EMEA > Africa > BRIEFING: Global carbon markets’ value lowest since 2021, year ahead critical -report

BRIEFING: Global carbon markets’ value lowest since 2021, year ahead critical -report

Published 18:09 on February 9, 2026 / Last updated at 00:12 on February 10, 2026 / , and / Americas (LATAM & Caribbean, US & Canada), Asia Pacific (Asia, Pacific), CO2 Management (CCUS, Engineered Removals), EMEA (Africa, Europe, Middle East), Insights (Briefings), International (Aviation/CORSIA, CBAM & Tariffs, Paris Article 6/PACM, Shipping), Nature-based Carbon (Forestry, Other NbS), Net Zero Transition (Industrial Decarbonisation, Investment, Reporting & Disclosure, Power/Electrification, Transport & Heating Fuels), Voluntary (VCM Developments, VCM Governance)

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Global carbon markets contracted in 2025, with their total value falling to €791 billion, the lowest since 2021, analysts' calculations have found, with 2026 now seen as a pivotal year for setting the long-term direction of the sector.
Global carbon markets contracted in 2025, with their total value falling to €791 billion, the lowest since 2021, analysts' calculations have found, with 2026 now seen as a pivotal year for setting the long-term direction of the sector.


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