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A focus on climate action: Sustainable Development Goal 13 claims in the VCM

  • Akina Wong
    Research Associate, Beyond Carbon
  • Torrey Sanseverino
    Senior Research Manager, Beyond Carbon
  • Natural Capital
SDG 13 is the most obvious SDG for project developers to claim as carbon credits are inherently climate positive. However, little is known about the value it adds to carbon credits. Unsurprisingly, the percentage of projects issuing carbon credits with SDG 13, the most commonly claimed SDG, is on the rise. However, a lack of transparency in SDG claims makes it difficult for buyers to understand the true impacts behind the claims. This report on SDG 13 is the second report in a series¹¹ on SDG claims in the VCM, which details the suitability of each SDG for use in the VCM and recommendations when considering credits with each claim.

Here are some key takeaways from the report

  • UN SDG 13 (Climate Action) indicators are not useful at the VCM project scale without adjustment and not all UN SDG 13 indicators are representative of “climate impact”. 

  • Indicator 13.2.2, “Total Greenhouse Gas Emissions”, is the most applicable and scalable to the project level because it measures carbon emissions at any scale. 

  • Credits with other SDG claims alongside 13 can have significant price premiums and make stronger sustainable development impacts.

Contents

  • SDG 13 has a clear link to VCM Projects

  • Climate action as a co-benefit is difficult to represent through SDG 13 claims

  • SDG 13 could be a valuable asset in the VCM

  • Conclusion

  • Appendices 

  • Sources and References

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