Minor Revision to VMD0055 Estimation of Emission Reductions from Avoiding Unplanned Deforestation, v1.0

VMD0055, v1.0 describes the procedures and methods for accounting for the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions from projects that aim to avoid unplanned deforestation. This module must be used with VM0048 Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation.

The proposed revision to VMD0055 will

• add forest management activities (e.g., projects that harvest trees to generate income, fiber, or fuel) in the project scenario;
• ensure full alignment of VMD0055 with VT0007 Unplanned Deforestation Allocation (UDef-A), v1.0, and the process for data allocation to projects;
• clarify the distinction between mandatory and optional carbon sources and pools;
• clarify spatial resolution and mapping requirements, mapping terminology, and the scope of the Jurisdictional Sampling Frame;
• clarify the duration for which a project can use allocated activity data; and
• correct minor editorial/typographical errors.

The revision will follow an alternative process, as per Section 2.1.2 of the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process, v4.4 (PDF). Verra is leading and authoring the revisions. The revision is currently at “Step 3: Draft Methodology Development” of the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process, v4.4 (PDF).

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# M0298 in the subject line.

This minor revision will be completed before the first jurisdictional deforestation data are released, which is expected to start in Q3 2024.