Oxford Programme on Net Zero Aligned Offsetting

30th September - 2nd October 2024

Course Description

 

All Paris-aligned emissions pathways highlight a need to significantly scale emissions reductions and removals. Where emissions cannot be reduced, offsetting through removals is essential to reaching net zero. However, current offsetting practice is beset by a range of issues and is not net zero aligned. The environmental integrity of carbon credits is frequently called into question, as is the reputation of organisations that rely on them to make offset claims. The result is a dynamic and complex carbon market that is rife with uncertainty and is difficult for financial institutions and investors to navigate effectively.

Within this context, this programme is designed to equip participants with the latest knowledge and tools to effectively engage in and advise on matters of net zero aligned offsetting. The programme covers the core tenets of a net zero-aligned offsetting strategy for actors in the financial sector and prepares its participants to meet both the challenges–and opportunities–of net zero aligned offsetting.

During the programme, participants will explore principles of net zero aligned offsetting, the state and trends of offsetting projects, the role of investor coalitions, engagement campaigns, removals budgets, policy trends and developments for compliance and voluntary markets, examine case studies of net zero aligned offsetting in practice, as well as study societal impacts and perceptions of offsetting, and the increasing prevalence of greenwashing, greenhushing and greeenwishing.