Methodologies
Technical frameworks for trusted credits
Our methodologies define the technical rules for certifying outcomes across carbon, biodiversity, and circular economy programmes. Grounded in science and aligned with international best practices, they ensure every credit is robust, transparent, and trusted.
Why our methodologies matter
Our methodologies turn climate and nature action into trusted credits. They are:
Practical
designed for real-world projects in diverse contexts
Credible
aligned with international best practices and integrity frameworks
Transparent
published in full and open to stakeholder consultation
Inclusive
shaped by Global South realities, national contexts, and developer needs
Explore approved methodologies
Carbon programme
Avoided Deforestation
Certifies emission reductions from preventing planned or unplanned deforestation, with options for grouped projects and jurisdictional nesting.
Integrated Forestry & Agriculture
Credits outcomes from combining forest conservation or restoration with sustainable agriculture, including agroforestry systems.
Renewable Energy
Covers solar, wind, hydro, and other clean energy projects that displace fossil fuels.
Landfill Gas Capture & Flaring
Credits methane capture at landfills, with reductions achieved through flaring or conversion to energy.
End-of-Life Vehicles Recycling
Certifies recovery and reuse of vehicle components and materials to reduce demand for virgin resources.
Biodiversity programme
Indicator Species Biodiversity
Measures biodiversity outcomes by tracking indicator species and habitat quality.
Circular economy programme
Circular Recovery & Recycling
CDM methodologies
Cercarbono approves the use of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) methodologies that align with our integrity framework and technical principles. Although these methodologies are not developed by Cercarbono, they are authorized for use within our certification processes.
Avoided Deforestation
Integrated Forestry & Agriculture
Indicator Species Biodiversity
Circular Recovery & Recycling
Renewable Energy
Landfill Gas Capture & Flaring
End-of-Life Vehicles Recycling
Energy Industries
Manufacturing
Transport
Waste Management
Land Use & Forestry
Land Use & Forestry
Fugitive Emissions
Agriculture
Submitting a new methodology
We welcome new proposals. Every methodology goes through a clear approval process
Initial assessment template
structure your proposal in line with requirements
Formal submission
submit your methodology for review
Independent review & consultation
proposals undergo technical review and public consultation before approval