Main points

• Integrity is a governance issue, not a technical fix. Carbon standards alone cannot prevent harm in fragile settings; investments must tackle weak institutions, land governance and political incentives that enable corruption and elite capture.
• Land rights are the backbone of credible carbon markets. Without secure, transparent land tenure and accessible land data, carbon projects risk land grabs, conflict and loss of legitimacy with communities and investors.
• Community consent is non-negotiable. Free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) and meaningful participation are essential to avoid grievances, ensure fair benefit-sharing and sustain long-term project viability.
• Fragility and conflict shape carbon outcomes. Projects in unstable areas must be conflict-sensitive and aligned with peacebuilding and livelihood priorities, or they may worsen insecurity and displacement.
• Transparency builds trust and market credibility. Public carbon registries, open project data and independent audits are critical to prevent double counting, fraud and reputational risks.
• Civic space is a safeguard, not an obstacle. Supporting civil society and community monitoring strengthens accountability and helps detect integrity failures early.
• Benefit-sharing must reach people directly. Linking carbon revenues to inclusive, transparent payment systems, supported by financial inclusion, reduces leakage and reinforces local support.
• Donor coordination matters. Fragmented external interventions can weaken governance; aligned, long-term support for national systems is essential for high-integrity carbon markets.