The establishment of effective market-based trading systems for greenhouse gas emissions by businesses that are demonstrably fair, open, efficient, accountable and consistent across national boundaries; and maintaining societal equity and environmental integrity while establishing these systems.

IETA will work for the development of an active, global greenhouse gas market, consistent across national boundaries and involving all flexibility mechanisms: the Clean Development Mechanism, Joint Implementation and emissions trading; and the creation of systems and instruments that will ensure effective business participation.

To be the premier voice for the business community on emissions trading, the objectives for the organization are to promote an integrated view of the emissions trading system as a solution to Climate Change; participate in the design and implementation of national and international rules and guidelines; and provide the most up-to-date and credible source of information on emissions trading and greenhouse gas market activity.

As of February 2008, IETA comprises 176 International Companies from OECD and non-OECD countries.

StatoilHydro is a member company of IETA.