We are seeking an external consultant (or organisation) to evaluate the financial and impact risks and opportunities of high-integrity carbon markets in the UK.
Read the full invitation to tender << link to full tender will be added once finalised>>
We’re looking for someone with strong technical knowledge of carbon markets, understanding of land and nature in the UK, and experience in impact/thematic investing. You should be able to communicate complex findings clearly to non-technical audiences and provide insightful analysis of investment opportunities.
The work is expected to take six weeks, with a budget of £10,000.
Background
Our mission is to improve our natural world, secure a fairer future, and strengthen community bonds. As one of the largest independent funders in the UK, we support ambitious collaborations and work driven by communities.
Through our impact-first investment strategy, “Investing in Our Natural World,” we support high-integrity nature-based solutions across three themes:
- Species Health & Habitats
- Sustainable and Ethical Food
- Freshwater
We have actively engaged with nature markets through grant-making and investments, including developing standards, piloting innovative projects, and supporting NGOs. While we invest in nature markets, carbon markets are rarely used as the primary revenue stream for an investment.
Scope of work
The consultant will assess high-integrity carbon markets in the UK and identify potential investment opportunities. This includes:
- Defining each market, its units/credits, standards, methodologies, governance, and key features
- Evaluating environmental, social, and community impact integrity and risks
- Reviewing market trends, growth, pricing, and track record of impact investments
- Considering regulatory, commercial, and policy risks, including upcoming integration of Greenhouse Gas Removals into the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (from 2029)
- Creating a high-level market map of funds and organisations active in these markets.
Markets in scope:
- Woodland Carbon Code (primary focus)
- Peatland Carbon Code (primary focus)
- Other emerging/relevant standards (e.g., Wilder Carbon, Verra/VM0042, Saltmarsh, Kelp, Hedgerow, Soil Carbon Codes)
Consultants may suggest additional relevant markets to include.
Deliverables
- Interim Findings Phone Call - Summary of analysis, priorities, and next steps.
- Final Report - Comprehensive assessment of each aspect of the scope. We may share key findings publicly, though preparing a public-facing version is outside the current scope.
Timeline may be adjusted based on consultant availability.
Experience we’re looking for
We’re looking for someone with:
- Technical knowledge of carbon markets
- Knowledge of UK land, biodiversity, and nature-based solutions
- Experience in impact/thematic investing
- Strong analytical, interpretation, and communication skills
- Creativity, flexibility, and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to Esmée Fairbairn Foundation’s values and a values-based approach to research
Proposals are welcome from individuals or organisations. Single-provider arrangements are preferred for clarity of management and communication.
Read the full invitation to tender << link to full tender will be added once finalised>>
Registering your interest
If you are interested, email your proposal to jonny.page@esmeefairbairn.org.uk by 18 August 2025 (NEW DEADLINE NEEDED).
Your proposal (max 3 A4 pages) should include:
- Background and experience against the consultant profile
- Approach to the work, including budget breakdown, timescale, and mitigation of risks/challenges
- CV and/or track record of relevant projects
- Reference contact
You may append your CV and examples of work outside the 3-page limit.
