The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and carbon data platform Sylvera have joined forces to address the persistent undervaluation of African carbon credits in global markets.
Launched at the margins of the 38th African Union Summit, the Carbon Data Access Partnership (CaDAP) aims to empower African governments with robust data to enhance their participation in carbon markets and secure fair pricing for their carbon credits.
Africa is home to vast potential for high-quality carbon projects, yet its contributions have historically been undervalued due to insufficient data transparency and inconsistent project ratings. The new partnership seeks to change this narrative by providing governments with access to Sylvera’s platform, which offers insights on over 21,000 carbon projects globally. These insights will enable governments to assess existing projects, identify opportunities for future initiatives, and advocate for higher-value investments.
According to Allister Furey, CEO of Sylvera, the partnership is a significant step in leveraging Africa’s unique role in achieving global net-zero targets. “By using our platform and drawing on the world’s most trusted carbon data, African governments will not only gain a clearer understanding of their carbon market landscape but also ensure their projects receive the recognition and value they deserve,” he said.
Beyond improving market engagement, the partnership is designed to inform policymaking, enhance regulatory frameworks, and attract investment. Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant UN Secretary-General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, noted that credible and up-to-date data will be pivotal for African countries to maximize the economic and climate benefits of carbon markets.
The initiative comes at a crucial time when African nations are pushing for equitable climate financing and meaningful participation in global carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The UNDP and Sylvera collaboration are expected not only to amplify Africa’s contributions to global climate goals but also drive sustainable economic growth across the continent.
Last Updated on May 11, 2025 by samboad
