AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)

What Is AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)?

Last reviewed by Marcus Williams on 02 April 2026

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) is a blockchain-based marketplace that enables the trading of tokenised carbon credits. Approved by Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), ACX uses distributed ledger technology to facilitate transparent and secure transactions for verified emissions reductions.

Established in 2018, AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) operates as a digital platform for buying and selling carbon credits. These credits represent the reduction of one tonne of CO2 or its equivalent greenhouse gases. The exchange is built on a distributed ledger technology that ensures transparency and security. Making it easier to track and verify transactions.

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How to Buy Carbon Credits on AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)

To buy carbon credits on ACX, users first need to register and create an account with the platform. Once registered, they can browse available carbon credit offerings from verified projects. Users can then submit bids or offers directly through the exchange interface. The process includes steps such as selecting the type of carbon credit-VERs (Verified Emissions Reductions) or CERs (Certified Emission Reductions)-and specifying the price per tonne CO2e.

ACX supports trading in a variety of units, allowing buyers and sellers to transact directly with each other. The platform provides real-time market data, enabling users to track prices and trends. Verification standards such as Verra and Gold Standard ensure that all credits traded on ACX are backed by reliable project outcomes. After completing a transaction, both parties receive blockchain-verified certificates confirming their purchase or sale.

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Current Prices on AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)

As of early 2023, the price range for carbon credits on ACX is between $2 and $20 per tonne CO2e. This wide variance reflects differences in project locations, types, and methodologies used to calculate emission reductions. For instance, credits from projects in developing countries often command lower prices compared to those in Europe or North America.

Price trends can fluctuate based on global events such as policy changes, economic conditions, and supply-demand dynamics. Over the past year, there has been a notable increase in demand for high-quality carbon credits, which tend to have higher prices. For example, Gold Standard projects saw an average price of $15 per tonne CO2e compared to Verra's around $7.

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Who Uses AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)?

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) attracts a diverse range of users including companies aiming to meet their sustainability goals, governments seeking to reduce national emissions, and individuals looking to offset personal carbon footprints. Buyers include large corporations like Microsoft and Shell that need to comply with internal targets or external regulations.

Sellers are typically project developers who manage initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in areas such as forestry conservation, renewable energy production, and waste management. These projects must adhere to strict verification standards set by organisations like Verra and the Gold Standard before their credits can be listed on ACX.

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) and Recycling Credits

AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) integrates blockchain technology to track recycled materials from collection through processing stages. This feature provides a transparent chain of custody that links physical recycling efforts with verified carbon credit generation. For example, projects focused on e-waste management can generate credits based on the amount of greenhouse gases avoided by recycling electronics instead of landfill disposal.

By using ACX's platform, organisations engaged in electronic waste recycling and other environmental initiatives gain credibility through blockchain-verified evidence of their impact. This not only enhances trust among buyers but also encourages more investment into sustainable practices that reduce emissions effectively.

Alternatives to AirCarbon Exchange (ACX)

Several competing platforms exist for trading carbon credits, each with its own advantages and limitations. The Climate Bonds Initiative (CBI) focuses on financing projects through bond issuance rather than direct trading. Similarly, the Carbon Certification Network (CCN) specialises in certifying small-scale community-based initiatives but doesn't offer a marketplace.

Other notable exchanges include CBL (Climate Bond Link) and CIX (Canadian Intergovernmental Carbon Credit Exchange). Both platforms have established themselves in specific regions with strong regulatory frameworks similar to ACX's ADGM approval. However, the trading mechanics can differ significantly between these exchanges due to varying methodologies for verification and pricing.

Alternatives to AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) Direct Purchase

Direct purchase options outside of marketplaces like ACX include buying credits directly from project developers or through intermediaries such as brokers and consultants. These channels may offer flexibility in terms of customised solutions but often lack the transparency provided by blockchain technology.

By choosing direct purchases, organisations can potentially negotiate better prices but must conduct thorough due diligence to ensure credit authenticity. This approach might be suitable for buyers who prefer one-on-one relationships over marketplace interactions.

In summary, while AirCarbon Exchange (ACX) provides a unique platform for trading tokenised carbon credits with strong verification standards and blockchain technology, alternatives such as CBL and CIX also serve important roles in the global carbon market. Each option offers distinct benefits that cater to different needs and preferences of buyers and sellers alike.

Sources

• WHO
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
• Consumer Technology Association