Validation and Verification Bodies, also referred to as Certification Bodies, play an independent role in the Oncra certification process. They assess whether projects meet the requirements of the Oncra Guidelines, the applicable Protocols and the relevant certification rules.
Validation focuses on the project plan. It checks whether the project is designed correctly, whether the submitted information is complete, and whether the project can proceed under the Oncra framework. Verification focuses on the actual results. It checks whether the monitored carbon removal has taken place and whether the reported data supports the issuance of Delivered Units.
Oncra only works with Certification Bodies that meet the required standards for accreditation, competence, independence and impartiality. Certification Bodies must be able to assess carbon removal projects, greenhouse gas accounting, monitoring data, additionality, baselines and relevant environmental and social requirements. They must also follow Oncra’s conflict of interest requirements.
Organisations or qualified individuals that want to become recognised as a Validation and Verification Body under the Oncra framework can apply through the procedures described in the Guidelines.
More information can be found in the Oncra Guidelines on the requirements, accreditation and procedures for Certification Bodies.
The currently accepted Validation & Verification Bodies are:
Validation & Verification Bodies that are in the process of acceptance by Oncra:
The active version of the verification template can be accessed here.