In the race to mitigate the climate crisis, carbon markets have been touted as an effective tool to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Governments, corporations, and international organizations promote these markets as a mechanism to curb emissions by allowing companies to "buy" and "sell" the right to emit carbon dioxide. In theory, this sounds like an efficient market-based approach. However, many climate advocates, particularly those pushing for social and environmental justice, argue that carbon markets are a false solution to the climate crisis—and here’s why. 1. Carbon Markets Prioritize Profit Over True Emission Reductions The fundamental premise of carbon markets is to create a financial incentive for reducing emissions. But this model inherently prioritizes profit over real climate action. Polluting companies can purchase carbon credits and continue their harmful practices, without significantly changing their business models or reducing their emissions a...