Share

UN body adopts human rights protections for carbon market mechanism

The move seeks to empower vulnerable communities and individuals
UN body adopts human rights protections for carbon market mechanism
The newly implemented measures enable individuals impacted by actions carried out within the framework to challenge decisions or lodge complaints

The United Nations (UN) Body tasked with establishing a fresh worldwide carbon market has taken a significant stride in fortifying the safeguarding of environmental and social human rights.

“This is a defining moment,” said Maria AlJishi, chair of the Supervisory Body. “With the introduction of the Appeals and Grievances Procedure, we’re establishing new avenues to empower vulnerable communities and individuals, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are upheld.”

Read more: Africa faces $277 billion annual climate adaptation funding shortfall, warns African Development Bank President

UN carbon market
Maria AlJishi (right), chair of the Article 6.4 Supervisory Body, and Martin Hession, vice chair, hold the text that was agreed, which introduces the Appeals and Grievances Procedure. (Photo Credit: UNFCCC)

These newly implemented measures further enable individuals impacted by actions carried out within the framework to challenge decisions or lodge complaints. Additionally, this represents a crucial advancement in the development of an international carbon market that establishes the standard for carbon credits of utmost integrity.

“I feel a sense of relief that after years of debate on appeals, we have finally delivered a robust system; one that holds us accountable for our decisions and ensures the activities we approve are responsible for their impacts,” added vice chair Martin Hession. “In a world where the rule of law and human rights are under threat, I’m not a little proud that we have played our small part in upholding these fundamental principles.”

Moreover, the initiation of the Appeals and Grievances Procedure has promptly taken effect, signifying a milestone in the operationalization of the Paris Agreement Crediting Mechanism.

For more news on sustainability, click here.

The stories on our website are intended for informational purposes only. Those with finance, investment, tax or legal content are not to be taken as financial advice or recommendation. Refer to our full disclaimer policy here.