Today, a new government is taking office in Germany! Will it take the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) seriously?
The coalition agreement — signed just yesterday — briefly mentions “trustworthy CO2 reductions through certified, high-quality and permanent projects” of carbon removals.
But beyond that?
⚠️No clear plan to incentivize voluntary climate action
⚠️ No regulatory or financial instruments to support high-quality neutralization of emissions
⚠️ No provisions for integrating such actions into national climate strategies.
This sends the wrong message — especially now. Companies across Europe are investing in their net zero strategies. They need clarity, not silence.
📍 Other countries across Europe are stepping up by introducing concrete policies and initiatives to strengthen the VCM:
🇫🇷 France launched a national charter in April 2025 for the responsible, Paris-aligned use of carbon credits — developed with 17 companies including Schneider Electric, Capgemini and Beko Corporate. 🔗Link
🇬🇧 The UK is running a public consultation on six core principles for voluntary carbon and nature markets — with a clear focus on integrity and trust.🔗Link
🇪🇸 Spain enacted Royal Decree 214/2025: mandatory footprinting, disclosure, and five-year reduction plans for large firms and public bodies.🔗Link
These frameworks differ — but they all unlock voluntary climate finance by providing certainty.
Germany must not fall behind.
Carsten Schneider — as incoming Minister for Climate and Environment:
💡 How do you plan to incentivize voluntary climate leadership in Germany?
🗣️ To all corporate climate leaders out there: What policy support would empower your net zero strategy? Let’s start the conversation.