On January 1, 2026, Verra will open the Nature Framework certification process to all projects. This signals the full operationalization of the Nature Framework, an asset methodology under the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) Program. During the initial rollout phase, only Nature Framework pilots were able to initiate certification.
Launched in October 2024, the Nature Framework, v1.0 enables projects to quantify biodiversity outcomes and generate Nature Credits, incentivizing widespread investment in measurable conservation and restoration activities benefiting both nature and people.
Throughout 2025, Verra implemented key operational elements for the methodology, such as publishing requirements for Nature Framework validation/verification bodies (VVBs) and approving the first Nature Framework VVBs, establishing a Technical Expert Panel to support high-integrity project reviews, and developing a digital-first project description template.
Project proponents intending to pursue Nature Framework certification (particularly those intending to initiate the process in 2026) should complete the Expression of Interest form by January 31, 2026. The form captures information that will help Verra estimate the volume and maturity of incoming Nature Framework project submissions and ensure Technical Expert Panel capacity.
Project proponents should also refer to the Nature Framework templates, which can be found under “Templates and Forms” on the SD VISta Program Details page of Verra’s website. Note that the Nature Framework‘s digital-first approach means templates must be submitted online through the Verra Project Hub, but the hard copy versions are available to support projects’ development process.
About Nature Credits
Over half of global gross domestic product relies on nature and its ecosystem services, while biodiversity loss is an urgent and persistent crisis. In 2022, the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) called for mobilizing $200 billion annually from all sources, including innovative mechanisms such as biodiversity credits. With increasing attention from policymakers (external), Nature Credits have emerged as a forward-looking financial instrument for valuing and protecting biodiversity.
Under Verra’s Nature Framework, Nature Credits help to strategically bridge the gap between economic growth and ecological health. Nature Framework projects will protect and restore biodiversity, safeguard habitats and communities, and generate financial returns for conservation practitioners, communities, and investors. Projects using Verra’s Nature Framework support a nature-positive future.
Interested stakeholders can see an overview of the Nature Framework‘s approach to generating Nature Credits in this summary flyer (PDF). Using the methodology, project proponents can quantify and verify biodiversity outcomes to issue tradable assets, known as Nature Credits. The purchase of such credits allows companies, financial institutions, public entities, and individuals to invest in third-party-certified initiatives that halt and reverse nature’s degradation. In return, investors can support long-term ecosystem resilience on which businesses and economies depend, benefit from reduced environmental and operational risks, credibly enhance their reputations, and promote high-integrity social safeguards.