Researchers at the University of Oxford have introduced a new set of principles aimed at guiding responsible carbon trading under the Paris Agreement. The Oxford Principles for Responsible Engagement with Article 6, unveiled on 12 June 2025, seek to ensure that international carbon markets drive real climate action rather than enabling greenwashing.
Published ahead of the UN Bonn Climate Conference, where Article 6 of the Paris Agreement will be a central point of discussion, the principles are designed to provide clear guidance to countries, companies, and other actors participating in carbon markets. The goal is to ensure that emissions trading contributes meaningfully to global mitigation targets and does not serve as a loophole for avoiding domestic climate commitments.
The principles focus on three core areas: aligning mitigation outcomes with the goals of the Paris Agreement, ensuring the use of high-quality carbon credits, and enhancing transparency and robust accounting practices. By addressing these areas, the framework aims to support the integrity and credibility of carbon markets.
Dr Injy Johnstone from the Oxford Smith School, one of the authors, emphasised that the principles are designed to “foster international carbon markets that drive genuine climate action—as opposed to serving as a smokescreen for inaction.”
Fellow contributor Sindi Kuci highlighted the need for actor-specific guidance to ensure flexibility within the Article 6 mechanisms, while Juliette de Grandpré, another expert involved in the initiative, warned that carbon credits must not be used by countries to avoid robust domestic emissions cuts.
With growing global interest in carbon markets, the Oxford Principles aim to provide practical, evidence-based guidance for the responsible implementation of Article 6. They are expected to serve as a reference for governments and private actors alike, helping to promote both environmental integrity and sustainable development in international carbon trading.
