Mayor launches carbon and nature marketplace

A new platform is set to unlock investment in green jobs, biodiversity and climate projects through an innovative, locally led approach.

The North East Carbon and Nature Marketplace, launched by North East mayor Kim McGuinness, is the UK’s first carbon and nature investment platform led by a Combined Authority. 

Developed with the Net Zero North East England partnership, the online platform allows businesses to buy carbon credits or back environmental initiatives across the region.

Mayor McGuinness said: “Launching our own North East Carbon and Nature Marketplace means organisations based here in the region can now support green projects right on their doorsteps.

“The marketplace will not only improve the environments where we live and work, but it will also support social value projects all over the region and create new habitats where nature and wildlife can thrive. 

“It also sets us on our path to make the North East the home of the green energy revolution; transforming our economy through green jobs and leading the sustainable industries of the future.”

At launch, 10,000 carbon credits are available, alongside over £11 million of investible project opportunities. 

Early projects include peatland restoration in Northumberland and County Durham, as well as support for schemes such as the North East Community Forest and Northumberland Community Energy.

Paul Leadbitter, peatland programme manager at the North Pennines National Landscape, added: “Healthy peatlands are incredibly important for people and nature. 

“Restoring them delivers benefits such as cleaner and more consistent water supplies, helps reduce downstream flooding, and locks up carbon as the peat forms. 

“Damaged peatlands contribute to climate change by releasing carbon back into the atmosphere. 

“In the UK this equates to about 3.5 per cent of the total national emissions each year.

“Our work aims to ensure our peatlands function for nature and people, both today and into the future. 

“And that is why we are pleased to see the launch of the North East Carbon and Nature Marketplace as it will help shine a spotlight on our projects and attract further private investment to allow us to continue this valuable restoration work.”

The online marketplace was supported by the Environment Agency’s Local Investment in Natural Capital (LINC) programme and aims to turn climate ambition into tangible, local action by connecting business investment with real-world environmental impact.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council and portfolio lead for environment, coast and rural at the North East Combined Authority, added: “Because of the North East’s unique geography, the North East Carbon and Nature marketplace will feature projects in coastal, countryside and urban areas; reinforcing the North East’s position as a leading destination for decarbonisation, renewable energy, and carbon capture alongside our ambitions to be at the forefront of the green energy revolution.”

To find out more about the Carbon and Nature Marketplace, see here.

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