Revision to VM0036: Methodology for Rewetting Drained Temperate and Boreal Peatlands, v1.0

VM0036 v1.0 outlines procedures to estimate the reduction of net GHG emissions resulting from project activities implemented to rewet drained peatlands in temperate climatic regions. It allows for the estimation of GHG emissions from drained and rewetted peatlands and accounts for changes in carbon stocks in selected non-peat carbon pools.

The proposed revision extends the applicability to boreal peatlands. Other proposed changes include:

• Applying IPCC Wetland Supplement defaults as baseline parameters for calculating emission reductions in temperate and boreal zones,
• Applying IPCC Wetland Supplement emission factors for project scenario emissions and removals,
• Adopting an activity method and developing a positive list for Nordic countries,
• Improving the readability of VM0036.

The proposed methodology is being developed by Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) (opens on external site). On December 19, 2024, the development of this methodology was put on hold. Verra will consider resuming the development once the following criteria are met:

• Risks related to updating the additionality and baseline setting approach can be addressed
• Resources are available to support the methodology development process
• The development process can be prioritized over other VCS methodology development work according to the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process.

Verra will reassess in Q1 2026 whether these criteria are being met and whether development of this methodology should be resumed.

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# CN0100 in the subject line.