A brand new methodology called the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Methodology VM0049 Carbon Capture and Storage, has been released by Verra. This methodology is dedicated to activities that capture carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere and/or high-emitting industrial sources. These activities are often followed by things such as transportation when the process requires it and the captured carbon is also often placed into permanent safe storage underground.

This innovative methodology has already become globally applicable when it comes to technology-based CCS activities which generate carbon dioxide removals (CDRs), as well as emission reductions.

The VM0049 methodology outlines the predominant requirements for CCS projects and the first step of the process, involves the projects choosing from a set of modules which are suitable for different CO2 capture, transport and storage activities, which quantify the CDRs and emission reductions they generate. As there are so many options, the modules can be combined to suit a project’s specific design or technical needs and furthermore, this modular design is adaptive to project expansions, as well as the development of shared infrastructure, plus future innovations.

Whilst there are several other modules currently under developments, Verra is expecting the first batch of modules to be ready and released within the next few months. This batch will cover, direct air capture, transportation of CO2 and finally, storage of CO2 in saline aquifers and depleted oil and gas reservoirs.