Sandbag Climate Campaign

Sandbag Climate Campaign is a non-profit think tank based in Brussels, Belgium, dedicated to advocating for ambitious climate policies through rigorous data analysis. Established in 2008 in London, Sandbag initially focused on identifying and addressing flaws within the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), particularly the surplus of carbon allowances. In 2013, the organization expanded its influence by opening an office in Brussels, and by 2018, it officially became a Belgian non-profit organization (Association Sans But Lucratif – ASBL) with the registration number 0707.935.890. Following Brexit in 2019, the UK-based entity was renamed Ember, concentrating on energy issues, while Sandbag continued to focus on EU climate policies, including the EU ETS and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Sandbag's mission is to promote more effective climate policies from both environmental and economic perspectives. The organization believes that, when designed correctly, carbon pricing can be highly effective for certain sectors. By utilizing data-driven research, Sandbag aims to create evidence-based campaigns that advocate for robust carbon pricing and emissions trading systems. The organization emphasizes that climate policies should make polluting goods more expensive and low-carbon alternatives more competitive, thereby creating the right incentives across the economy for both producers and consumers. Additionally, Sandbag argues that climate policies should discourage unsustainable economic activities, advocating for the abolition of free allocation of emission permits in the EU ETS and supporting mechanisms like the CBAM to prevent unfair competition from regions without carbon pricing. The team at Sandbag comprises specialists with over 20 years of experience in carbon markets, industry, finance, and climate policy. This expertise enables the organization to provide unique perspectives on climate policies and anticipate future challenges. For instance, Sandbag identified the "CBAM scrap loophole" as early as February 2023, a concern that was later addressed in December 2025 by a European Commission proposal to include pre-consumer scrap within the CBAM's scope. Through quantitative and qualitative research, interactive policy simulation tools, and targeted advocacy, Sandbag promotes policies that drive impactful and cost-effective emissions reductions in the EU and beyond. The organization contributes to European Commission Expert Groups, responds to stakeholder surveys, public consultations, and calls for evidence, and engages with policymakers at various levels, including the EU Commission, EU Parliament, and Member States. Sandbag also collaborates with civil society and private stakeholders, participates in public events, builds coalitions with progressive private sector entities, and raises awareness through media and social media channels. Sandbag's work is supported by foundation grants and individual donations from those who share its commitment to advancing evidence-based climate policies. Past supporters include the European Climate Foundation, the Energy Foundation China, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, the Environmental Defense Fund, the French Ministry of the Environment, and the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ). All financial surpluses are reinvested into the organization to further its mission. Sandbag's office is located at Mundo Matogné, Rue d’Edimbourg 26, Ixelles 1050, Belgium. The organization is registered in the EU Transparency Register under the number 277895137794-73, with VAT number BE0707935890.