Ecofys develops Emission Trading Schemes map

19 December 2012 Consultancy.uk

Together with the International Carbon Action Partnership, Ecofys has launched the Emissions Trading Schemes (ICAP). The interactive map provides insight in the status and design of ETS around the world. In addition, it provides visitors the possibility to compare the effectiveness of ETS across countries.

The project was to a large extent made possible by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, which provided a budget €50,000.

Emissions Trading Schemes

Emissions Trading Schemes are used by governments as a tool to counter climate change. Under the scheme, governments set a limit on the amount of pollution that may be emitted. The limit is subsequently allocated or sold to firms in the form of emissions permits. If firms have a higher emission than their permits allow, then they need to buy additional permits from those who require fewer permits. As a result, the overall market is provided with an incentive to operate in a CO2 efficient manner and as a whole the market does not exceed the pre-defined emissions target.

Ecofys ETS overview map

The Emission Trading Schemes- map can be found on the website of the ICAP

Ecofys’ contribution

Ecofys developed the structure and design of the Interactive ETS Map and played an important role in collecting much of the underlying ETS-data. The ETS gives, on a national level, insight in amongst others, key ETS design elements, emission caps, industry sectors part of the ETS and the number of firms in each scheme. The ETS map currently covers 29 jurisdictions, including 8 with an ETS in force, 9 where implementation of an ETS is scheduled and 12 where an ETS is under consideration.

“Our map helps by providing a clear overview of the current information publicly available. Stakeholders can avoid lengthy searches across countries and languages by using this one-stop-shop for a first impression of the ETS-systems around the world,” said Alyssa Gilbert van Ecofys advisory firm. Leif Ervik VAN ICAP adds: “The ETS provides participating countries the opportunity to share best practice and learn from each other's experiences”.