VERRA

Verra is a leading non-profit organization that develops and manages global standards for climate action and sustainable development. The most widely recognized among Verra’s programs is the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), which sets the benchmark for certifying carbon emission reduction projects around the world.

Verra’s standards are used by governments, businesses, and environmental organizations to demonstrate the integrity of their sustainability and carbon mitigation initiatives. These standards ensure that emission reductions, removals, and sustainable development outcomes are real, measurable, additional, and verified by independent third parties.

The Verra programs are designed to:

  • Support high-quality climate action and carbon market projects.
  • Drive investment in projects that reduce emissions, restore ecosystems, or improve livelihoods.
  • Ensure transparency, credibility, and third-party verification of environmental and social benefits.
  • Promote alignment with global goals such as the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Verra Certification Programs

The most prominent standards and programs under Verra include:

  • Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) – the world’s most widely used greenhouse gas (GHG) crediting program.
  • Climate, Community & Biodiversity Standards (CCB) – For land-based carbon projects with community and biodiversity co-benefits.
  • Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) – For projects contributing to the SDGs.
  • Plastic Waste Reduction Standard (Plastic Program) – To address plastic leakage and pollution.

These programs can be applied to a wide range of activities including forest conservation (REDD+), agriculture, renewable energy, waste management, and improved land use.

Who Needs Verra Certification?

Verra certification is highly relevant for:

  • Project developers seeking to issue verified carbon credits.
  • Forestry and land-use organizations involved in REDD+ or ecosystem restoration.
  • Agribusinesses and industrial sectors with emission reduction initiatives
  • Investors or donors funding climate mitigation or biodiversity projects.
  • ESG-driven corporations needing credible carbon offsets or supply chain sustainability reporting.

If your organization is planning or managing a project that aims to reduce emissions or deliver environmental and social benefits, contact us to help you achieve your goals.

Standards and Guidelines