiv: Powering the Largest Spot Market for Carbon Credits

Xpansiv operates the CBL carbon exchange, a leading marketplace for voluntary carbon credits. The exchange focuses on spot trading of environmental commodities. These include carbon credits and renewable energy certificates.

Xpansiv has become a major infrastructure provider for voluntary carbon markets. Since 2020, the platform has facilitated transactions involving more than 330 million carbon credits and environmental certificates.

CBL provides a central order book system that helps improve price transparency. Buyers and sellers can trade standardized contracts that represent verified carbon credits.

The exchange also supports the Aviation Carbon Exchange (ACE), developed with the International Air Transport Association. ACE offers a marketplace for airlines to buy carbon credits that meet CORSIA requirements.

Since its launch, the platform has supported the trading of over 20 million tonnes of carbon credits used by airlines and other participants.

Xpansiv also connects to major carbon credit registries. These include Verra, the American Carbon Registry, Climate Action Reserve, and Gold Standard.

These integrations allow credits to move between registries and trading platforms. This improves liquidity and market access for project developers and buyers. As voluntary markets expand, platforms like Xpansiv play an important role in connecting carbon projects with global buyers.

SEE MORE on Xpansiv:
- From Tokyo to New York: Xpansiv Strengthens Global Role in Climate Data and Carbon Market Innovation
- Xpansiv and KRX Collaborate on Korean Carbon Credit Market Launch

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX): A Digital Marketplace for Global Carbon Trading

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) is a digital carbon credit exchange designed to simplify trading of environmental assets. The platform operates fully online and connects market participants across regions.

Members, over 190 globally, include corporations, traders, financial institutions, and project developers. The exchange has transacted over 21 MtCO2e (million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent).

ACX focuses on providing efficient digital infrastructure for environmental markets. Its trading system supports carbon credits and other environmental products. The exchange serves members from more than 30 countries, reflecting the growing global nature of carbon markets.

ACX also emphasizes transparent pricing and streamlined trading systems. Digital exchanges reduce barriers for companies that want to participate in carbon markets.

The platform has gained recognition from industry groups and environmental finance organizations for its trading technology and market structure. It has been voted as the Best Carbon Exchange for four consecutive years.

Digital exchanges such as ACX illustrate how technology is changing environmental markets. As more companies join the carbon economy, digital platforms may help scale global trading.

ESGCX: Integrity‑Focused Carbon Market Platform

ESGCX is a platform focused on carbon credit quality, transparency, and verification. It integrates project evaluation, digital monitoring, and trading readiness in one system.

In 2025, ESGCX launched the Carbon Credit Integrity Pilot Program (CCIPP). The program brings together project developers, investors, and verification partners. Participants get early access to ESGCX’s tools for digital MRV, credit ratings, and market readiness.

The exchange supports only premium carbon credits with third-party verification. This ensures buyers access high-quality credits with measurable climate impact.

The platform also uses digital tools and blockchain-friendly systems. These help improve transparency and simplify trading. Institutional buyers gain priority access to high-impact projects.

Market demand for high-integrity credits is rising. Corporate buyers committed over $10 billion to durable carbon removal in 2024–2025. ESGCX positions itself to meet this growing demand.

In short, ESGCX is building a transparent, verified, and reliable carbon market. Its focus on quality and digital verification makes it a strong platform for developers, investors, and buyers.

As VCMs mature, stronger integrity systems may become more important for buyers and regulators.

The Major Carbon Exchanges at a Glance

The exchanges discussed in this article operate in different parts of the carbon market. Here’s the summary of what they are and their market focus.

Each platform serves a different role within the global carbon economy.

Carbon Exchanges as the Backbone of Climate Markets

Carbon credit exchanges now serve as critical infrastructure for climate markets. They provide transparent pricing, enable trading, and connect climate projects with buyers. As carbon markets expand, exchanges will likely play an even larger role.

The carbon economy continues to evolve. Governments are expanding emissions trading systems, while companies increase investments in climate solutions.

At the same time, buyers are demanding stronger verification and higher-quality credits.

These trends are shaping the next phase of carbon markets. Exchanges such as ICE, Xpansiv, ACX, and ESGCX illustrate how trading platforms are adapting to support a rapidly growing global climate economy.

MUST READ: Top Carbon Credit Companies to Watch in 2026

The post The Top Carbon Credit Exchanges Driving Climate Markets in 2026 and Beyond appeared first on Carbon Credits.

CATL’s Profit Surges 42% With Global Battery Demand and the Shift to a Zero-Carbon Future

March 13, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) released its 2025 Annual Report on March 10, 2026. The report highlights strong financial growth, rapid global expansion, and continued innovation in battery technology. The company reinforced its position as the world’s largest battery manufacturer while advancing its vision of becoming a leading zero-carbon technology company.

The report explains how CATL is expanding beyond traditional battery markets. The company is applying its technology across electric vehicles, energy storage, aviation, shipping, and AI infrastructure. CATL refers to this strategy as “all-domain growth,” meaning the electrification of multiple industries through advanced battery systems.

CATL’s Strong Financial Performance Reflects Rising Battery Demand

In 2025, the company reported strong revenue growth, record battery shipments, and higher profits. At the same time, it expanded its manufacturing capacity, increased research spending, and advanced sustainability efforts to build a circular energy ecosystem.

Revenue reached RMB 423.7 billion, a 17% increase from the previous year.
Net profit rose to RMB 72.2 billion, growing 42% year on year

The company also generated strong operating cash flow. Net cash flow from operating activities reached RMB 133.2 billion, showing steady demand for its products and solid business performance.

Much of this growth came from the rapid expansion of electric vehicles and energy storage systems worldwide. Governments and companies continue to invest heavily in clean energy, which has increased demand for reliable battery technology.

Battery shipments played a key role in this growth. CATL sold 661 gigawatt-hours of lithium-ion batteries during the year, a 39% increase from 2024. This shows the company’s ability to scale production as global demand for batteries continues to rise.

Maintains Its Global Battery Leadership

According to data from SNE Research, the company held a 39.2% share of the global power battery market in the last year. Thereby, solidifying its leadership in the global battery market.

The company also expanded its international presence. Overseas market share reached 30%, and CATL batteries have now been installed in more than 24 million vehicles globally.

Energy storage has also become a major growth area for the company. Some notable milestones include:

Accounted for 30.4% of global energy storage battery shipments in 2025. This allowed the company to maintain the top global position in energy storage batteries for the fifth consecutive year.
Supported around 2,300 energy storage projects worldwide. At the same time, shipments from its energy storage system integration business grew by more than 160% compared with the previous year.

This growth reflects the increasing role of battery systems in balancing renewable energy grids and improving electricity reliability.

Furthermore, to meet growing global demand, the company expanded its manufacturing capacity to 772 GWh by the end of 2025, with 321 GWh under construction.

It operates advanced Lighthouse factories that use digital technology and automation to boost efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Global battery demand

New Battery Technologies Expand Product Portfolio

The company introduced several new battery technologies during 2025, reflecting its focus on innovation and product diversification. These include the second-generation batteries, such as:

Shenxing superfast charging
Shenxing Pro
Freevoy dual-power
Naxtra
Super Hybrid

These technologies aim to improve charging speed, increase reliability in extreme environments, and reduce dependence on critical raw materials.

Advancement of Sodium-ion Batteries

One important development is the advancement of sodium-ion batteries. These batteries offer an alternative to lithium-based technologies and can reduce reliance on limited mineral resources.

CATL expects sodium-ion batteries to see broader adoption beginning in 2026 across applications such as battery swapping systems, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and energy storage.

Sodium ion

Batteries Supporting AI Data Centers and Digital Infrastructure

Another emerging opportunity for CATL is energy infrastructure for artificial intelligence. Modern AI data centers require large and stable electricity supplies. Energy storage systems can help manage power consumption while improving efficiency.

CATL already provides storage solutions for SenseTime’s AI data center in Shanghai. The system helps optimize electricity usage and reduce operational costs.

According to the company, the storage system saves more than 10 million kilowatt-hours of electricity every year. It also lowers electricity costs by around 7% and prevents roughly 3,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.

This example shows how battery technology can play an important role in supporting the growing digital economy while also reducing emissions.

Expanding Electrification Into Aviation and Shipping

The company is expanding into aviation, maritime transport, and logistics as part of its broader electrification strategy.

In aviation, subsidiary AutoFlight completed the first public flight of the world’s largest five-ton electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This shows the potential of electric aircraft for city transport and logistics.

In shipping, its battery systems have been approved by major international maritime authorities, making them safe for use in commercial ships.

CATL batteries are already powering nearly 1,000 electric vessels worldwide. The company also launched a “Ship–Shore–Cloud” system that connects electric ships, port charging, and digital energy management to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

Research and Innovation Strengthen Technology Leadership

Research and development are a key part of CATL’s strategy. In 2025, the company spent RMB 22.1 billion on R&D, and over the past ten years, total investment exceeded RMB 90 billion.

CATL has six research centers and about 23,000 engineers and scientists, helping it create new battery technologies and improve existing ones. By the end of 2025, it held over 54,000 patents and ranked second among Chinese companies in international patent applications.

Moreover, the company uses artificial intelligence in research and manufacturing. For example, its next-generation lithium-ion battery project won the World Economic Forum’s MINDS award, showing how AI speeds up innovation.

ALSO SEE: CATL Stock Surges on JPMorgan Upgrade and China’s Energy Storage Boom

Building a Zero-Carbon Energy Ecosystem

CATL’s strategy goes beyond producing batteries. The company is working to create a complete zero-carbon energy ecosystem that integrates clean electricity, storage, and transportation.

Battery swapping is an important part of this strategy. CATL has built more than 1,000 Choco-Swap stations for passenger vehicles across 45 cities in China. These stations allow drivers to replace depleted batteries with fully charged ones in minutes.

The company also operates battery swapping infrastructure for heavy-duty trucks through its QIJI Energy network. This network includes more than 300 stations across 26 provinces and supports tens of thousands of kilometers of green logistics routes. In 2025, the combined network provided more than 1.15 million battery-swapping services.

CATL is also developing zero-carbon industrial parks and integrated renewable energy systems that combine power generation, storage, and electricity management.

One major project is located in Shandong province, where the company is building what it describes as the world’s first off-grid zero-carbon industrial park powered entirely by renewable electricity. The facility will supply green power to a lithium-ion battery plant with an annual capacity of 40 gigawatt-hours.

Advancing Circular Energy and Sustainability

Alongside business expansion, CATL continues to strengthen its sustainability commitments. In 2025, the company achieved an MSCI ESG rating of AA and was included in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook as well as the FTSE Emerging Index.

The company reported that its core operations reached carbon neutrality in 2025. At the same time, it is working to reduce emissions across its supply chain.

Battery recycling plays a key role in this effort. CATL recovered and processed 210,000 tonnes of used batteries during the year. From this recycling process, the company regenerated 24,000 tonnes of lithium salts, helping reduce the need for newly mined materials.

To support the development of a global circular battery economy, CATL also launched the Global Energy Circularity Commitment initiative.

Looking ahead, CATL plans to continue expanding its technology leadership and global partnerships. Growth is expected across electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, electrified transport, and digital infrastructure.

Through continued innovation, manufacturing expansion, and sustainability initiatives, CATL aims to strengthen its role in the global transition toward a zero-carbon energy system. The 2025 annual report shows that the company is not only leading the battery market but also shaping the future of clean energy worldwide.

READ MORE: CATL & CHANGAN Make History with World’s First Mass-Production Sodium-Ion Passenger EV

The post CATL’s Profit Surges 42% With Global Battery Demand and the Shift to a Zero-Carbon Future appeared first on Carbon Credits.

NASCAR’s Biofuel Revolution: How America’s Biggest Motorsport Is Hitting Full Throttle on Net Zero

March 13, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

For decades, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, aka NASCAR, stood for roaring engines, speed, and fierce competition. The sport, headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, built its reputation on powerful combustion engines and high-energy racing events across the United States.

However, the organization has recently shifted gears. Today, NASCAR is embracing sustainability and cleaner technology while still protecting the thrill of racing. The sport is working toward a bold target: net-zero operating emissions by 2035.

This goal forms the backbone of the NASCAR IMPACT strategy. The plan looks at emissions across the sport’s core activities—from race cars and racetrack facilities to large racing events. Instead of relying on a single solution, NASCAR is using multiple approaches, such as renewable energy, cleaner fuels, and improved waste management.

In short, the future of stock-car racing is becoming cleaner without losing its competitive edge.

NASCAR’s Net-Zero Mission

Back in 2023, NASCAR announced its commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions from its operations by 2035. In simple terms, the goal focuses on the fuel and electricity used at NASCAR-owned racetracks and offices.

To make this happen, the organization plans to reduce overall energy consumption while increasing the share of renewable power used across its operations.

The strategy focuses on three main areas:

Race cars
Racing events
Facilities and offices

Each of these areas produces emissions in different ways. For example, race cars consume fuel, while events require power generators and logistics fleets. Meanwhile, offices and racetracks use electricity, heating, and cooling systems. Therefore, NASCAR’s climate strategy combines efficiency improvements with cleaner energy solutions.

Here’s a snapshot of the motosport company’s 2024 electricity consumption and emisions profile:

Electric Innovation Hits the Track

One of the biggest steps toward cleaner racing arrived in July 2024. Through the ABB NASCAR Electrification Partnership, the sport introduced its first electric race car prototype.

The ABB NASCAR EV Prototype represents a new chapter in motorsports technology. Engineers from NASCAR built the vehicle with support from three major automakers, i.e., Chevrolet, Ford Motor Company, and Toyota.

The project shows how the racing world can experiment with emerging technologies. NASCAR does not plan to replace traditional engines overnight. Instead, the electric prototype works as a testing ground for future performance innovations.

Motorsports has always pushed automotive technology forward. Now, sustainability is becoming part of that engineering race.

A Major Biofuel Partnership with POET Changes the Game

Another major development came through NASCAR’s partnership with POET LLC, the world’s largest biofuel producer. The agreement named POET as the Official Bioethanol Partner of NASCAR. More importantly, the collaboration introduces zero-carbon bioethanol into the sport’s fuel mix.

NASCAR will blend this bioethanol with fuel supplied by its long-time partner Sunoco. As a result, the racing series will become the first major motorsport to use zero-carbon bioethanol fuel.

This change highlights a key idea behind NASCAR’s sustainability strategy: improving performance while cutting emissions.

Bioethanol already offers several advantages. It burns cleaner than conventional gasoline and produces lower carbon intensity. At the same time, it maintains the high-octane performance required for competitive racing.

For drivers and teams, fuel keeps engines running at full power. For the environment, it reduces pollution.

The partnership also brings strong visibility for the biofuel industry. Beginning this season, POET sponsors the “POET Restart Zone” at NASCAR-owned tracks—one of the most intense moments during races when cars restart after caution periods.

In addition, POET branding now appears on all NASCAR fuel cans alongside Sunoco. This move reinforces the growing role of renewable fuels in motorsports.

Cleaner Fuels for the Next Generation of Race Cars

NASCAR’s national racing series already uses Sunoco Green E15, a high-performance unleaded fuel blend. The fuel contains 15% bioethanol and 85% gasoline.

During the 2024 racing season, NASCAR consumed over 261,000 gallons of Sunoco Green E15 across its three national racing series.

While combustion engines will remain part of NASCAR’s identity, the organization plans to keep improving fuel technology over the next decade. And cleaner fuels are a practical step. They allow the sport to reduce emissions without requiring major changes to vehicle design.

Renewable Diesel in NASCAR’s Hauler Fleet

Behind every NASCAR race lies a massive logistics operation. The sport’s equipment travels thousands of miles each season in heavy transport trucks.

In 2024, NASCAR’s fleet of 17 Mack diesel haulers traveled more than 805,000 miles—roughly the distance of going to the moon and back.

Significantly, the company started testing renewable diesel fuel from wood residues, agricultural waste, and used cooking oil to reduce emissions from transportation

The fuel works in existing engines without modifications. That makes it a convenient way to cut emissions immediately while longer-term solutions develop. It also burns cleaner than traditional diesel, which helps lower the environmental footprint of NASCAR’s logistics operations.

ALSO CHECK: Ferrari’s Road to Glory: Massive €1.74 Billion Revenue Boom and Net Zero Goals Aligned

Powering Racetracks with Renewable Energy Credits

Beyond vehicles and events, NASCAR is also transforming the energy used at its facilities.

In 2023, the organization committed to powering all of its facilities with 100% renewable electricity for the next five years. To achieve this, NASCAR partnered with NextEra Energy.
The company purchased Green-e Certified Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from wind farms across the United States. These credits ensure that an equivalent amount of renewable electricity enters the national power grid. By buying these credits, NASCAR offsets the electricity used at its racetracks and offices.

However, the organization does not plan to rely on credits forever. In the long run, NASCAR hopes to install solar panels directly at its facilities, producing clean electricity on site and strengthening local renewable energy supply.

Reducing Energy Demand at Facilities

Using renewable power is important. But reducing overall energy demand matters just as much.

NASCAR has begun implementing energy-efficiency programs across its buildings and racetracks. These measures focus on cutting electricity consumption while lowering operating costs.

Another key area involves fugitive emissions. These are small gas leaks from equipment such as air conditioners and refrigeration systems. Although they may seem minor, some of these gases can be powerful greenhouse pollutants.

Therefore, NASCAR closely monitors these systems and works to prevent leaks whenever possible.

Cutting Emissions at Racing Events

Large racing events require significant energy. Power generators, logistics fleets, and track equipment all contribute to emissions.

Therefore, NASCAR has started analyzing energy use across its race operations. Data collection helps the organization understand where emissions are highest and where improvements can deliver the biggest impact.

One example involves track dryers. After heavy rain, NASCAR uses specialized machines to dry racetracks quickly so races can continue. Previously, these machines used jet fuel. However, NASCAR recently introduced the first propane-powered track dryer with help from partner Suburban Propane.

The change is expected to reduce emissions from these dryers by about 58%. It may seem like a small improvement, but these incremental changes add up over time.

Another example comes from the Chicago Street Race. By redesigning the layout of temporary power units, the event operations team managed to run multiple areas using a single hybrid generator.

As a result, the race reduced fuel consumption by more than 27% compared with the previous year.

Recycling and Waste Reduction Across the Sport

Sustainability efforts at NASCAR extend beyond energy and fuel. Waste management has become another major focus.

The organization now operates expanded recycling programs across its tracks and offices. These programs target a wide range of materials, including aluminum cans, plastic bottles, used racing tires, and motor oil.

NASCAR also partners with waste-management companies to divert materials from landfills and promote circular economy practices.

Even fans play a role. During race weekends, it encourages spectators to recycle and dispose of waste responsibly. These engagement campaigns help reduce the environmental footprint of large racing events.

The Future of Sustainable Motorsports

NASCAR remains one of the most recognizable motorsports organizations in the world. Traditionally, the sport has focused on stock-car racing events across the Southeast and Midwest United States.

Yet today, NASCAR is also becoming a testing ground for sustainability innovation. From electric prototypes and renewable fuels to cleaner logistics and renewable energy systems, the organization is experimenting with multiple solutions at once.

Importantly, these efforts prove that high performance and environmental responsibility can coexist. Motorsports has always pushed the limits of engineering. Now, the industry is beginning to push the limits of sustainability as well.

READ MORE: Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Expands Carbon Removal Portfolio to Accelerate Net Zero Push

The post NASCAR’s Biofuel Revolution: How America’s Biggest Motorsport Is Hitting Full Throttle on Net Zero appeared first on Carbon Credits.

South Korea Mandates ISSB-Aligned Climate Reporting by 2028 for Corporate Giants

March 13, 2026/in Uncategorized /by carbonfund

South Korea plans to require large companies to publish mandatory sustainability reports starting in 2028. The rule will apply first to major firms listed on the country’s main stock exchange.

Starting in 2028, KOSPI (the largest South Korean stocks) companies with at least 30 trillion won (around $22 billion) in assets will need to reveal their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

South Korea’s Sustainability Reporting Era Begins

The reporting requirement will expand in 2029 to companies with 10 trillion won or more in assets. The first phase will focus on about 58 of South Korea‘s largest listed companies. This is based on estimates from the Financial Services Commission (FSC).

Companies must publish clear details on climate risks, emissions, governance, and sustainability strategies. These disclosures will cover greenhouse gas emissions, climate financial risks, and plans to achieve climate goals.

The government says the policy will improve transparency for investors and strengthen confidence in Korea’s financial markets. It will also help the country align with global ESG reporting standards that investors increasingly expect.

South Korea has big industrial companies operating in electronics, cars, steel, and shipbuilding. These industries play a major role in global supply chains. Clear sustainability reporting could help these companies maintain access to international capital and markets.

A Gradual Rollout to Ease Corporate Burden

In 2026, South Korea’s Financial Services Commission released a roadmap for ESG disclosure. The policy forms part of the government’s broader strategy to support the country’s green transition.

Officials decided on a phased rollout to give companies enough time to prepare. Key elements of the plan include:

Mandatory ESG reporting for large KOSPI companies starting in 2028.
Expansion to additional companies in 2029.
Full adoption of supply-chain emissions reporting by 2031.

Companies will receive a three-year grace period before they must disclose Scope 3 emissions. These emissions include indirect emissions across a company’s value chain. These can come from suppliers, transportation, product use, and waste.

For many firms, Scope 3 emissions represent the largest share of total emissions. The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) states that Scope 3 emissions can be over 11 times greater than direct operational emissions for many companies.

Regulators gave companies more time to create systems for measuring these emissions due to the complexity involved.

Initially, the rules will operate through stock exchange disclosure requirements. Over time, the government plans to convert them into formal legal reporting obligations.

How Climate Finance Powers Korea’s Green Shift

The new reporting framework supports South Korea’s broader climate policy and energy transition. The government aims to raise about 790 trillion won (around $590 billion) by 2032.

The funding will support climate-related investments and help industries modernize and reduce emissions. Priority sectors include renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, green infrastructure, low-carbon manufacturing, and energy efficiency upgrades.

Heavy industries are a key focus of these efforts. South Korea is a top producer of steel, petrochemicals, and semiconductors, which need a lot of energy. The country generates 33% of its electricity from coal, per International Energy Agency data.

The IEA says South Korea was one of the top ten energy consumers in 2024. Industry made up a large part of the electricity demand. The government will introduce transition finance frameworks. These will help high-emission industries get funding for cleaner technologies.

South Korea has pledged to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. The country also aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40% below 2018 levels by 2030 under its updated climate plan. Stronger ESG reporting will help investors measure corporate progress toward these goals.

Why Mandatory ESG Reporting Is Going Global

South Korea’s policy reflects a global shift toward mandatory sustainability reporting. Governments and regulators increasingly require companies to disclose climate risks and emissions data. These rules show how climate change and energy policies can impact businesses.

The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is a major reporting framework. The rule will eventually apply to around 50,000 companies operating in Europe, according to the European Commission.

Global standards are also emerging. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) released two key disclosure standards in 2023:

IFRS S1, covering general sustainability disclosures
IFRS S2, covering climate-related disclosures

More than 20 jurisdictions representing over half of global GDP have announced plans to adopt or align with ISSB standards. South Korea’s reporting framework follows these international guidelines.

The country set up the Korea Sustainability Standards Board (KSSB). Its job is to create national reporting standards that match the ISSB framework.

Companies will be required to disclose:

climate risks and opportunities,
governance structures for sustainability oversight,
emissions data and reduction targets, and
strategy and risk management practices.

This alignment helps investors compare companies across different markets using similar data.

Korean Corporations Step Up Sustainability Disclosures

Corporate sustainability reporting has already expanded in South Korea. By 2024, about 203 Korean companies will publish voluntary sustainability reports. This comes from ESG research groups that track disclosure trends.

Large Korean firms have increasingly adopted global reporting frameworks such as:

Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD)
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)
Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB)

However, many companies asked regulators to delay mandatory reporting requirements. Businesses said they need more time to create reliable emissions measurement systems and reporting processes.

The government responded by pushing the start date to 2028. The extra time helps companies create internal ESG management systems and enhance data collection. Financial institutions strongly support stronger sustainability disclosure.

Investors increasingly use ESG data when evaluating risk and long-term performance. According to the Global Sustainable Investment Alliance, sustainable investment assets reached over $30 trillion globally in recent years. Analysts forecast it to reach $40 trillion by 2030.

Transparent ESG reporting helps companies attract capital from these investors. It also helps banks and asset managers assess climate risks across their portfolios.

The Future of ESG Disclosure in Asia

South Korea’s new rules could influence ESG reporting across Asia. Several financial centers in the region are strengthening climate reporting policies.

For instance, Japan plans to expand sustainability disclosure rules for major companies beginning around 2027. The country now requires climate risk disclosures for companies on its Prime Market. These disclosures must follow the TCFD framework.

Singapore and Hong Kong are both starting mandatory climate reporting that will follow ISSB standards. China is also expanding its climate disclosure rules to other major sectors.

SEE MORE: China Expands Carbon Reporting to Airlines and Heavy Industry in Major Climate Disclosure Shift

These developments reflect growing pressure from global investors. Many asset managers now need detailed climate data from companies. They use this information before deciding on investments.

Consistent reporting frameworks also help multinational companies operate across multiple markets. Large corporations often face different disclosure rules in different countries. Aligning with global standards can reduce compliance costs and improve transparency.

As more countries adopt ESG reporting rules, sustainability reporting may become as common as financial reporting.

Transparency as the New Standard in Global Markets

South Korea’s plan to introduce mandatory sustainability reporting in 2028 marks a major step in the country’s climate and financial policy. The phased rollout will start with the largest listed companies and later expand to more firms. Companies will need to disclose detailed data on emissions, climate risks, and sustainability strategies.

The policy aims to improve transparency for investors and align South Korea with global ESG reporting standards. As sustainability disclosure becomes more common worldwide, companies with strong climate strategies and clear reporting systems may gain an advantage in global capital markets.

READ MORE: U.S. Backs South Korea’s Uranium Enrichment and Nuclear-Powered Submarine Ambitions

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