The CarbonNeutral Protocol was created in 2002 and is updated annually to reflect the latest scientific, policy and business developments. It provides a clear, credible, and transparent framework for carbon neutral programs. Carbon neutrality represents immediate climate action and enables companies to clearly communicate that their emissions have been offset using carbon credits.
New consumer research, led by Climate Impact Partners in 2026, that found climate claims can help drive sales. In fact, 47% of consumers were more likely to buy with a climate claim or certification. Rising to 60% of Millennials and Gen Z. 45% of consumers surveyed would pay more.
Carbon Neutral is the most correctly understood claim of those we tested, and it ranked second as most appealing and credible to consumers.
The CarbonNeutral Protocol is structured in five steps:
- Define what your claim will cover
- Measure your emissions
- Target emissions reductions
- Reduce emissions through internal reductions and external offsetting
- Inform others of your actions clearly and transparently
Example emissions profile of a company certified as CarbonNeutral® between the years 2024 and 2032
Main claim you can make:
We have offset all remaining emissions by delivering finance to emission reduction projects, supporting the transition to a low carbon global economy.
Examples:
- In 2021 Brooks Running released their first CarbonNeutral® product, the Ghost 14 shoe. Read more.
- Neal’s Yard Remedies has been a CarbonNeutral® company since 2008. Read more.
The CarbonNeutral Protocol can be accessed here:
The CarbonNeutral Protocol is managed by us, Climate Impact Partners. We have more than 27 years’ experience working with clients all over the world to deliver climate action that goes beyond internal reductions and finances the global transformation to a low carbon economy.
CarbonNeutral certification is powered by Climate Impact Partners’ enhanced due diligence program which includes an in-depth ten stage review of the quality and risks of all the carbon finance projects we support.
Climate Impact Partners builds on the expertise, integrity, and innovation of two companies, Natural Capital Partners and ClimateCare, that have led the voluntary carbon market to transform the global economy, improve health and livelihoods, and restore a thriving planet. You can find out more about us here.
Some of our service offerings for this claim:
Is CarbonNeutral® Certification right for you?
For a more in-depth understanding of CarbonNeutral certification and to find out if it is the right claim for you, try our claims digital tool – answer a few questions and see which carbon credit-related claims are suitable for your business.
ECGT Certification Verification Framework
CarbonNeutral Certification Verification Framework - July 2026
PDF, 385.6KB
DownloadExplore other guidelines and frameworks
ISO Carbon Neutrality
ISO’s Carbon Neutrality Standard ensures that carbon neutrality efforts are scientifically valid and communicated transparently.
Read more
VCMI Carbon Integrity
VCMI’s Carbon Integrity claim provides guidance for companies to make credible claims about their voluntary use of carbon credits.
Read more
ISO Net Zero Guidelines
The Net Zero Guidelines help those working towards net zero to understand net zero definitions, principles, and claims.
Read more
SBTi Net Zero Standard
The Corporate Net Zero Standard is used by companies to set net zero targets consistent with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
Read moreDisclaimer: The information on this webpage, the contents of the CarbonNeutral Protocol and Climate Impact Partners Protocol, and any other guidance or opinion that we share about certification, aims at providing technical information on the requirements of our certification programs. In no event shall this information be considered as a legal opinion, and in no event shall we be liable for any claims, commitments, or statements that you or any third party makes in connection with our certifications. We make no guarantee that by using our certifications, you will be in compliance with any laws, rules or regulations, including the ECGT Directive and those relating to mandatory or voluntary GHG emission reductions programs, climate commitments, carbon neutrality or any other environmental, social and governance commitment of any kind.
