Carbon Direct has released a new framework called the Criteria for High-Quality Low Carbon Fuels, designed to help buyers in voluntary markets evaluate and procure low-carbon fuels. The framework addresses the complexity of navigating multiple certification schemes and regulatory programs by providing a unified set of quality principles. It focuses on sectors like aviation, shipping, and heavy industry where demand for alternative fuels is growing. The criteria are built around six core principles: avoiding social and environmental harms, preventing negative ecological impacts, applying comprehensive carbon accounting, demonstrating additionality, ensuring sustainable feedstock sourcing, and assessing leakage effects. The guidance emphasizes traceable supply chains, protection of Indigenous rights, and transparent disclosure of environmental risks. Carbon Direct says the framework is meant to complement existing certification systems, not replace them.
