New Zealand launches blockchain registry for low-carbon freight

The Sustainable Business Council (SBC) and the Netherlands-based platform 123Carbon have launched a blockchain-based registry in New Zealand to support the Low Emission Freight Certificate (LEFC) programme.

The LEFC is a market-based mechanism intended to decarbonize New Zealand’s road transportation sector by facilitating investments in low-emissions freight vehicles and infrastructure. Supported by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), the registry enables carriers to verify low-carbon transport activities and generate LEFC Environmental Attributes Certificates.

These certificates can be sold to forwarders and cargo owners, allowing them to claim transport emission reductions within their supply chains. This system is designed to create commercial incentives for carriers to invest in alternate fuels and low-emission trucks by providing pathways to recover those investments.