We are in the era of corporate sustainability, of purpose-driven narratives and interviews about environmental transformation across different sectors. These are, without a doubt, necessary aspects to ensure companies participate in and drive efforts to address the climate challenges we face.
However, it is also time to question how well supported the information many companies share truly is; not to diminish their efforts, but to ensure the rigor of the exercise and prevent sustainability from becoming merely marketing slogans and a false impression of progress.
That is why, when it comes to climate change management, we want to ask managers and executives: If offsetting carbon (achieving carbon neutrality) were banned tomorrow, how sustainable would your company be?
What is the first thing that comes to mind when reading the question? Panic over status? Indifference or relief at being able to drop an “expense” you were incurring out of obligation? Concern because your climate performance relied solely on credits? These are probably the scenarios for some companies…
It is true that carbon credits exist to help channel funding toward projects that generate a truly measurable and verifiable impact, which broadens the horizon of action for many companies that lack large capabilities and offers a real alternative to inaction. In fact, in its Carbon Credit Market report (2026 - 2033), Grand View Research states that “the global carbon credit market size was estimated at USD 886.77 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 6,129.87 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 25.9% from 2026 to 2033” (1).
You may also be interested in: Carbon credit due diligence: the key to net zero success.
Nevertheless, it cannot (nor should it) be the decisive action for managing climate change-related impacts. As is well known, ISO 10468 states that carbon credits “are only used once GHG emission reductions and GHG removal enhancements have been achieved” (2).
So, this question is key because it depends less on speeches and intentions, and more on data and processes. If offsetting were banned tomorrow, is your company backed by its carbon footprint management capacity? You should be able to rely on:
- A formally established baseline and an annual carbon footprint inventory (scopes 1, 2 and 3).
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A methodology aligned with recognized standards (GHG Protocol, ISO 14064-1), clearly documented and with well-defined boundaries that remain consistent over time.
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Traceable, supported data, with evidence capable of withstanding an external audit.
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Tracking indicators and dashboards (not just an inventory that stays in a document and is forgotten year after year).
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A reduction plan with clear short-, medium- and long-term priorities; linked to operational and investment decisions.
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Defined internal governance, with clear roles and processes for data capture and validation.
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The capacity to report to investors, clients and regulators, without extensive manual rework.
All of these aspects, correctly applied and continuously monitored, give companies the capabilities they need for sustainability management to work inherently through internal processes and data, rather than becoming an isolated silo within the company that depends exclusively on purchasing credits and faces regulatory, operational and reputational risks.
Carbon footprint management with CarbonBox
In this context, CarbonBox is the platform that helps you secure and substantiate your management, without doing it alone or building a specialized team from scratch. In one place, companies can measure their scopes 1, 2 and 3 with recognized methodologies, have clear indicators, prepare robust information for audit processes and define their decarbonization plan with expert guidance.
If you want to understand how to apply this in your company, schedule a free meeting HERE to review your specific needs and how we can support you.
References
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Grand View Research. (2025). Carbon credit market size, share & trends analysis report. Available at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/carbon-credit-market-report
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ICONTEC. (2023). NTC 14068-1: Climate change management. Transition to net zero. Part 1: Carbon neutrality. Instituto Colombiano de Normas Técnicas y Certificación. p 2.