ITMO-FOEN

ITMO FOEN

WHAT IS ITMO FOEN ?

ITMO-FOEN denotes Switzerland’s involvement with Internationally Transferred Mitigation Outcomes (ITMOs) under the Paris Agreement, which is administered by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN).

ITMOs represent emission reductions or removals that countries can transfer across borders to assist in achieving their climate goals as outlined in Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Switzerland leverages ITMOs to partially meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) by acquiring emission reductions from other nations through bilateral agreements.

FOEN is responsible for overseeing Switzerland’s carbon market operations, including the application of Article 6 mechanisms. It ensures that ITMO transactions adhere to international standards to prevent double counting and uphold environmental integrity and sustainable development.

Since 2020, Switzerland has entered into multiple bilateral agreements with countries such as Thailand, Peru, and Ghana to facilitate the transfer of ITMOs. These agreements provide the legal and procedural framework for the transfer and recognition of mitigation outcomes, incorporating provisions for authorization, transparency, and protection of human rights.

WHY ITMO FOEN?

  • Switzerland utilizes ITMOs to contribute toward its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement by acquiring verified emission reductions from other countries. This strategy allows the country to supplement its domestic emission reductions with international cooperation, thereby speeding up overall climate mitigation efforts.
  • Adherence to Paris Agreement Standards: FOEN oversees Switzerland’s carbon market operations to ensure that ITMO transfers comply with stringent international guidelines, preventing double counting and maintaining environmental integrity alongside social safeguards. Such compliance is crucial for credible and transparent climate action.
  • Switzerland has established bilateral agreements with several countries-including Ghana, Peru, Thailand, and Vanuatu-to facilitate ITMO transfers. These collaborations support climate initiatives to reduce emissions but also foster sustainable development outcomes like job creation, improved energy access, and gender empowerment in the host nations.
  • Switzerland leads in implementing Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement by developing voluntary cooperation frameworks that showcase how carbon markets can effectively drive global emission reductions while promoting sustainable development.

ITMO-FOEN allows Switzerland to meet its climate commitments with greater flexibility and cost efficiency, while encouraging international collaboration and upholding high standards of transparency, environmental responsibility, and social equity.

Contact us to find out how KBS can support you with ITMO FOEN services.
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