Verification Body
An independent third-party organization that audits carbon projects and claims. Usually accredited under ISO 14065 or other standard-setting body.
What is a Verification Body?
A verification body (or validation/verification body, VVB) is an independent, accredited third-party organization that critically assesses and confirms the accuracy, completeness, and adherence to established standards of a carbon project's reported greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions or removals. They play a crucial role in the MRV (Monitoring, Reporting, Verification) process.
Why is a Verification Body important?
A verification body is important because it provides independent assurance and credibility to carbon projects and their climate claims. Their impartial assessment ensures that the reported emission reductions or removals are real, measurable, additional, and permanent, thereby building trust among buyers and stakeholders in carbon markets.
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Frequently asked questions
Validation is the assessment performed *before* a project starts or early in its life to confirm its design adheres to the chosen standard. Verification is the assessment performed *periodically after* the project has started to confirm actual GHG reductions/removals and adherence to the monitoring plan.
Verification bodies are typically accredited by national or international accreditation bodies (e.g., ANSI National Accreditation Board - ANAB, UKAS) against international standards like ISO 14065.
No, to maintain independence and avoid conflicts of interest, a verification body cannot also be the project developer or directly involved in the project's implementation.