Blockchain for Carbon Credits: Transparency or Scam?

Emerging Tech Debates

Can blockchain bring real transparency and accountability to the carbon credit market—or is it just the latest tool for greenwashing and hype?

In this episode, we dive deep into the promise and pitfalls of using blockchain to fix one of climate action’s most controversial tools: carbon credits. Supporters say blockchain’s decentralized and tamper-proof ledger can clean up the system by making every carbon credit traceable, verifiable, and auditable. Smart contracts could automate oversight, cut out shady middlemen, and reduce costs.

Sounds great—until you look closer.

We’ll explore the dark side too: Are tokenized carbon credits really reducing emissions, or just moving numbers around? What about the risks of double counting, low-quality offsets, and unregulated platforms? And can a decentralized system still be held to consistent standards?

We’ll unpack real-world examples like Toucan, KlimaDAO, and emerging blockchain registries—analyzing what’s working, what’s not, and what’s still unknown. Plus, how regulators and industry standards might shape the future of this space.

Whether you're a blockchain believer or a climate skeptic, this episode gives you the insights to decide: Is blockchain a breakthrough for carbon markets—or a slick new scam with a green coat of paint?