EU carbon farming rules welcomed by industry, but demand remains biggest hurdle

The European Commission has adopted its first carbon farming certification methodologies under the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation, establishing an EU-wide framework for certifying climate-positive land management activities. Industry leaders, including the International Soil Carbon Industry Alliance (ISCIA), welcome the move as a step toward a harmonized market but warn that stimulating demand for certified units remains the sector’s biggest challenge. ISCIA is working with policymakers to develop guidance and explore mechanisms to boost buyer confidence and ensure market growth, while advocating for earlier regulatory drivers to support demand. The main concern is ensuring enough buyers participate to make the carbon farming market effective for farmers.