Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe has launched a new national carbon trading system that uses blockchain technology to improve transparency and ensure local communities benefit from climate projects.

The carbon registry, developed with the help of Dubai-based company A6 Labs, will record all transactions involving carbon credits. These credits are earned when projects reduce or remove carbon emissions from the atmosphere, such as planting trees or using clean energy. The credits can then be sold to companies looking to offset their emissions.

A6 Labs Chief Executive Officer, Harib Bakhshi, noted that the new system ensures that 90% of the money earned from selling carbon credits must be used on clean electricity projects. The remaining 10% can be spent on helping local communities.

“All the records, including how the money is spent, are stored on the blockchain. This allows anyone to check and see the real impact of the projects. The use of blockchain, a secure, digital ledger means that all data is safely stored and cannot be changed or deleted. This helps prevent fraud and builds trust in the system."

There has been growing concern globally about whether carbon offset projects really help communities, especially those living near forests. Some critics say the benefits often don’t reach the people most affected by climate change.

Kudakwashe Manyanga, CEO of the Africa Institute for Carbon Trading, said it is important to ensure local communities receive real and visible benefits.

“These are often poor communities who are also the most affected by climate change We must see actual investments that improve their lives, not just talk about carbon credits,” he said.

Zimbabwe’s new carbon registry is part of its commitment under the Paris Agreement to fight climate change. The system follows global rules under Article 6 of the agreement, which allows countries to trade carbon credits.

“This is a big step for Zimbabwe. It shows that we are serious about protecting the environment and making sure our people benefit from global climate actions,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Evelyn Ndlovu.

The country hopes that the new system will attract more international buyers and support more local projects that reduce emissions and improve lives.