Verra has issued a request for proposals (RFP) (PDF) for a select number of data service providers (DSPs) to produce additional jurisdictional activity data (AD), forest cover benchmark maps (FCBMs), and allocated deforestation risk maps for projects using Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) methodology VM0048 Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, v1.0, and the associated module VMD0055 Estimation of Emission Reductions from Avoiding Unplanned Deforestation, v1.1.
The resulting VMD0055-compliant allocated deforestation risk maps will then be used by project proponents to set project baselines.
Verra is currently working with DSPs to develop VMD0055-compliant allocated deforestation risk maps for the first rounds of jurisdictions. (See Allocated Deforestation Risk Maps: Timetable for details.) Verra now seeks to engage DSPs to develop data for additional jurisdictions and for jurisdictions where the baseline validity period (BVP) is expiring in the coming years.
Verra will contract a pre-approved pool of two to four DSPs through non-exclusive long-term agreements (LTAs) for the development of the aforementioned data. Each selected DSP will develop activity data, forest cover benchmark maps, and risk maps for a select number of jurisdictions, as determined by Verra in consultation with the DSPs.
The DSPs and Verra will each receive a portion of the Project Activity Data Allocation (PADA) fee. The complete terms of the revenue-sharing plan will be defined in collaboration with the selected DSPs prior to entering into the LTAs. The revenue-sharing structure will be the same for all selected DSPs.
For more information and application instructions, please see the RFP. Project proponents are not eligible to apply.
The deadline to apply is May 9, 2025. Intention to submit a proposal must be sent by April 18 to forestcarbon@verra.org. Verra expects to finalize the selection of DSPs by the end of Q2 2025.
Note: Verra’s approach to providing allocated baselines for VCS Avoided Unplanned Deforestation (AUD) projects under VM0048 and VMD0055 is not intended to replace or question government Forest Reference Emission Levels (FRELs). In implementing this approach to baseline setting, Verra and DSPs use official data where possible and share all final data with relevant government agencies.