This briefing outlines the key design features that must be considered for carbon pricing systems to deliver real climate benefits while supporting people and communities.

Drawing on Carbon Market Watch’s long-standing expertise, it brings together current evidence, best practices, and lessons from past shortcomings to identify ten essential elements for effective and fair carbon pricing. It highlights the principles that should guide sound policy design implementation. Overall, the briefing underscores that carbon pricing can only play a meaningful role when it is grounded in strong environmental integrity, social fairness, and full transparency.