Verra is advancing the development of a module that utilizes digital soil mapping technology to quantify soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks. The Module for Quantifying Organic Carbon Stocks Using Digital Soil Mapping: Calibration, Validation, and Uncertainty Estimation (methodology development ID# CN0137) is primarily intended for use with VM0042 Methodology for Improved Agricultural Land Management, v2.0 in the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program.
SOC quantification using digital soil mapping technology, which leverages soil sampling, remote sensing, and other environmental data sources to map SOC at high resolution, is critical to reducing the costs associated with the implementation and scaling up of Agricultural Land Management (ALM) projects. Compared with traditional soil sampling methods, digital soil mapping allows for broader spatial coverage, improved spatial resolution and precision, and increased cost-effectiveness, among other benefits. By progressing with the development of this module, Verra aims to provide the market with an innovative, robust approach to quantifying SOC stock changes.
Perennial Climate Inc. (external) is leading on the development of this module. As a next step, Perennial will convene a multidisciplinary working group to support the development of the draft module, per Step 3 of the Methodology Development Review Process, v4.3 (PDF). The group will assess the module’s scientific credibility, practical applications, and technological readiness for implementation in the VCS Program. The working group will consist of project proponents, validation/verification bodies (VVBs), and scientists from the private and public sectors. A Verra representative will participate as an observer. Participation in the working group is by invitation only, and selections have already been made. Verra will provide feedback on the draft module during the review phase, in accordance with Section 3 of the Methodology Development and Review Process, v4.3.