What is the relationship between registries and emission trading?
In theory, GHG registries could act as a “bank account” for GHG emission allowances and/or reduction credits. Registries would ensure that these accounts were accurate and provide credibility for the contents of these accounts. Also in theory, the contents of these accounts could then be used to engage in emission trading, with sellers withdrawing sales (credits/allowances) from their accounts and buyers depositing purchases as part of transactions. The trading markets would facilitate the exchanges between parties and provide information about the GHG market. Currently in the United States, such arrangements between existing registries and emission trading markets have not occurred. Registries and emission trading markets exist as separate entities.
