We are pleased to announce the development of the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta). SD VISta is intended to address the challenges of consistently and transparently assessing and communicating the economic, social and environmental impacts of projects supported by companies, NGOs, investors, development finance institutions (DFIs) and other stakeholders.

Building on our experience in developing and managing the Verified Carbon Standard and Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standards, SD VISta will deepen and broaden our offering to stakeholders that wish to demonstrate the sustainable development benefits of site-based activities in all sectors.

We envision that sustainable development impacts across two primary dimensions will be assessed under SD VISta: first, benefits flowing to disadvantaged, poor, marginalized or vulnerable people, and second, the maintenance of natural capital and ecosystem services for current and future generations. SD VISta will be a tool for actors seeking to ensure that projects meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Play a role in shaping SD VISta

Members of the SD VISta Standard Development Advisory Committee will ensure the standard adds real value and drives new finance to high impact sustainable development projects. The Advisory Committee will provide strategic input and guidance on the content of the standard and review drafts before they are put to the public. It will convene (online/via teleconference) four times during the next 18 months. Applications will be open through 25 August 2017.

Please contact Julianne Baroody, Manager, Sustainable Development, with any questions at jbaroody@verra.org.