The problem
Information asymmetry is draining Africa's carbon wealth.
The global carbon market is worth over $900 billion, yet African nations that host critical carbon sinks receive a fraction of the revenue. Foreign entities with superior market knowledge and established networks systematically extract value, leaving communities with little to show for the carbon they protect.
<5%
Of global carbon credit revenue reaches Africa
90%
Of benefits leave the communities where carbon is stored
$2B+
Traded annually from African carbon projects
3x
More value captured by intermediaries than communities
How the cash drain works
Knowledge gap
Local communities and governments lack awareness of carbon credit markets, pricing mechanisms, and their own negotiating power.
Exploitative deals
Foreign developers sign long-term agreements at below-market rates, locking communities into unfavorable terms for decades.
No infrastructure
Without local verification, monitoring, and governance infrastructure, communities cannot independently participate in carbon markets.
Our solution
GreenShilling exists to close the gap.
We build the infrastructure for accountability and integrity that African carbon markets are missing. By providing transparency, education, and community-centered governance, we ensure that the value of carbon stays where it belongs.
Transparency through information
We provide communities with real-time market data, fair pricing benchmarks, and plain-language explanations of their rights and options.
Integrity infrastructure
From verification to governance, we build the systems that make accountability the default, not an afterthought.
Community empowerment
Training community leaders to negotiate from a position of knowledge, ensuring they capture fair value from carbon projects on their land.
Policy advocacy
Working with governments and standards bodies to reform the rules so they protect communities and promote equitable benefit sharing.
Advocacy focus
Standards, policy, and transparency
We advocate for clear benefit-sharing rules and open evidence so communities can negotiate from a position of strength.
Active now
Standards literacy sessions
Workshops and briefing materials for community leaders, partners, and local stakeholders.
What we do now
Active advocacy to unlock fair market access.
Standards literacy
Plain-language guidance on Verra, Gold Standard, and Plan Vivo requirements so partners and communities align early.
Policy alignment
Briefings and feedback loops with policymakers and verification bodies to push for equity and transparency.
Partner mobilization
Convening donors, MRV providers, and implementers to build the missing infrastructure for Tanzania pilots.
What we publish
Evidence packs and guidance for partners.
Standards briefings
Side-by-side summaries of major standards and what they mean for community governance and benefit sharing.
Market integrity notes
Position papers on fairness, transparency, and verification readiness for African projects.
Partner mobilization kits
Clear requirements, pilot prep checklists, and collaboration pathways for funders and MRV teams.
Community education tools
Workbooks and training sessions designed for local leaders to navigate carbon finance responsibly.