Since 2004, the Gold Standard has prevailed as the benchmark certification scheme for quality and rigor for renewable energy, energy efficiency and waste management carbon projects in the compliance and voluntary carbon markets. The standard is endorsed by over eighty NGOs worldwide. Considering the interest of its members in land-based offsets that are linked to FSC-certification and Fairtrade agricultural production, the Gold Standard Foundation aims to expand its scope to a holistic landscape management approach including forestry and climate-smart agriculture. Due to UNIQUE’s extensive experience in developing and implementing innovative climate mitigation response measures in the forestry and agricultural sectors, UNIQUE was contracted to support the development of the new “Land Use & Forests” framework of the Gold Standard Foundation.

• Support of the Gold Standard “Land Use & Forests” framework development.
• Strategic input to the Gold Standard Advisory Panel and stakeholder consultations.
• Background analyses for stakeholder consultations and Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
• Analyses of social and environmental impacts.
• Analyses of additionality, non-permanence approaches and certification procedures.
• Support development of new carbon accounting methodologies.