| Code | VM0044 |
|---|---|
| Name | Methodology for Biochar Utilization in Soil and Non-Soil Applications |
| Current version | v1.2, active since 27 June 2025 |
| CCP (ICVCM) | Version 1.2 approved by the ICVCM on 24 July 2025. Decision |
| Official page | Verra |
| Verified on | 12 October 2026 |
What it is
VM0044 credits removals from turning waste biomass into biochar at new production facilities, used in soil or in products such as concrete. It applies globally.
Version 1.2 added a mandatory investment analysis to demonstrate additionality.
Version and status
- Active, version 1.2. Version 1.1 ran from 5 July 2023 to 26 June 2025; its projects had to complete validation by 27 December 2025.
- A major revision (v2.0) was consulted from 15 July to 17 August 2026. The draft would open the methodology to existing facilities, replace the positive list with a project additionality test, widen feedstocks and add Sectoral Scope 17. Verra plans to submit v2.0 to the ICVCM. Not final as of 12 October 2026.
CCP status
Version 1.2 approved by the ICVCM on 24 July 2025. Source: ICVCM decision.
CORSIA status
ICAO's April 2026 document neither names nor excludes VM0044. As a Sectoral Scope 13 methodology it does not appear to fall under the forestry or Scope 16 exclusions, so the general VCS conditions apply. This is our reading, not an ICAO statement; recheck if v2.0 moves to Scope 17. Source: ICAO, CORSIA Eligible Emissions Units (April 2026).
Why it matters for Brazil
- We have not found a citable Brazilian VM0044 project yet. We will add one only with a registry link.
- Project counts by country can be checked in the Berkeley Voluntary Registry Offsets Database (CC BY 4.0).
FAQ
Is VM0044 CCP-approved?
Yes, version 1.2. The ICVCM decision is dated 24 July 2025.
What would change in VM0044 v2.0?
The draft, consulted from 15 July to 17 August 2026, would let existing plants participate, switch additionality to a project test and widen feedstocks. It is not final.
Sources
- Verra, VM0044 v1.2 page
- Verra, consultation on VM0044 major revision
- ICVCM, VM0044 v1.2 decision
- ICAO, CORSIA Eligible Emissions Units, April 2026
Editorial summary in our own words, checked on 12 October 2026. The binding text is the methodology document published by Verra; we do not reproduce Verra tables or text. This is not investment or legal advice. Spotted an error? See our Editorial Policy and Corrections log.