Methodologies
Develop a New Methodology
Per the Methodology Development and Review Process (MDRP), interested parties may submit proposals for Verra to develop a new or revise an existing methodology, module, or tool. Please note that all draft methodologies and proposed changes are subject to extensive reviews by Verra and independent experts 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 outlines how proposals for new and revised methodologies, modules, or tools must be submitted. Verra reviews each proposal to decide whether to proceed with development, determine its priority, and assess the availability of resources to support it. Priority is given to ideas that have high potential for climate change mitigation, are broadly applicable, support sustainable development, and do not carry unmitigable risks. Verra offers stakeholders the opportunity to contribute to the development of new or revised methodologies.
At the core of Verra’s mission is empowering project developers with resources for advancing effective, scalable solutions that mitigate the impacts of climate change.
You develop the projects; we develop the methodologies that enable the design and implementation of projects that drive climate impact and improve people’s wellbeing.
Verra is looking for funders, technical contributors (paid consultants or those willing to offer in-kind support), and independent expert reviewers to support the development of methodologies in the VCS Program. Your support helps accelerate the publication and development of these methodologies that the world urgently needs.
Contact methodologies@verra.org and indicate the specific Methodology Development ID# and type/level of interest to support our work.
Please note:
- The next Methodology Idea Note (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 on 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 or Verra prepares a methodology idea note. Verra assesses resources required to develop the methodology and establishes collaboration agreements with interested stakeholders.
2
Methodology Concept Note
Verra prepares a concept note with support from technical contributors. The concept note defines the detailed scope and outlines key methodological components of a proposed new methodology or the revision of an existing one.
3
Draft methodology
With support from technical contributors, Verra prepares a draft methodology and quantification spreadsheet. The quantification spreadsheet allows proponents to test the draft methodology with preliminary data.
4
Public Consultation
Verra conducts public consultation of the draft methodology.
5
Independent Expert Review
A group of independent experts reviews the draft methodology.
6
Final Verra Review and Decision
Verra reviews the draft methodology, incorporates relevant feedback from the public consultation and independent expert review, and determines whether the methodology can be approved.