Verra is preparing to launch version 1.0 phase 1 of the Scope 3 Standard (S3S) Program in Q3 2026. This initial version of the program will enable project pipeline listing with an initial set of S3S-adapted methodologies.

The expected release date is slightly later than previously indicated, which is the result of our continued diligent technical development of the program and stakeholder engagement. This additional time will allow the team to enhance program interoperability, incorporate learnings from pilots, refine program rules and tools, develop robust infrastructure and project proponent trainings, and ensure a strong foundation for a broader market uptake.

Crucially, the later launch also enables alignment with version 5 of the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program, released in December 2025. It also ensures that the S3S Program is compatible with the following new and pending releases from key external initiatives:

  • Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP): Land Sector and Removals Standard
  • Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi): Corporate Net-Zero Standard, version 2
  • Advanced and Indirect Mitigation (AIM) Platform: Intervention Quality, Accounting, and Reporting Standard
  • Taskforce for Corporate Action Transparency (TCAT): Mitigation Action Accounting and Reporting Guidance

In 2025, Verra’s S3S Program moved from design to development. The team ran the first public consultation, implemented real-world pilots to adapt VCS methodologies for S3S Program use, and established core documentation, governance, and funding structures. This created a strong foundation for a S3S Program that is robust, usable, and aligned with evolving best practices.

We are continuing this development work in close collaboration with ongoing pilots, corporate users, and external thought partners, including the Value Change Initiative (VCI) and SustainCERT. Insights from these engagements directly inform the final development of our program design, tools, and guidance, as well as the long-term vision of delivering a credible, scalable S3S Program that builds on the foundations of the VCS Program to enable large-scale value chain decarbonization.

RESOURCES

We will publish S3S Program FAQs and related program updates to our website by April 1 to reflect the latest information on program scope, development timeline and sequencing (including clarifications on the various versions), participation pathways, and how the program fits within the broader landscape of Scope 3 accounting and reporting initiatives. We will keep these FAQs updated as the program continues to evolve.

We will continue to share updates as we reach key milestones in 2026. Future communications will provide more detail around onboarding, participation requirements, and supporting guidance as the launch of version 1.0 phase 1 approaches.

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To stay up to date on details related to the upcoming release and implementation of the S3S Program, please sign up for our S3S Program mailing list.

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