Verra will release a new REDD Methodology in Q3 of 2023 and subsequently transition all projects to it. In the interim, Verra will issue errata and clarifications as well as minor updates to the current VCS Avoiding Unplanned Deforestation and/or Degradation (AUDD) methodologies (VM0006, VM0007, VM0009, VM0015, VM0037).
These changes reflect Verra’s ongoing commitment to align methodologies with current best practices and to ensure that methodologies are applied consistently. The changes include:
- Revised methods for projecting deforestation rates and incorporation of statistical requirements for the use of historical deforestation trends;
- Standardized duration of historical reference periods as per the VCS Methodology Requirements; and
- Revised methods for producing conservatively estimated baselines and emission reductions, considering the accuracy, bias, and uncertainty of activity data and emission factors estimates.
The Preliminary Summary of Errata and Clarifications and Minor Revisions to AUDD Methodologies provides an overview of these changes. We anticipate publishing these updates in March.
Verra will not apply standardized revisions to the VCS AUDD methodologies. Verra thanks all stakeholders who provided input in our October 2022 consultation on these proposed revisions. The Summary of Comments lists the feedback we received during this consultation.
If you have questions about Verra’s AUDD methodologies, please contact Salvador Sánchez Colón, Manager, REDD+ Technical Innovation (scolon@verra.org).