Stephen Erario

Colby College

ES334: An Examination of Developing Country Carbon Markets and Their Emerging Patterns

Main Findings

CDM emission reductions are inconsistent with the stated goal of equitable geographic distribution of projects (see Marrakech Accords). Inequality has exacerbated from PCF to CDM. The most feasible explanation is lack of appropriate capacity building due to disproportionate incentives for public/private local/national/international actors.
The PCF plays the role of a capacity builder and takes on a “learning-by-doing” approach to remain flexible in the establishment of methodologies, linking of actors, and various other forms of support while developing and managing an ER project portfolio. The CDM acts as the institutional framework in the emissions reduction scheme, stressing project, methodology, and DOE approvals.