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Carbon trading is increasingly promoted as a mechanism to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support climate change efforts. However, from a climate justice perspective, this mechanism still faces various challenges related to fairness, transparency, and accountability. Reliance on carbon offset schemes has the potential to allow high-emitting countries or companies to continue emitting, while the burden of conservation falls more heavily on developing countries, as well as on indigenous peoples and local communities that maintain ecosystems. Without adequate safeguards, carbon trading also risks exacerbating inequalities in the distribution of benefits and neglecting the rights of affected communities.

For carbon trading to deliver equitable benefits, implemented policies must prioritize tangible emissions reductions, transparent governance, and equitable benefit sharing for communities that contribute to environmental conservation. Protection of land rights, community participation in decision-making, and strong oversight are crucial elements for preventing conflict and ensuring that climate policies do not disadvantage vulnerable groups. By applying the principles of climate justice, carbon trading can become an instrument that not only supports the achievement of emission reduction targets but also promotes sustainable development and public welfare.