Money Laundering in Emissions Trading

Money Laundering in Emissions Trading

Understanding the Basics:

  • What are Emission Certificates?: Tradable permits that authorize companies to emit a specific amount of greenhouse gases.
  • What is Emission Trading?: A market-based approach to control greenhouse gas emissions through tradable certificates.

The Mechanics of Money Laundering in Emission Trading:

  • How does it work?: Money laundering in this sector involves tactics such as buying excessive certificates, engaging in unusual transaction offers, and dealing with foreign aircraft operators.
  • Why is it a concern?: This form of money laundering undermines the integrity of emissions trading, intended to combat climate change.

Identifying Money Laundering Indicators:

  • Companies must look out for signs like unknown buyers in the sector, unusual trading patterns, and significant price deviations.

Implementing AML Compliance in the EU-ETS:

  • What are the key measures?: Enhanced due diligence, risk awareness, transaction monitoring, employee training, and collaboration with authorities are crucial.

Essential Measures for Companies:

  • What steps should companies take?:
    • Conducting VAT ID verification.
    • Ensuring account assignment in the registry matches.
    • Determining the business purpose.
    • Implementing thorough due diligence.

For more detailed information and ongoing updates on navigating the complexities of money laundering in emissions trading, please contact us.

Sources:

https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/detecting-money-laundering-in-emissions-trading

https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/erkennung-von-geldwaesche-im-emissionshandel

https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/eu-ets-detecting-preventing-fighting-money

https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/publikationen/eu-ets-erkennung-praevention-bekaempfung-von