The minute
- Registry and serial number: without a public, traceable retirement, do not count it as an offset
- Independent rating: BeZero, Sylvera or Calyx Global; an unrated project needs a reason
- Vintage and permanence: recent vintages price higher, and forest projects need a buffer pool
Why it matters: The question the press and your clients ask is not how much you offset. It is which project you bought.
The checklist
1. Registry: the credit sits in a recognised registry (Verra, Gold Standard and peers) and the retirement is public, with a serial number in the buyer’s name. 2. Independent quality rating. 3. Vintage and permanence. 4. Additionality: the project exists because of carbon revenue. 5. Co-benefits verified, not just promised.
What not to look at
Marketplace badges, startup awards and directory seals replace none of the five checks above.