Methodologies
Develop a New Methodology
Per the Methodology Development and Review Process (MDRP), interested parties may choose to develop a new methodology, tool, or module, or revise an existing one. Please note that all draft methodologies and proposed changes are subject to extensive reviews and stakeholder consultation to determine (1) if they meet the rules and requirements of the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program and (2) whether the development process can proceed.
The MDRP indicates how proposals for new and revised methodologies, modules, or tools shall be submitted. Verra will conduct a review and determine whether or not the development should proceed, its priority level, and the most efficient pathway for development. Priority is given to ideas that are broadly applicable, have high potential for climate change mitigation, support sustainable development, and are not associated with unmitigable social, environmental, legal, or regulatory risks.
Please note: Verra is currently updating the MDRP and recently hosted a public consultation to solicit feedback on the proposed updates. One suggested update is to formally establish a periodic review cycle for MINs instead of a continuous review process, which will allow Verra to effectively advance impactful climate action by delivering on priority methodologies that are under development.
- On December 19, 2024, Verra announced the Deadline for New VCS Methodology Development Proposals of January 31, 2025. Verra will review MINs submitted by January 31, 2025, by March 31, 2025.
- The next MIN submission deadline is January 31, 2026. Verra will review MINs submitted before that date by March 31, 2026. At Verra’s discretion, out-of-cycle MIN reviews may be considered for proposals that strengthen integrity, build onto existing methodology development or update processes, or align with Verra’s top priorities. Verra encourages stakeholders to submit MINs at any time during the submission cycle.
Process Steps
The following high-level steps explain the methodology development process:
1
Methodology Idea Note
Stakeholder submits a methodology idea note; Verra reviews to determine priority and the appropriate development pathway.
2
Methodology Concept Note
Methodology developer submits a methodology concept note; Verra reviews.
3
Draft methodology
Methodology developer submits the draft methodology, methodology revision, module, or tool, and draft project description (if applicable); Verra reviews.
4
Public Consultation
Verra conducts public consultation of the draft methodology.
5
Verification / Validation Body
Methodology developer contracts a VVB; VVB assess the new or revised methodology, module, or tool, and produces an assessment report
6
Final Verra Review and Decision
Verra reviews the assessment report and determines if the methodology can be approved.