Fixing the messy voluntary carbon market

Modular Protocols

Ryan Orbuch introduces the concept of modular protocols in the carbon market, emphasizing their role in enhancing consistency and adaptability. He explains that these protocols allow for a flexible approach to carbon measurement and verification, accommodating changes in earth science and supplier methods. This modularity is crucial as it enables the updating of protocols over time, ensuring they remain relevant as scientific understanding evolves 1.

The modular piece is really important because one thing that's interesting about the traditional registries on Vera or something is 230 methodologies or something in that range.

--- Ryan Orbuch

By using a modular approach, the carbon market can better address the complexities of carbon fluxes and improve the accuracy of carbon removal efforts 2.

   

Feedback Loops

The feedback loop between registries and suppliers is critical for improving carbon removal processes. Ryan highlights the lack of dynamic feedback in the current system, where suppliers often operate in isolation, merely filing paperwork without guidance on improving their methods 3. This gap has led to a bifurcation in the market, with higher quality credits gaining traction as scrutiny increases.

There's very little feedback loop for suppliers in how to do their carbon thing better.

--- Ryan Orbuch

Shayle Kann and Ryan discuss the potential for new players to provide deeper verification and grading of credits, which could help distinguish between high and low-quality credits, ultimately leading to a more transparent and trustworthy market 4.

   

Emerging Techniques

Emerging techniques in the carbon market focus on improving the impact of carbon credits through innovative concepts. Ryan argues for a complete reinvention of the system, emphasizing the need for a science-first approach that directly interacts with the carbon cycle 5. This approach contrasts with the traditional system, which often lacks direct correlation with actual carbon removal.

You need someone whose job it is is to figure out the effect of a given thing on the carbon cycle.

--- Ryan Orbuch

Additionally, the concept of payment after delivery is introduced, where credits are issued only after successful carbon removal, ensuring accountability and incentivizing suppliers to meet their targets 6.