Carbon Markets

Similar to the concepts of wetland and stream mitigation credits, carbon markets provide industries and large organizations with an opportunity to purchase “credits” from private landowners or other land managers who have implemented practices specifically designed to sequester carbon. Recognizing the significant potential for our forests, grasslands, wetlands, and working lands to sequester and store atmospheric carbon dioxide, carbon markets can incentivize landowners to enact and maintain sustainable management practices while offsetting carbon emissions generated by the organization purchasing the credit. 

If done thoughtfully, this can provide quality wildlife habitat and other environmental benefits; sequester significant amounts of atmospheric carbon; and generate revenue for the landowner implementing appropriate conservation practices. Given the increased interest in private sector solutions to address the effects of climate change, the efficacy of carbon markets that facilitate active management practices should be further evaluated.  ​