Most rainforest carbon offsets 'worthless': media analysis

23 Sept 05:17 Key points summarised by AI

A recent media analysis concludes that most rainforest carbon offsets, used by corporations to balance their emissions, are essentially "worthless."
The nine-month investigation, conducted by The Guardian, Die Zeit, and SourceMaterial, found that roughly 90% of credits from Verra, the world's largest provider, are "phantom credits" that do not effectively reduce deforestation or provide climate benefits.
Verra disputes these findings, claiming the studies reached "incorrect conclusions" by failing to consider project-specific deforestation factors, though the company is currently reviewing and standardizing its calculation methods.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.