**Please note that this information is out of date; see the Update on Proposed Revisions to VCS AUDD Methodologies, published on 14 February 2023, for more information.**

Verra will phase the transition of projects to a new consolidated REDD methodology. This transition will enable proponents using existing VCS Avoiding Unplanned Deforestation and Degradation (AUDD) project methodologies to familiarize themselves with and plan for the new approach. This staggered timeline also allows Verra to develop and operationalize a new consolidated REDD methodology incorporating the allocation approach.

The goal of adopting the allocation approach is to ensure the integrity of greenhouse gas accounting for individual projects within a jurisdiction and enable the utilization of the most up-to-date science, data, and technologies. The allocation approach is aligned with Verra’s Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework.

During the transition to the new consolidated REDD methodology, Verra will:

  • Strengthen elements of the current VCS AUDD methodologies (VM0006, VM0007, VM0009, VM0015, and VM0037) prior to projects’ mandatory transition to the allocation approach.
  • Continue the development of the new consolidated REDD methodology that will establish robust project baselines consistent with jurisdictional activity data (AD). Verra will do this by finalizing the Avoiding Unplanned Deforestation (AUD) allocation approach modules that were open for consultation in April and May 2022. We will also develop a framework to guide the application of those modules and enable the addition of other REDD project activities over time.

During the transition period, projects may use either of the above approaches.

Implications for Projects

VCS REDD projects may choose to use the consolidated REDD methodology at any time after it is published in 2023. By 31 December 2025, all VCS REDD projects must use this new methodology.

The mandatory deadlines for projects to start using the revised AUD methodologies or the consolidated REDD methodology are as set out in the table below. When reviewing the table, proponents should consider their project’s current status, noting that during the transition period (between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025) a project’s status (and resulting methodology options) may change.

If you have any questions about this phased approach, please see the frequently asked questions or contact Salvador Sánchez Colón, Manager, REDD+ Technical Innovation, (scolon@verra.org). If your question is related to a project listed on the Verra Registry, please provide that project’s identification number in your email.