Methodology for Using Photocatalysts to Remove Atmospheric Nitrous Oxide

The proposed methodology applies to project activities removing N₂O from the atmosphere via the deployment of advanced titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-based photocatalysts on crop leaves. Project proponents can apply the photocatalyst in their practices that will remove N₂O from the atmosphere. Crop Intellect Ltd has a product approved for use in the US, UK, and European Union called R-Leaf®, where photocatalysts are altered through a specialized process selective for N₂O gas and have been formulated in a simple-to-use tank-mixed formula with other inputs sprayed on plant leaves or any other surface area. The methodology can also be used by projects based on other photocatalytic technologies, equipment, or systems that remove N₂O.

• The methodology was proposed by Crop Intellect under an older version of the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process (MDRP) (PDF).
• In November 2023, the development of this methodology was put on hold, pending the following:
  • Peer-reviewed, in-situ studies supporting the theoretical emissions reduction claims
  • Peer-reviewed research demonstrating TiO2-doped photocatalyst particles larger than 1μm will not pose risks of bioaccumulation in both human and nonhuman biota
  • Alternative methods for project proponents to monitor greenhouse gas emissions reduction and removal (GHG ERR) quantifications
• In March 2026, Verra reassessed the priority of methodologies under development and decided to keep this proposal on hold.
• Verra will reassess whether to resume the development of this methodology in Q3 2027

Stakeholders interested in collaborating during methodology development or developing projects that this methodology might enable are encouraged to contact methodologies@verra.org. Please include the Methodology Development ID# M0217 in the subject line.