# Low-Carbon Certification Systems in Agriculture: A Review
###### Abstract  
The use of certification systems in agriculture mitigates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promotes sustainable low-carbon practices. Their implementation contributes to the rational use of resources and results in the development of a human-centric economy that prioritizes people's actual needs towards sustainable economic growth. Some low-carbon certification systems for agricultural products have been developed in European Union (EU) countries and elsewhere; however, their reliability in assessing agricultural emissions at the farm level and the anticipated benefits are not yet adequately justified. This review paper presents and discusses the most important existing certification systems, namely, Solagro, Label bas Carbone/LCL, LEAF Marque Standard, and Wineries for Climate Protection, the one being developed in the frame of the ClimaMED LIFE project, and the one developed almost 10 years ago in the Republic of Korea. The structure of these systems and their benefits and challenges are discussed. More emphasis is given to the EU certification schemes and the impact they may have towards meeting the targets of the Green Deal, which aims to reduce GHG emissions at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and make Europe climate neutral by 2050. G 2025 15 5285 15 285 15 285 15 285 285 285 285 285 285 285 285 285 285  
and offset their carbon footprint, as well as to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain. Through the adoption of these tools, agricultural producers can implement climate-smart practices such as precision farming, agroforestry, and improved livestock management while at the same time decreasing GHG emissions and enhancing resilience and productivity. In addition, these tools provide a competitive edge in the market by meeting the growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products [7; 8; 9]. Consumers are increasingly seeking assurance that the products they purchase have a low environmental footprint. Low-carbon certifications provide this assurance, enable producers to access premium markets, and strengthen their brand reputation [10]. They also enable agricultural producers to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. By implementing the certification process and adhering to rigorous standards, farmers can communicate their environmental stewardship to stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory bodies. This fosters trust and credibility, enhancing long-term relationships and enabling access to financial incentives and grants. In addition to consumer demand and corporate responsibility, low-carbon certifications also align with global sustainability goals and international commitments. The Paris Agreement, for instance, emphasizes the need to reduce GHG emissions and promote sustainable practices across sectors, including agriculture [11]. By embracing low-carbon certifications, agricultural producers contribute to meeting these global targets, demonstrate their dedication to climate action, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy [12; 13]. Certification schemes often complement and promote environmental legislation compliance. Also, the outcome of the use of sustainability standards to enable compliance with environmental policies introduced by governments may also contribute to the improvement in the effectiveness of certification schemes [14]. An alternative low-carbon certification scheme may be related to the increase in soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks in agricultural soils. It is known that SOC removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and contributes towards achieving carbon neutrality. However, an increase in SOC levels assumes that farmers invest in modern agricultural management practices prior to obtaining a private soil carbon certificate that may compensate for incurred costs.