Why the end of Climate Active isn’t the end of voluntary climate action: A proactive roadmap for Australian carbon credit buyers

Australia will close the Climate Active certification scheme and phase out its “carbon neutral” trademark by 30 June 2027, leaving companies that relied on the programme to redesign their voluntary climate claims. South Pole argues that the closure should not end carbon credit purchasing, but should prompt buyers to adopt stronger international frameworks and higher-integrity procurement. Companies should first audit labels, marketing and disclosures, then distinguish between financing mitigation for ongoing emissions and securing durable removals to neutralise residual emissions at net zero. Procurement can prioritise CCP-labelled credits, favourable independent ratings and domestic ACCU projects delivering community and biodiversity benefits. South Pole also recommends aligning strategies with frameworks such as SBTi’s Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2.0, the VCMI Claims Code, Oxford Principles and ISO guidance. Finally, organisations should build diversified portfolios, develop a plan to retire “carbon neutral” claims, and communicate transparently about targets, credit use, supported projects and climate impact.
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