New mechanisms, such as the Kyoto Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), aim to curb such emissions by providing market-driven incentives. The CDM offers tradable “carbon credits” against project-based emission reduction in developing countries.

Masdar views the CDM as an exceptional opportunity for Abu Dhabi to lead the creation of the necessary conditions for sustainable growth in the region and to simultaneously address key environmental concerns in a significant manner.

The Carbon Management Unit is harnessing government commitment and private initiative to spearhead the development of CDM projects in the Middle East and North Africa. It is actively developing a broad portfolio of carbon-related projects in oil & gas, heavy industry, renewable energy and waste management, together with various government and industry partners.

The Unit is particularly focused on advancing CO2 capture and storage (CCS) for enhanced oil recovery - a strategic technology with positive impact on the regional economy. CCS is the most promising technology for the reduction of anthropogenic CO2 emissions and a viable substitution for the vast   amount of natural gas currently re-injected into ageing oil reservoirs.