CDOP and SBTi Set New Standards for Carbon Data Governance

In early 2025, two initiatives reshaped the data governance landscape of voluntary carbon markets. The Carbon Data Open Protocol (CDOP), launched by a coalition including Sylvera and S&P Global, defines standardized taxonomies and interoperability requirements for carbon credit and emissions data. Aligning with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, CDOP seeks to harmonize data registries and enhance transparency and comparability of credits. Simultaneously, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) released Version 2.0 of its Corporate Net-Zero Standard, mandating separate Scope 1 and 2 targets, annual progress tracking, and restrictive offset usage—permitting credits only for residual emissions after deep operational cuts. Together, these frameworks signal a shift from aspirational goals to auditable, science-based accountability, raising disclosure obligations, due diligence requirements, and reputational risks for greenwashing. Legal and compliance teams must update governance structures, supplier contracts, and reporting processes to align with these emerging benchmarks, as market integrity becomes inseparable from robust data governance reuters.com.