Verra is not scrapping its REDD methodologies.
An update to our approach to REDD has been subject to consultation for many years. A key outcome of the latest consultation, which took place a year ago, was to bring forward release of the update to July-September 2023. Existing REDD projects will use this update when data for their respective jurisdictions are available and approved.
All of these decisions were made before the Guardian’s reporting, which Verra addressed separately in a statement published on 18 January and subsequent technical review.
The work on our REDD methodologies is consistent with Verra’s efforts to constantly improve its standards across a range of climate and sustainable development activities, by consulting with experts with a wide range of views. Verra then develops consensus solutions.
There are always critics, and their voices are heard within the consultations, but the process is robust and transparent. It is designed to deliver ever-higher standards and integrity.
We are proud of our work on REDD, which has been vital in addressing deforestation, restoring biodiversity, and delivering on governments’ climate commitments under the Paris agreement.