NAIROBI, Kenya, June 17 – Carbon markets could release 1.5 to 2.5 gigatonnes of new emissions annually, fueling more pollution in Africa, a recent report by Power Shift Africa has revealed.
The report titled “Why Carbon Markets Are a Dangerous Distraction for Africa” shows that carbon markets lead to further carbon pollution, delay real climate solutions, enable corporate greenwashing, and burden Africa while allowing wealthy nations and industries to evade meaningful emission reductions.
Mohamed Adow, director and founder of Power Shift Africa (PSA), noted that the emissions are more than all of Africa’s current fossil fuel and agricultural emissions combined.
“Carbon markets are nothing more than a smokescreen for polluters. They allow corporations to keep burning fossil fuels while claiming climate responsibility through offset purchases. This does not reduce emissions but simply shifts the burden onto Africa,” stated Adow, Director of PSA.
The report argues that carbon markets, especially voluntary ones, act as “pollution permits” by allowing corporations to continue burning fossil fuels under the guise of environmental responsibility.
Adow advocated for increased public funding, debt cancellation, climate reparations, tax justice, and community-led adaptation projects, noting that these will ensure climate action solutions are implemented.
“We need direct public investment in clean energy, adaptation, and real emissions reduction strategies. The illusion that carbon markets reduce emissions is dangerous,” he said.
The report has been endorsed by 21 African organizations, including the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), Green Faith Africa, and the African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET).
Africa contributes a low percentage of total global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it is one of the most vulnerable continents to the harsh effects of climate change, including severe drought, flooding, and loss of biodiversity.
