In a landmark environmental transaction, global tech giant Apple Inc. has purchased and retired 100,000 carbon creditsfrom the Government of Guyana, Caribbean News Global has reported. The move, valued at approximately GY$313million (US$1.5 million), reflects Apple’s continuing commitment to environmental sustainability while enhancing the global credibility of Guyana’s carbon credit framework.
This transaction is part of Apple’s broader initiative to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain and productlifecycle by 2030. By purchasing carbon credits directly from Guyana, Apple is not only offsetting its corporate emissions but also supporting a country that has long preserved its vast tropical forests—vital carbon sinks in the fight against global climate change.
Guyana’s carbon credits originate from its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, a national policy aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth while preserving the country’s pristine forests, which cover approximately 85% ofits landmass. The LCDS has made Guyana a pioneer in forest-based carbon markets, particularly under the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART), a global standard for high-integrity carbon credits generated from reduced emissions due to deforestation and degradation.
The Vice President has previously highlighted that international carbon market participation is vital for climate justice, enabling forest-rich but economically developing countries like Guyana to benefit from global climate financing. Thetransaction with Apple provides further validation of Guyana’s REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation andForest Degradation) efforts and sends a positive signal to other potential buyers about the integrity and value of Guyanese carbon credits.
This milestone also supports the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, encouraging collaboration between the publicand private sectors in addressing the climate crisis. Apple’s choice to source credits from a sovereign program ratherthan voluntary corporate initiatives indicates a maturing carbon market where accountability and transparency are paramount.
According to Caribbean News Global, Apple’s purchase is expected to help Guyana establish a stronger position in the global carbon trading ecosystem, enhancing its ability to attract future investment and scale up forest protection initiatives.
As the global demand for high-integrity carbon credits continues to grow, this successful transaction between Apple andGuyana is a testament to how climate leadership, innovation, and environmental stewardship can converge for shared global benefit.
