GECO 2.2 outlines a development strategy for regional voluntary carbon markets
30/07/2026
How can voluntary carbon markets become a credible and sustainable opportunity for farmers, businesses and local communities? The Development Strategy Paper for Voluntary Regional Carbon Markets, developed within GECO 2.2, explores the future evolution of carbon farming by identifying the key conditions needed to establish transparent, reliable and economically viable regional carbon markets aligned with the evolving European regulatory framework.
Building on the project's pilot experience in Italy and Croatia, the publication analyses the rapid transformation of voluntary carbon markets, highlighting the growing importance of carbon credit quality, robust certification systems, transparent governance and stakeholder engagement. As the European Union implements the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation, the strategy paper examines how local market models can support both climate objectives and rural development while creating new opportunities for farmers through carbon farming practices.
The document also reflects on the lessons learned through GECO 2.2, demonstrating how scientific methodologies, digital tools, group certification schemes and transparent verification procedures can increase trust in carbon credits and improve market integrity. Particular attention is devoted to the role of collaboration among farmers, public authorities, research institutions and private companies in creating resilient regional carbon markets capable of delivering environmental, social and economic benefits.
Beyond analysing current market trends and regulatory developments, the strategy paper presents GECO 2.2 as a practical example of how voluntary carbon markets can be designed around transparency, scientific credibility and local stakeholder participation. It highlights the importance of balancing environmental integrity with economic sustainability, ensuring that carbon farming becomes a realistic and accessible opportunity, particularly for small and medium-sized farms.
The complete publication is available for consultation in the Library section of the GECO 2.2 website, under WP4 – Pilot Project about Regional Voluntary CO₂ Credit Market Applied to Agriculture, where users can explore the project's public deliverables and technical publications.
