UNDP and Sylvera launch Carbon Data Access partnership to unlock Africa’s carbon potential

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and leading carbon data platform Sylvera have launched a partnership at the margins of the 38th African Union Summit to provide better access to carbon market insights for African countries.

The Carbon Data Access Partnership (CaDAP) will provide comprehensive data on carbon projects via Sylvera’s carbon data platform, giving participating countries’ governments access to insights on over 21,000 projects.

The partnership will enable African government officials to have full sight of existing and planned carbon projects within their territories. By facilitating access to data, the initiative intends to empower countries to engage more effectively with carbon markets - specifically under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement - and unlock carbon finance. Additionally, the data will inform policymaking decisions, contribute to host country’s readiness, and foster more favourable regulatory environments that are crucial for attracting investment.

Allister Furey, CEO of Sylvera, said: “Africa has a critical role to play in the journey to net zero with the continent at the forefront of driving meaningful climate action. Partnering with UNDP amplifies our mission by harnessing their excellent reach and expertise, so we can deliver transformative carbon insights that will drive climate action and economic growth. By using our platform and drawing on the world’s most trusted carbon data, governments will have the ability to fully assess existing projects, capitalize on future opportunities and, ultimately, ensure a fair and equitable net zero transition.”

Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant UN Secretary General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa noted: “UNDP is committed to the utilization of credible, up to date and comprehensive data, critical for informed policy and investment decisions to maximize benefits from carbon markets for African countries. It is our hope that through this partnership, African governments can gain access to relevant insights to engage more effectively with carbon markets.”

The Carbon Data Access Partnership (CaDAP) will support efforts to ensure that African carbon credits are valued more fairly in global markets. Despite Africa’s vast potential for high-integrity carbon projects, its credits have often been undervalued due to limited access to transparent data and standardized rating mechanisms.

By equipping governments with comprehensive insights on project performance, environmental impact, and additionality, this partnership aims to enhance credibility, attract higher-value investments, and advocate for pricing that reflects the true climate and development benefits of African carbon credits.

Source: UNDP