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The Climate Cent Foundation

The Climate Cent Foundation (Stiftung Klimarappen) was established by Swiss industry as part of a voluntary initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Climate Focus, together with South Pole, were selected to purchase Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) from small-scale projects with outstanding sustainable development benefits.

The Climate Cent Foundation is funded by a charge levied on all imports of diesel and petrol into Switzerland at a rate of 1.5 Swiss cents per litre. This will generate approximately CHF 100 million (EUR 63 million) per year and is expected to generate a total revenue of CHF 740 million (EUR 466 million). The Foundation will use these funds to purchase emission reductions from projects in Switzerland and abroad. Specifically, CHF 200 million (eur 126 million) will be spent internationally.

Part of Climate Cent Foundation’s strategy is to source Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) credits from high quality, small-scale projects with outstanding sustainable development benefits. In recognition of the contribution these projects make towards sustainability, and the role of carbon finance to support these projects, the Foundation is willing to offer premium prices with attractive purchase terms. For more information on the project selection criteria, download the Climate Cent Foundation Information sheet (124kb PDF).