Standard Documentation

Standard Rules

We are pleased to announce that the most up-to-date version of the Standard Rules we're currently following is Version 5.2. This iteration represents our continued commitment to enhancing the scientific basis and transparency of the certification process.

By consistently updating our rules, we aim to ensure the highest integrity for projects under our purview.

As always, we are deeply appreciative of the community's feedback and collaboration. We aim to ensure that the Riverse Standard remains compliant with the highest requirements of integrity and quality that are being set in the voluntary carbon market.

Feedback form

Historical Versions of the Standard Rules:

Document

Description

Standard Rules V5

May 2023

Version 5 of the Riverse Standard Rules

Standard Rules V4

September 2022

Version 4 of the Riverse Standard Rules

Standard Rules V3

May 2022

Version 3 of the Riverse Standard Rules

Standard Rules V2

December 2021

Version 2 of the Riverse Standard Rules

Standard Rules V1

March 2021

Version 1 of the Riverse Standard Rules

Public consultations

There are currently no open public consultations.

Would you like to be notified of future consultations? Please contact us.

Public consultations, when held, are open for a minimum of 30 days. All relevant details can be accessed on our website, and the results of these consultations are displayed on the designated page.

Previous public consultations documentation:

Document

Description

Collected Comments and Responses

May 2023

Comments collected during the Public consultation for the V5 of the Riverse Standard Rules - and answers from the Riverse Standard team

Webinar Presentation

May 2023

Webinar presentation to introduce the Public Consultation for Riverse Standard Rules V5

Methodologies

The Riverse standard issues science-driven credits, signifying genuine CO2 that has either been prevented from entering or actively removed from the atmosphere. Beyond CO2 mitigation, we also ensure that projects deliver additional positive environmental and social impacts, without instigating any adverse effects. Our validation process mandates a scientific evaluation and quantification of the carbon reductions, from cradle-to-grave.

By updating and sharing our methodologies, we aim to ensure the highest integrity for projects.

Document

Description

Biogas from anaerobic digestion

Date

This methodology covers projects producing biogas through anaerobic digestion. Most projects here use agricultural waste as a main input. This offers a low-impact energy alternative to fossil fuels, and allows for the circular use of agri-food waste.
(Current version: v2.2)

BECCS and biochar

Date

This methodology, tailored to processes including pyrolysis and gasification, focuses on projects creating energy while simultaneously sequestering carbon in biochar (or bio-oil). Projects are usually optimized for producing one or the other, and either setup is eligible.
(Current version: v1.0)

Reconditioning of electronic devices

Date

Addressing the mounting e-waste challenge, this methodology emphasizes projects reconditioning and refurbishing electronic devices. By giving devices a second life, we avoid the production of a new device, and reduce potentially harmful e-waste.
(Current version: v1.2)

Biobased construction materials

Date

This methodology focuses on projects producing construction materials derived from renewable biological resources. Accounting for full life cycle emissions and biogenic carbon storage, it guides projects on precise removal calculations.
(Current version: v1.1)

Battery second-life

Date

Methodology under development - to be published

Standard reference documents

Disputes and grievances

Document

Description

Conflict of interest policy

Date

Template for the Conflict of Interest (COI) policy signed by Riverse Standard and Riverse Ecosystem members subject to COI, to ensure all new members respect Riverse’s independence

Complaints and appeal policy

Date

The Complaints and Appeals Policy ensures fair and transparent procedures for addressing grievances and contesting decisions related to carbon credit certification, fostering trust and accountability in the certification process.

Terms or reference

Document

Description

Standard Advisory Board

Date

Terms of Reference for the Riverse Standard Advisory Board

Technical Advisory Committee

Date

Terms of Reference for the Riverse Technical Advisory Committee

Procedures

Procedures Manual V1 - October 2023

Document

Description

Procedures Manual V1

October 2023

This manual describes the rules and procedures for registering and operating Riverse projects and issuing Riverse Carbon Credits (RCC).
It should be used together with the latest versions of the Riverse Standard Rules, Sector-specific Methodologies, and Validation and Verification Body Requirements
(Current version: v1.0)

KYC & Fees

Document

Description

Riverse Know Your Customer (KYC) Policy

Date

The KYC policy ensures rigorous identity verification of all participants in carbon credit transactions, maintaining legal compliance and safeguarding against fraud and financial risks.

Riverse Standard and Registry Fees

Date

Overview of certification and credit issuance fees associated with the Riverse Standard and Tech Infrastructure.

Validation and Verification Bodies

Document

Description

VVB accreditation process

Date

Guidelines outlining the criteria and process for VVB accreditation under the Riverse Standard.

VVB application form

Date

Application form for entities seeking accreditation as VVBs under the Riverse Standard.

Guidance for Validation and Verification Bodies

Date

The aim of this document is to present guidelines for Validation and Verification Bodies (VVBs) for conducting comprehensive evaluations of greenhouse gas emission avoidance and/or removals of project developers under the Riverse Standard. This document delineates the standards and procedures necessary for ensuring compliance with the Riverse Standard Rules.