ICAP launches new research tool, the ETS Library

ICAP has unveiled a new reference database that was developed as a comprehensive research tool for those seeking in-depth information on ETS.

The ICAP ETS Library uniquely pools together different sources of information and categorizes references for easy use by policymakers, experts, and civil society. The entries in the database include academic literature, “grey literature” (e.g. from think tanks and NGOs), and government documents such as ETS legislation and policy proposals.      

This information is presented as a searchable database on the ICAP website, with a web link for each individual entry (the underlying documents are not stored on the ETS Library – it serves as a gateway). The ETS Library currently numbers more than 7,000 entries and will grow over time.

Users can search references using four main filters (called “typologies”) that serve to organize the ETS Library’s entries:

• Systems – including all active and planned ETSs worldwide, as well as aspects of global carbon markets
• ETS design topics – 12 in total, ranging from cap-setting to market stability
• Effects of ETS – 10 in total, such as cost-effectiveness and co-benefits
• Types of information – e.g. legislation and policy recommendations.

Each filter has additional categories and often sub-categories for very refined searches. Filters can be combined with each other as well as with keyword searches, though best results will come from using filters alone. Results can be selected and saved to generate a personalized list of entries and export them as a CSV or PDF file. For more information on how to use the tool, see this short guide.

The ETS Library is now launched in a beta version and will be updated several times a year with new references. As the database expands and the ICAP Secretariat continues to sharpen the computer code that categorizes entries, the ETS Library’s accuracy will improve, generating search results that become even more relevant and refined over time.

The ICAP Secretariat readily welcomes feedback on user experiences, suggested improvements, and references that should be added to the ETS Library. All input can be sent to libraryicapcarbonaction [dot] com (library[at]icapcarbonaction[dot]com).