United Airlines is taking a bold step toward cutting its carbon footprint by investing in Twelve, a California-based company that makes Power-to-Liquid (PtL) fuels. This move is part of United’s Sustainable Flight Fund, and it supports the airline’s goal of cutting aviation emissions by 90% by 2050. The fund is designed to back new ideas that can make air travel cleaner.

Turning CO2 into Jet Fuel: How Twelve’s Tech Works

Twelve has built a new way to make jet fuel that doesn’t rely on crops, waste oils, or fossil fuels. Their patented process takes carbon dioxide (CO2) captured from the air or factories and mixes it with renewable electricity (like solar or wind power). The result is a liquid fuel that works like regular jet fuel but with much lower emissions.

This carbon transformation method creates a closed-loop carbon cycle. That means the CO2 used to make the fuel is the same CO2 released when planes burn it — no extra carbon is added to the atmosphere. By closing this loop, Twelve’s process helps slow climate change and reduces the need to pump new fossil fuels from the ground.

It also fixes another problem. Many traditional types of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) use materials like used cooking oil, animal fats, or crops such as corn and sugarcane. These feedstocks are limited and can be hard to get in large amounts. They also raise ethical questions about using farmland for fuel instead of food.

Twelve’s technology skips these issues entirely, making it easier to grow the SAF supply in the long run.

United’s investment comes after Twelve raised $83 million in its recent Series C funding round. The company is also building its first commercial facility, called AirPlant™ One, in Moses Lake, Washington. The plant will start operating this year and will produce 50,000 gallons of sustainable aviation fuel each year.

Backing the Future: United’s Sustainable Flight Fund

United Airlines is serious about finding new ways to make flying greener. The airline launched the Sustainable Flight Fund in 2023, raising over $200 million so far. Partners in the fund include Air Canada, Boeing, JPMorgan Chase, and other major companies.

The goal of the fund is to help new SAF projects grow faster. By putting money into companies like Twelve, United hopes to build up the supply of cleaner fuels and cut emissions without relying heavily on buying carbon offsets.

United is also unique among U.S. airlines for its long-term SAF focus. The company has invested in over 5 different SAF developers, including Fulcrum BioEnergy and Cemvita Factory. With these moves, United aims to secure steady supplies of SAF for its future flights.

Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures, noted:

“Scaling the SAF industry is the major hurdle air travel needs to clear in order to increase the supply and reduce the price of lower carbon fuels. Twelve has differentiated themselves through the capital they have raised and the SAF contracts they have secured.”

• RELATED: United Airlines Launches $100 Million Investment Vehicle for SAF

Why SAF Is So Important (and Growing Fast)

The aviation industry is under pressure to cut emissions. Planes account for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions today, and demand for flights is still growing.

• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) says airlines used only 300 million liters of SAF in 2022, but demand could grow to 7 billion liters by 2030.

That’s a huge jump, showing just how important SAF is becoming. Some key facts to know about this jet fuel:

• Today, SAF makes up less than 1% of all jet fuel used globally.
  
• Experts think the SAF market could be worth over $15 billion by 2030.
  
• SAF can lower lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil jet fuel.
  

Annual SAF demand range over the main and accelerated cases compared with capacity potential, 2020-2026

Even though SAF is good for the planet, it still costs 3 to 5x more than regular jet fuel. That’s why government policies are helping. For example, the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offers tax credits for low-carbon fuels, making SAF cheaper to buy. The European Union also passed rules requiring airlines to use increasing amounts of SAF starting in 2025.

Many believe that as technology improves and more SAF is made, costs will drop to match regular fuel prices by the early 2030s.

How Twelve Fits into the Bigger Picture

Twelve is one of the few companies working on Power-to-Liquid (PtL) SAF, which uses only CO2 and clean energy instead of crops or oils. This means their fuel can be scaled up faster without competing for food or farmland.

In 2023, Twelve opened its first demonstration plant in Moses Lake, Washington, to show that the technology works. Their long-term plan is to build bigger facilities that can produce millions of gallons of PtL SAF each year.

The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized PtL as a promising option for deep decarbonization. Studies show PtL fuels could cut aviation emissions by up to 90%, depending on how clean the electricity source is.

For United, working with Twelve is more than just cutting emissions — it’s about staying ahead of competitors. Many airlines still depend on buying carbon offsets to meet their climate goals. United wants to lead with direct emission cuts, which experts say is a stronger, more reliable strategy.

• RELATED: Gevo Strikes Carbon Credit Agreement with Future Energy Global to Scale SAF Market

What Other Airlines Are Doing

United isn’t the only airline betting on SAF:

• Delta Air Lines partnered with Gevo to buy 385 million gallons of SAF over seven years.
  
• American Airlines signed a deal with Aemetis for 350 million gallons over 10 years.
  
• Lufthansa, KLM, and British Airways are also working with SAF producers like Neste and Velocys.
  

However, most of these deals are focused on SAF made from used cooking oil, fats, and biomass — not PtL. United’s early and large investment in Power-to-Liquid SAF sets it apart from airlines still relying mostly on crop-based or waste oil SAF.

What’s Next? A Greener Future for Aviation

The future of flight is changing fast. Analysts predict that investments like United’s could speed up a major shift in aviation. As governments around the world set stricter rules on emissions and offer more support for low-carbon technologies, SAF use is expected to soar.

If SAF production grows as hoped, airlines could shrink their carbon footprints by 40% to 70% in the next 20 years.

United’s investment in Twelve and other clean fuel companies shows it’s not just following the trend — it’s trying to shape the future of sustainable travel. The airline’s plan is to use a mix of SAF sources, from waste oils to PtL fuels, to make sure it can meet rising demand.

• READ MORE: Gevo and Axens Boost SAF with Innovative Ethanol-to-Jet Technology

The post United Airlines Invests in Twelve for Sustainable Aviation Fuel appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Disseminated on behalf of SolarBank Corporation

SolarBank Corporation (NASDAQ: SUUN; Cboe CA: SUNN; FSE: GY2) is growing its solar footprint in the U.S. It has signed a new deal with a California-based renowned real estate and infrastructure investor, CIM Group. This deal provides project-based funding of up to $100 million and will support solar projects with a combined capacity of 97 megawatts (MW) across the country.

Dr. Richard Lu, President and CEO of SolarBank, said,

“The financing is another major milestone in SolarBank’s plans to grow its status as an independent power producer. Assuming full funding, SolarBank will retain a majority ownership interest in what is expected to be 21 solar energy projects with a total capacity of 97 MW. The Transaction has been structured such that SolarBank does not have to issue any new shares, as the financing is being completed at the project company level.”

SolarBank’s Joint Venture Structure and Financing Details

CIM is a real estate and infrastructure firm focused on community development with ESG goals intact. Since 1994, it has invested over $60 billion to improve neighborhoods across the U.S. The company manages all stages of a project. From research and planning to daily operations and final sale.

Kyle Hatzes, Managing Director, Infrastructure & Impact Investments, CIM Group, further confirmed,

“CIM Group has a long history of developing and investing in essential infrastructure projects that seek to benefit communities and the environment. This transaction with SolarBank to grow its portfolio of solar projects underscores our ongoing commitment to the renewable energy sector and our focus on supporting innovative companies leading the energy transition across North America.”

The funding will be structured through a joint venture called “New HoldCo,” formed by CIM and Abundant Solar Power Inc. (ASP), a fully owned subsidiary of SolarBank.

Under the agreement, CIM will invest in non-convertible preferred equity in the newly created entity. Importantly, SolarBank is not issuing any shares or securities as part of this transaction.

New HoldCo is set to acquire project companies from ASP that collectively own 97 MW of solar capacity. The purchase will occur in two phases:

• 20% of the purchase price will be paid when a project reaches mechanical completion.
• The remaining 80% will be provided upon substantial completion.

Tax Credit Transfers and Financial Returns

Each solar project will earn Investment Tax Credits (ITCs). These credits will be sold to qualified buyers. These sales will follow Section 6418 of the Internal Revenue Code. Tax credit transfer agreements (TCTAs) will formalize these transactions. CIM will keep 100% of the revenue from these tax credit sales.

CIM will earn a 3% annual coupon on its investment. This payment is made twice a year. After this payment, the remaining cash flow from the projects will go to ASP.

SEE MORE: Latest Solar Price Chart 

Exit Strategy and Redemption Terms

New HoldCo can redeem CIM’s preferred equity 180 days after the fifth anniversary of the last project’s launch. The redemption value will be the higher of the fair market value or a set multiple of CIM’s initial investment.

Additionally, if New HoldCo decides not to redeem, CIM can request redemption at the lower value of the fair market price or the same investment multiple.

If a project is liquidated, damaged, or faces similar events, proceeds will be split according to the original contributions made by each party.

Challenges and Conditional Requirements

Despite the positive outlook, the deal comes with several risks. SolarBank must secure interconnection approvals, sign solar contracts, and obtain all required permits. The company also needs to secure third-party financing to keep the projects moving. Construction delays or cost overruns could pose further challenges.

Most importantly, if the government changes or removes solar incentives, the projects may no longer remain financially viable.

Moreover, the funding from CIM is subject to the signing of final agreements. If these aren’t finalized or key conditions fail, funds won’t be released. SolarBank also needs to secure capital for important construction milestones. The CIM funding comes only after achieving mechanical and substantial completion.

However, this deal with CIM Group shows great trust in SolarBank’s U.S. projects and growth plans. The $100 million financing will work if it gets regulatory approval. It also depends on construction moving forward and government policies supporting solar energy.

MUST READ:

• SolarBank’s $49.5M Qcells Deal Accelerates U.S. Solar Growth – Exclusive Interview with CEO Dr. Richard Lu
• SolarBank Taps Data Center Expert Jonathan Martone to Power Its Next Big Move 

Community Solar: Current Market Landscape and Growth Projections

As of June 2024, the United States has about 7.87 gigawatts (GW) of community solar capacity. This capacity is spread across 44 states and the District of Columbia.

In the third quarter of 2024, the community solar segment installed 291 megawatts direct current (MWdc). This is a 12% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth underscores the sector’s resilience and expanding appeal.

Solar Bank’s community solar achievements include: 

1.  7.2 MW North Main Community Solar Project in New York 
2. Expands Community Solar in New York with 14.4 MW Project
3. Commences its First 4.99 MW BESS Project in Ontario 

SolarBank: Opportunities Amid Tariff Hikes

With rising tariffs on solar products from Southeast Asia, U.S.-based companies like SolarBank Corporation could seize new opportunities. SolarBank, which focuses on solar energy, battery storage, and EV charging solutions, does not manufacture solar panels but imports them for its projects. Notably, the company does not source from the Southeast Asian nations affected by the new tariffs, minimizing immediate impact.

These tariffs are expected to drive up the cost of imported panels, potentially increasing demand for domestic solar products. SolarBank, with a strong U.S. presence, may benefit by sourcing panels locally. U.S. solar stocks have already seen a rise since the tariff announcement, strengthening the business case for companies like SolarBank, which can reduce supply chain risks by focusing on domestic production.

Regarding the recent tariffs, Dr. Richard Lu, President and CEO of SolarBank, commented:

“We continue to execute on our development pipeline of community solar projects. I also want to comment on the recent announcement of increased tariffs on south-east Asia solar cells and SolarBank’s plans to manage its supply chain.

SolarBank has not been importing solar panels from any of the four countries that are subject to the tariffs announced by the U.S. Department of Commerce on April 21, 2025. As a result its present operations are not affected by this announcement. In addition, SolarBank has been exploring sourcing solar panels from other jurisdictions such as the Middle East and North America, where (domestic assembled) solar panels are becoming cost competitive with the panels imported from Asia. SolarBank also has significant development opportunities in Canada where solar panels are not subject to the same tariffs. Finally, I am expecting that electricity costs will increase in response to these tariffs which will further mitigate the financial impact on projects.

Overall, SolarBank is well positioned to manage this risk.”

SolarBank’s growth strategy in North America positions the company to capitalize on emerging clean energy markets in both the U.S. and Canada. By focusing on regions with high demand for renewable energy infrastructure, SolarBank is strategically aligning its operations to meet the growing need for community solar, energy storage, and sustainable energy solutions. This approach not only strengthens its market presence but also ensures the company is well-positioned to benefit from the ongoing transition toward green energy.

This report contains forward-looking information. Please refer to the SolarBank press release entitled “US$100 Million Transformative, Project Financing Announced by SolarBank and CIM Group to Fund 97 MW of Renewable Energy Assets in the United States” for details of the information, risks and assumptions.

Disclosure: Owners, members, directors, and employees of carboncredits.com have/may have stock or option positions in any of the companies mentioned: None.

Carboncredits.com receives compensation for this publication and has a business relationship with any company whose stock(s) is/are mentioned in this article.

Additional disclosure: This communication serves the sole purpose of adding value to the research process and is for information only. Please do your own due diligence. Every investment in securities mentioned in publications of carboncredits.com involves risks that could lead to a total loss of the invested capital.

Please read our Full RISKS and DISCLOSURE here.

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Removall, the France-based carbon project developer, and Sumitomo Corporation have launched a joint venture called Summit Removall. This venture will co-invest in high-quality, nature-based carbon credit projects globally. It combines Removall’s carbon project development skills with Sumitomo’s strong global presence, especially in Asia. Together, they aim to increase access to premium carbon credits and support climate goals.

This venture will fund and manage certified carbon projects that remove and reduce greenhouse gases. The two companies will also handle the sales of carbon credits to their customers. They will balance their efforts across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Yusuke Kinoshita, General Manager of Carbon Solution Business Unit at Sumitomo Corporation, added:

We are thrilled to collaborate with Removall on this significant venture, and we are genuinely excited about what we can achieve together. This partnership aligns perfectly with Sumitomo Corporation’s commitment to sustainability and our goal to contribute to nature-positive and our corporate message ”Enriching Lives and the
World”. By investing in high-quality carbon projects like Mozblue, we are not only supporting ecological restoration but also enhancing our capabilities to deliver impactful environmental solutions on a global scale. We deeply appreciate Removall’s expertise in carbon credits, which will enable us to make an even greater impact”.

Removall is a certified carbon project developer that helps companies and organizations meet their climate goals. They enable them to support, fund, or invest in high-quality carbon projects that deliver real environmental impact.

Flagship Investment: Africa’s Largest Mangrove Restoration Project

Summit Removall’s first big investment is MozBlue Phase 1. This project begins Africa’s largest mangrove restoration project in Mozambique. Developed by Blue Forest and Removall, it aims to restore 5,116 hectares of mangrove forests.

• MozBlue Phase 1 began operations in November 2024.

• It expects to generate about 2.5 million tons of blue carbon credits over 40 years.

• The project will use CCB and VCS VM0033 methods. This will help meet high environmental and social standards.

Mangroves are highly effective carbon sinks. They absorb more CO₂ than tropical forests. They also protect coastlines, support biodiversity, and improve local water quality.

• In an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Jérôme Beilin, CEO and Co-Founder of Removall, he has shared his valuable insights with CarbonCredits.com

CC:  What strategic goals do Removall and Sumitomo Corporation aim to achieve through the creation of Summit Removall?

Jérôme Beilin: Removall and Sumitomo Corporation both aspire to become key carbon markets players in the coming years.

Removall, as a project developer, investor, and carbon credit retailer working with premium corporate end-users, intends to grow its investing capacities thanks to Summit Removall, and develop its commercial presence in Asia.

Thanks to this joint venture, Removall will grow its existing portfolio of 6 projects through a portfolio of 15+ projects in the next couple of years.

Sumitomo Corporation is willing to enter the carbon markets with investments in top-quality, high-integrity, and rare blue carbon projects, as well as securing premium carbon credits for their customers across several industries.

The platform’s goal is to invest in multiple international projects that deliver significant medium- and long-term carbon removal from the atmosphere.

CC: Why was the MozBlue Project in Mozambique chosen as the first investment? 

Jérôme Beilin: MozBlue was chosen as the first investment for this Joint Venture between Removall and Sumitomo Corporation for several reasons:

First, this is the 1^st phase of the largest mangrove restoration initiative in Africa, with 5 200 hectares to be restored in the 1^st phase, but more than 40 000 hectares potential. And we are looking for mangrove restoration at scale.

Second, the project is led by Blue Forest. Blue Forest is a pioneering developer of community-led ecological mangrove restoration projects in Africa and around the world. The UAE-based company specializes in large-scale initiatives and aims to restore natural ecosystems while generating co-benefits for local communities and creating long-term value.

Indeed, the MozBlue project is developed by Removall together with Blue Forest and a very strong consortium of partners such as the Mozambican branch of Eden Reforestation (a US based NGO specialized in ecosystem restoration with a solid expertise on mangrove restoration), Silvestrum (a US based environmental consulting firm having developed the VCS mangrove methodology VM00033), Terra-Firma, and Avante, two Mozambican consulting firms experts in community-based approach and local communities engagement.

CC: What makes mangrove restoration a compelling climate solution?

Jérôme Beilin: Mangroves are among the world’s most effective carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. They absorb significantly more CO₂ than tropical forests, making them vital for climate change mitigation. Additionally, mangroves support biodiversity conservation and provide essential benefits to local communities.

Despite their importance, only a small fraction of the approximately 5,400 certified carbon credit projects worldwide focus on mangrove-related carbon sequestration with biodiversity co-benefits.

By investing in Mozambique’s MozBlue Project — the largest mangrove restoration initiative in Africa — Removall and Sumitomo Corporation are helping to expand the supply of rare blue carbon credits.

The MozBlue project will deliver such co-benefits. In addition to supporting the growing global market for decarbonization, these projects will also create employment opportunities for local communities involved in mangrove plantation, improve livelihoods, and contribute to nature-positive efforts such as providing habitats for living creatures and water purification.

CC: How will Summit Removall ensure the integrity and certification of the carbon credits generated from its projects?

Jérôme Beilin: The MozBlue Project is listed under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), using the most recent methodology for Blue Carbon Project: the VM0033 (Methodology for Tidal Wetland and Seagrass Restoration v2.1).

As the program shows incredible biodiversity and social impacts, the MozBlue Project will be double certified through an additional CCB certification (Climate, Community and Biodiversity).

This dual certification will establish the project as environmentally and socially responsible, providing transparency and accountability in reporting.

The quality of the project has been thoroughly studied by our expert team and through our risk management process.

Best-in-Class MRV methodology procedures (including remote sensing and field surveys) will be followed and will also be completed through regular field visits by our team. Regarding additionality, the project is developed in a Least Developed Country.

As for the carbon potential of the project, we use very conservative estimations to calculate the carbon credit emissions, including conservative assumptions on the project baseline. The project carbon curve and baselines, as well as the PDD, are done by the world best carbon expert for Blue Carbon projects. Moreover, Blue Forest is taking a very conservative approach on carbon calculations sheets which strengthen the project robustness.

CC: How will local communities in Mozambique benefit from the MozBlue Phase 1 project in terms of employment and ecosystem services?

Jérôme Beilin: In addition to its decisive environmental impact, the first phase of the project will create over 700 direct jobs and multiple indirect jobs, reaching over 50 local communities, representing more than people.

Through an innovative and ambitious benefit-sharing scheme, the project will also fund income-generating community activities such as the cultivation of alternative wood to mangroves, fishing, farming, livestock, and beekeeping.

CC: Looking ahead, what types of carbon removal projects and regions will Summit Removall prioritize for future investments?

Jérôme Beilin: Removall and Sumitomo Corporation are mainly looking for any Nature Based Solutions removal projects as of today. We can also evaluate carbon avoidance projects, especially on clean water access and clean cooking in emerging countries.

As we don’t have geographical restrictions, we are open to any geography. In fact, we are currently evaluating other investment opportunities in Africa, Asia, Latin and Central America.

Why Blue Carbon Projects Matter

Despite their benefits, mangrove restoration projects are rare in the carbon market. Of 5,400 certified carbon credit projects worldwide, only a few focus on mangroves. With increasing demand for blue carbon credits, which relate to ocean-based carbon removal, projects like MozBlue are essential.

By investing in this Mozambique initiative, Removall and Sumitomo Corporation are increasing the limited global supply of blue carbon credits. They are also:

• Creating local job opportunities

• Enhancing community livelihoods

• Supporting endangered species habitats

• Contributing to nature-positive climate action

• READ MORE: Taiwan Sets Massive Target of 700K-Ton Blue Carbon Reserve by 2030 

Scaling Nature-Based Solutions Globally

MozBlue is just the beginning of this climate initiative. Blue Forest aims to restore and protect up to 155,000 hectares of mangroves in Mozambique in the coming years. Future phases will plant native mangrove species. This will help climate and biodiversity in the long term.

Summit Removall, Removall, and Sumitomo Corporation will look for high-quality, nature-based carbon credit investments worldwide. This joint platform will focus on projects that make high-quality carbon removal credits. These credits will be sold to companies in Europe, Asia (like Japan), and the Americas.

Africa’s Growing Role in the Carbon Credit Market

In 2024, the global market produced about 290 million tons of carbon credits. Africa contributed 20%, or 59 million tons. By 2030, Africa could produce as much as 2.4 billion tons of carbon credits each year. This shows significant growth potential.

Thus, Removall and Sumitomo Corporation will work together in this growing market and tap every opportunity to boost the carbon credit market.

• KNOW MORE: Carbon Credits in 2024: What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond ($250B by 2050)

The post Removall and Sumitomo Team Up to Expand High-Quality Carbon Credits – EXCLUSIVE Interview with Removall CEO Jérôme Beilin Inside appeared first on Carbon Credits.

Microsoft has taken big steps toward reaching its climate goals. The company has agreed to buy up to 3 million nature-based carbon removal credits from EFM, a U.S.-based forest management firm. This multi-year deal shows Microsoft’s serious commitment to using natural ways to fight climate change.

On top of that, Microsoft has invested $300 million in EFM’s Fund IV. This funding will help climate-smart forestry projects in Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula.

Nature’s Power: How Forests Help Fight Climate Change

Nature-based solutions help remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air. They include:

• Planting new forests, 
• Improving forest management, and
• Agroforestry, which combines trees with farming

Microsoft plans to use these credits to meet its goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030. That means the company wants to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits.

EFM’s projects focus on reforestation, sustainable forestry, and land conservation. Studies show that forests can absorb about 30% of global CO₂ emissions every year. By working with EFM, Microsoft supports healthy ecosystems and helps restore damaged lands.

Some studies suggest that nature-based solutions could cut CO₂ by 12 gigatonnes yearly by 2030 if used widely. For Microsoft, these projects help balance emissions from hard-to-reduce activities. This includes data center operations and cloud services.

• RELATED: Microsoft’s $800M Carbon Removal Deal Sets Record in Climate Fight

Why Microsoft Invested $300 Million in EFM Fund IV

The $300 million investment by Microsoft is both an environmental and a business strategy. The carbon credit market is growing fast. According to the MSCI report, the market could grow to $7–35 billion, driven by:

• Rising demand for credible carbon removal credits,
• Corporate climate goals, and
• A shift toward higher-quality, transparent projects.

Companies are buying more credits to meet 2030 targets, boosting market trust. MSCI projects even greater growth by 2050, with the market potentially reaching $45–250 billion as interest in reliable, high-standard carbon credits continues to increase globally.

By investing in EFM’s fund, Microsoft supports sustainable forestry practices that store carbon, improve biodiversity, and create local jobs. EFM uses climate-smart forestry. This includes longer harvest cycles, planting many tree types, and protecting watersheds. These actions not only pull CO₂ out of the air but also make forests stronger against wildfires, pests, and climate stress.

• RELATED: Meta and EFM Join Forces to Deliver 676,000 Forest Carbon Credits by 2035

Microsoft has said that it will use returns from this fund to help cover future carbon removal costs. This makes its sustainability strategy more financially sustainable over the long term.

Beyond Carbon Credits: Microsoft’s Big Climate Picture

This deal with EFM fits into Microsoft’s larger climate plan. In 2020, the company pledged to be carbon negative by 2030 and to remove all the carbon it has emitted since its founding in 1975 by 2050. The company is also working to run on 100% renewable energy by 2025 and to reduce emissions from its supply chain.

The company is also developing advanced digital tools to measure and track carbon removal projects. Its Planetary Computer uses satellite images and artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor land changes and forest health, helping partners like EFM verify their impact.

Why Companies Are Turning to Nature-Based Solutions

More companies are investing in nature-based solutions. A 2023 BloombergNEF report says that emerging markets need over $1.5 trillion for clean energy and carbon removal by 2030. This investment is crucial to meet global climate goals. Carbon credits from nature projects are one piece of the puzzle.

In 2024, over 400 global companies, like Amazon and Google, said they would buy more high-quality carbon removal credits. These companies view nature-based solutions as a cost-effective way to achieve short-term climate goals. They also aim to reduce their direct emissions over time.

The World Bank says that if companies invest $800 billion in nature-based climate solutions by 2030, we could create more than 80 million jobs around the world. This would especially benefit rural areas. Projects like EFM’s can deliver climate benefits while supporting local communities.

The Carbon Credit Boom: What’s Next for Nature and Tech?

Experts believe that the carbon market will keep growing quickly.

• McKinsey & Company says that demand for carbon credits might grow 15x by 2030. This could reach 1.5 to 2 billion metric tonnes of CO₂ equivalent each year.

Microsoft’s partnership with EFM shows how companies can combine technology, finance, and nature to fight climate change. By using AI, remote sensing, and data analytics, projects like these can be tracked and improved over time, making them more reliable and transparent.

However, experts also warn that carbon removal credits are not a replacement for cutting emissions. Companies still need to reduce their pollution as much as possible before relying on carbon offsets. The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) stresses that offsets should only be used to balance emissions that cannot yet be eliminated.

Microsoft’s collaboration with EFM is an important example of how nature and technology can work together to tackle climate change. The purchase of up to 3 million carbon removal credits and the $300 million forestry investment show a strong commitment to both environmental restoration and economic growth.

These efforts help Microsoft get closer to its 2030 climate targets while setting an example for other companies. As the carbon removal market grows, partnerships like this will likely become more common. They offer a way to store carbon, support ecosystems, and create jobs — all key parts of building a sustainable future.

• READ MORE: Microsoft Leads as Carbon Removal Credits Hit 8 Million Tonnes in 2024

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