Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)

The Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), developed and managed by Verra, is the world’s most widely used greenhouse gas (GHG) crediting program. It provides a robust framework for certifying projects that reduce or remove emissions, enabling the issuance of Verified Carbon Units (VCUs)—tradable carbon credits used in voluntary and some compliance markets.

🌱 Key Features of the VCS Program

• Scientific Rigor & Transparency: VCS methodologies are built on detailed protocols that ensure accurate measurement, reporting, and verification of emission reductions.

• Wide Applicability: Covers a broad range of project types including:

  • Reforestation and afforestation

  • Improved forest management

  • Renewable energy

  • Methane capture

  • Soil carbon sequestration

  • REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation)

• Third-Party Verification: All projects must be validated and verified by accredited independent auditors.

• Registry System: Tracks issuance, transfer, and retirement of VCUs to ensure transparency and prevent double counting.

🧾 How It Works

1. Project Design: Developers create a project using an approved VCS methodology.

2. Validation: A third-party auditor confirms the project meets VCS requirements.

3. Monitoring & Reporting: Ongoing data collection to quantify emission reductions.

4. Verification: Auditors verify reported results.

5. Issuance of VCUs: Verra issues carbon credits based on verified reductions.

6. Credit Retirement or Sale: VCUs can be sold or retired to offset emissions.

🌍 Impact and Reach

• Over 1 billion tons of CO₂e have been reduced or removed through VCS-certified projects.

• VCS credits are used by companies, governments, and individuals to meet climate goals.

• Projects often deliver co-benefits like biodiversity protection, community development, and improved livelihoods.

You can explore more on Verra’s official VCS page.