Definitions for "Clean Development Mechanism"
Keywords:  kyoto, cdm, cer, annex, emission
A Kyoto Protocol program that enables industrialized countries to finance emissions-avoiding projects in developing countries and receive credit for reductions achieved against their own emissions limitation targets. See Kyoto Protocol.
A mechanism that allows emission reduction and afforestation/reforestation projects to be implemented in developing countries that have ratified the Kyoto Protocol. CDM projects earn Certified Emission Reductions for the emission reductions/removals achieved.
The Clean Development Mechanism is when a project undertaken in a developing country generates reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, it contributes to the host country's sustainable development, and it accrues emission reduction credits. These credits - Certified Emission Reductions (CERs)- can be used to contribute to the emission reduction commitments of industrialized countries. Article 12 of the Kyoto Protocol defines CDM.