Gold Standard (GS)

What is the Gold Standard?

Gold Standard was established in 2003 by WWF and other international NGOs as a best practice standard to ensure projects that reduced carbon emissions featured the highest levels of environmental integrity and contributed to sustainable development. It ensures that carbon offset projects not only reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but also contribute meaningfully to sustainable development goals (SDGs). The standard is trusted globally for its environmental integrity, social impact, and rigorous certification process.

Gold Standard-certified projects span various sectors, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, reforestation, clean cooking, water access, and waste management. Every project must deliver verified emission reductions and demonstrate positive impacts on local communities and ecosystems.

Gold Standard requires independent third-party validation and verification, ensuring transparency, accountability, and credibility in the issuance of Verified Emission Reductions each representing one metric ton of CO₂ equivalent avoided or removed. BM Certification is an approved Validation and Verification Body (VVB) that performs Validation and Verification, supporting the integrity and quality of Gold Standard-certified projects.

Why Should You Implement the Gold Standard?

✅ High Environmental Integrity: Gold Standard projects are held to stringent environmental and social safeguards, maximizing real, measurable climate benefits.
✅ Positive Community Impact: Projects must demonstrate contributions to at least three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that local communities benefit directly.
✅ Support for Net-Zero Goals: Organizations can use Gold Standard credits to offset residual emissions while promoting sustainable development.
✅ Market Credibility: Gold Standard is highly regarded in both voluntary and compliance markets, enhancing reputational value and stakeholder confidence.
✅ Alignment with Global Frameworks: The standard is designed to align with frameworks like the Paris Agreement and UN SDGs, making it relevant for forward-thinking climate strategies.

Why Choose BM Certification?

• Approved Gold Standard VVB – BM Certification is an approved Validation and Verification Body (VVB) for the Gold Standard, authorized to conduct independent assessments that ensure the credibility of emission reductions and sustainable development outcomes.
• Sector-Specific Knowledge– We have experienced internal and expert auditors for the accredited scopes.
• Transparent & Efficient Process– Our streamlined validation and verification approach ensures compliance with GS timelines and requirements.
• Commitment to Quality– We uphold the highest standards of accuracy, impartiality, and integrity in every assessment.

Our Accredited Sectoral Scopes