Lesson 1, Topic 1
In Progress

Methodologies

Why do you need a specific methodology?

Prior to starting the certification journey, it is required to identify an eligible Impact Quantification Methodology for Gold Standard for the Global Goal. This step needs to be done by the Project Developer on its own or with the help of a carbon consultant.
The methodologies are framework documents that define the scope, applicability, and parameters used for the quantification and certification of real GHG Emissions Reductions along the different eligible project types.

During the methodology identification there can occur three possible scenarios:
The Project Developer finds a methodology that fits their project idea. Then you can start with the Gold Standard certification process. Carbon credits follow a binary process, requiring project developers to either adopt a pre-approved Gold Standard methodology or develop a new one. You can explore all the approved methodologies available for project developers here:

Gold Standard Methodology Concept Note – Gold Standard for the Global Goals

The Project Developer finds a methodology that fits partially their project idea, but not completely. Then the PD will have to submit a Methodology Deviation request on that methodology. The first step is to submit a Methodology Concept Note.

  1. If the PD does not find any eligible methodology suitable for their project idea, then they will need to Develop a New Methodology. The first step of this process is to submit a Methodology Concept Note, which is an eligibility check. This means that the Gold Standard Secretariat will assess the eligibility of the new methodology.

Gold Standard Methodology Concept Note – Gold Standard for the Global Goals

Selection of Approved methodology

The complete methodology development process consists of the following steps:

1.  Step 1: Eligibility Check

2.  Step 2: Methodology draft preparation and submission

3.  Step 3: Secretariat review and selection of reviewers

4.  Step 4: External and internal review

5.  Step 5: Stakeholder consultation

6.  Step 6: TAC review

Eligibility Check