Gold Standard for the Global Goals is our next-generation standard, designed to accelerate progress toward climate security and sustainable development. The standard enables initiatives to quantify, certify and maximize their impacts toward climate security and the Sustainable Development Goals, while enhanced safeguards, holistic project design, management of trade-offs and local stakeholder engagement ensure Gold Standard continues to deliver the highest levels of environmental and social integrity.
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Guide to Standard Documents GS4GG Standard documents are grouped in numbered sections by scope and purpose. Alongside Principles and Requirements (100) documentation – which applies to all projects – any and all Activity Requirements (200), Contextual Requirements (300), SDG Impact Quantification (400) and Product Requirements (500) documentation applicable to your specific project type must be followed. Note that Governance documents detail the governance procedures of the Standard and do not apply to projects. It is important each numbered document section is checked for the Standard documents that are applicable to your specific project type. Each section is equipped with a set of filters and a search and sort function to help you find the applicable documents quickly. *The Principles and Requirements (100) also contain specific requirements that apply only to certain types of project design (e.g. microscale and PoA requirements). **Activity Requirements (200) may include exceptions to the Principles and Requirements applicable to specific project activity types.Summary
Section Guide
Principles and Requirements (100): Mandatory requirements or guidelines that all projects must follow, including GS4GG Stakeholder Procedure, Requirements & Guidelines & GS4GG Safeguarding Principles & Requirements, Gold Standard Gender Policy and Claims Guidelines.*
Activity Requirements (200): Mandatory requirements that apply only to specific project types. There are activity requirements for Land-Use and Forest (LUF), Renewable Energy (RE) and Community Services (CSA) project types.
Contextual Requirements (300): Mandatory requirements for projects operating within a specific context, e.g. Cities
SDG Impact Quantification (400): Methodologies and/or tools that must applied to quantify SDG impacts from a specific project type (e.g. emission reductions, aDALYs etc). Note multiple methodologies may be applied in one project.
Product Requirements (500): Mandatory requirements that apply only to specific GS certified products (e.g. VERs) that can be issued by following all applicable Principles and Requirements, Activity Requirements, Contextual Requirements and SDG Impact Quantification
Templates: All forms and templates that may be required during the project certification cycle.
Governance: documents related to the governance procedures of the standard. These are not required to be read to develop a project.
Document types
Core Documents: numbered documents within a section are mandatorily applicable to all projects
Guidelines: documents within a section that provide mandatory guidance on a specific area or subject
Activity Requirements: documents within a section that are mandatory to specific Gold Standard project types only
Optional Requirements: documents within a section that are mandatory to specific Gold Standard project scales only
Assurance: documents within a section that provide mandatory guidance and requirements on assurance
Principles & Requirements These guidelines are intended to assist project developers, partners and funders in communicating accurately and appropriately about the benefits derived from Gold Standard projects. No change in March 2018 review. This document provides the mandatory Principles & Requirements that all Gold Standard projects must conform to. It represents the starting point for all projects seeking Gold Standard certification of any kind. Requirements and guidelines for applying the Gold Standard Gender certification process. This document provides the requirements for Programmes of Activity, a term used to describe an ‘umbrella’ certification under which multiple projects may be developed. This document details the stakeholder consultation & engagement Procedure, requirements & guidelines that all projects must apply. This document presents the Gold Standard Gender Policy, as applicable at an organisational level and to the standards and certification of Gold Standard projects. This document provides the specific requirements and adjustments to requirements that apply to micro-scale projects. This document describes how Gold Standard certification decisions are made and how VVBs are approved to audit Gold Standard projects. It also includes which GS-VVBs are eligible to audit different Gold Standard project certification pathways. No change in March 2018 review. This document describes the timing, requirements and procedures under which existing Gold Standard projects transition to Gold Standard for the Global Goals. This document details the safeguarding principles and associated requirements that all projects must assess and conform to. Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History Related Documents Rule Updates Rule Clarifications categories_hfilter Claims Guidelines 1.0 30.06.2017 
101.1 G CG Guidelines 100_g 100 Principles & Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 Core Documents
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Retroactive Projects Eligibility, Transition Requirements for existing projects Contribution to the Gold Standard Conformity Buffer , Erroneous Inclusion 100_ 100 Gender Equality Requirements & Guidelines 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 GG Core Documents, SDG 5
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100_ sdg_5 100 400 Programme of Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 OR POA Optional Requirements
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Erroneous Inclusion 100_or 100 Stakeholder Procedure, Requirements & Guidelines 1.1 01.03.2018 101.3 Core Documents
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100_ 100 Gender Policy 1.0 01.03.2018 101.1 G Guidelines
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100_g 100 Microscale Project Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 OR Optional Requirements
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100_or 100 Validation & Verification Body Requirements 1.0 01.03.2018 101.A VVBR Assurance 100_a 100 Transition Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.5 Core Documents
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100_ 100 Safeguarding Principles & Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.4 Core Documents
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Activity Requirements This document is to be read and used in conjunction with the Gold Standard LU&F Activity Requirements. It provides the Risks & Capacities Guideline to help Projects better consider, articulate and mitigate risk. No change in March 2018 review. This document provides specific requirements for Community Services projects, including renewables (mini/off-grid), end-use energy efficiency, waste management and handling and WASH. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. This document provides specific requirements for Land-use and Forest projects, including A/R and Agriculture. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. This document provides specific requirements for renewable energy projects. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter Land-use & Forests Risks & Capacities Guideline 1.0 01.07.2017 201 LUF G R&C Guidelines 200_g 200 Community Services Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 CS Activity Requirements
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200_ 200 Land-use & Forests Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 LUF Activity Requirements
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200_ 200 Renewable Energy Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 RE Activity Requirements
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Contextual Requirements This document provides the Requirements and pathway to certification for Sustainable Urban Development projects and programmes. No change in March 2018 review.Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter Gold Standard for Sustainable Urban Development 1.0 01.07.2017 301 SUD Core Documents, SDG 11 300_ sdg_11 300 400
SDG Impact Quantification This document sets out the Requirements and Guidelines for carrying out usage surveys for projects implementing improved cooking devices. It is an annex to several methodologies related to clean cooking. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from fuel switch to biomass projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from biomass residue projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Requirements and guidelines for applying the Gold Standard Gender certification process. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from manure management projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements for projects seeking the issuance of Gold Standard carbon credits (PERs, GS-VERs and GS-CERs). This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration from A/R activities. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration from improved tillage projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify and issue Emissions Reductions from smallholder dairy projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements and pathway to certification for Sustainable Urban Development projects and programmes. No change in March 2018 review. Gold Standard Methodology for Water Access and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Projects This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from thermal improvements in buildings. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify SLCP Emissions Reductions for improved cookstove projects. Methodology Summary: This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from projects that displace decentralized thermal energy technologies. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Methodology Shorthand: Revision History: Applicable Activity Requirements: Example Project Types: This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from household device projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from Installation of Flow Improvement Equipment on Ships. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from biodiesel from waste projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify ADALYs, a measure of mortality and morbidity, from cleaner household air projects. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from alternative ignition projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from advanced hull coating projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the requirements and process for Renewable Energy projects to be able to issue Gold Standard labels for eligible Renewable Energy Products such as Renewable Energy Certificates. Gold Standard has approved the requirements to apply CDM Methodology AMS-III.AU “Methane emission reduction by adjusted water management practice in rice cultivation” for Gold Standard Certification. This document provides a methodology to quantify Emissions Reductions from the retrofit of energy efficiency measures in shipping. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from microscope energisation and electrification projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from agricultural product processing projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from small scale food preservation projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This methodology is specific to an adaptation of a particular planting method for sugarcane, which is part of the much more comprehensive package of practices known as the Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI). This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from micro-scale cookstove projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from thermal energy from plant oil projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. …Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter Impact Quantification methodology approval procedure 1.0 22.10.2018 Core Methodologies 400_core_method 400 Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter 
Cookstove Usage Rate Guidelines 1.0 06.09.2017 401.13 GUIDELINE ANNEX SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Ecologically Sound Fuel Switch to Biomass with Reduced Energy Requirement 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER ESFSB SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Fuel switch from fossil fuels to biomass residues in boilers for heat generation 1.0 14.06.2017 401.ER 13 FFBB SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gender Equality Requirements & Guidelines 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 GG Core Documents, SDG 5
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100_ sdg_5 100 400 GHG Emission Reductions from Manure Management Systems and Municipal Solid Waste 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER MM SDG 13 sdg_13 400 GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration Product Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 501 ER Core Documents, SDG 13
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500_ sdg_13 500 400 Gold Standard A/R GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Methodology 1.0 03.07.2017 401.13 AR SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Agriculture Methodology for Increasing Soil Carbon Through Improved Tillage Practices 0.9 22.06.2017 401.13 AGR SCTITP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Agriculture Smallholder Dairy Methodology 1.0 22.06.2017 401.13 GS AGR SDM SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard for Sustainable Urban Development 1.0 01.07.2017 301 SUD Core Documents, SDG 11 300_ sdg_11 300 400 
Gold Standard Methodology for Accreditation of Water Benefit Certificates 1.0 10.10.2017 401.6 SDG 6 sdg_6 400 Gold Standard Methodology for Thermal performance improvements in low-income dwelling structures 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER TPI SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Quantification of climate related emission reductions of Black Carbon and Co-emitted Species due to the replacement of less efficient cookstoves with improved efficiency cookstoves 1.1 25.08.2017 401.13 CR SLCP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Technologies and Practices to Displace Decentralized Thermal Energy Consumption 3.1 25.08.2017 401.13 TPDDTEC SDG 13
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sdg_13 400 Indicative Program, Baseline and Monitoring Methodology for the Large Scale Supply & Distribution of Efficient Light Bulbs, Shower Heads and Other Water Saving Devices to Households 2.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER CFL SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Installation of Flow Improvement Equipment on Ships 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER FIE SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Methodology for Biodiesel from waste oil/fat from biogenic origin for use as fuel 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER BFWOF SDG 13 sdg_13 400 
Methodology to Estimate and Verify ADALYs from Cleaner Household Air 1.0 14.06.2017 401.3 ADALYS SDG 3 sdg_3 400 Programme, baseline and monitoring methodology for the introduction of an alternative ignition technique as measure to improve the energy efficiency of domestic coal fires 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER AI SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Reducing Vessel Emissions Through the Use of Advanced Hull Coatings 2.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER AHC SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Renewable Energy Label Product Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 501 RE Core Documents, SDG 7
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500_ sdg_7 500 400 Requirements to apply CDM Methodology “AMS – III AU” for Gold Standard Certification 1.0 22.10.2018 SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Retrofit Energy Efficiency Measures in Shipping 1.0 02.08.2017 401.13 REES SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Suppressed Demand Methodology Micro-scale Electrification and Energization 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDMSEE SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Suppressed Demand Small-scale Methodology for Energy Use for the Processing of Agricultural Products 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDSS PAP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Suppressed Demand Small-scale Methodology for Low GHG Food Preservation 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDSS FP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative Methodology to Quantify Water Efficiency Outcomes from Seedling Nurseries 1.0 10.10.2017 401.6 SDG 6 sdg_6 400 The Gold Standard Simplified Methodology for Efficient Cookstoves 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER MS CS SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Thermal energy from plant oil for the user of cooking stoves 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER TEPO SDG 13 sdg_13 400 UNFCCC Clean Development Mechanism Methodology – Gold Standard Eligibility 1.0 07.07.2017 401.13 CDM SDG 13 sdg_13 400
Product Requirements This document provides the Requirements for projects seeking the issuance of Gold Standard carbon credits (PERs, GS-VERs and GS-CERs). This document provides the requirements and process for Renewable Energy projects to be able to issue Gold Standard labels for eligible Renewable Energy Products such as Renewable Energy Certificates. Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration Product Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 501 ER Core Documents, SDG 13
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Templates
Governance This document sets out the principles that guide all Gold Standard technical developments, including standards-setting, methodology, tools and guideline development and certification structures and decision making. This document defines the role, remit, authority and modalities of the Gold Standard Technical Governance Committee (TGC). The TGC is responsible for the mandating of technical governance in Gold Standard, in line with the Technical Governance Guiding Principles. This document sets out Gold Standard’s approach to the monitoring and evaluation of its impacts. It is intended to indicate how the the ISEAL Code of Good Practice; “Assessing the Impacts of Social and Environmental Standards Systems” is/will be applied. This document sets out the procedures and guidelines for all standards setting activities at Gold Standard. This includes the development and revision of standards, tools, guidelines, methodologies and procedures. This document provides an overview of previous, current and proposed standards setting.Title Version Date PDF Shorthand Summary 
Technical Governance: Guiding Principles 1.0 22.06.2017 001 Technical Governance Committee Terms of Reference 1.0 22.06.2017 001 TGC Impacts Monitoring & Evaluation Manual 1.0 18.12.2017 001 M&E MAN Standards Setting Procedure 1.1 22.03.2018 Gold Standard: Standards Setting Work Plan 1.0 08.06.2018
All Documents Clarification on applicability of Global Warming Potential for Gold Standard for Global Goal projects These guidelines are intended to assist project developers, partners and funders in communicating accurately and appropriately about the benefits derived from Gold Standard projects. No change in March 2018 review. This document provides specific requirements for Community Services projects, including renewables (mini/off-grid), end-use energy efficiency, waste management and handling and WASH. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. Clarification on eligibility of credits that can be used to meet the Gold Standard Conformity Buffer requirements. This document sets out the Requirements and Guidelines for carrying out usage surveys for projects implementing improved cooking devices. It is an annex to several methodologies related to clean cooking. … This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from fuel switch to biomass projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Clarification on definition of Erroneous Inclusion and requirements for managing Non- Conformity have been included in these documents. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from biomass residue projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Requirements and guidelines for applying the Gold Standard Gender certification process. This document presents the Gold Standard Gender Policy, as applicable at an organisational level and to the standards and certification of Gold Standard projects. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from manure management projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements for projects seeking the issuance of Gold Standard carbon credits (PERs, GS-VERs and GS-CERs). This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration from A/R activities. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration from improved tillage projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify and issue Emissions Reductions from smallholder dairy projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. … This document provides the Requirements and pathway to certification for Sustainable Urban Development projects and programmes. No change in March 2018 review. Gold Standard Methodology for Water Access and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Projects This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from thermal improvements in buildings. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify SLCP Emissions Reductions for improved cookstove projects. Methodology Summary: This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from projects that displace decentralized thermal energy technologies. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Methodology Shorthand: Revision History: Applicable Activity Requirements: Example Project Types: This document provides an overview of previous, current and proposed standards setting. 1.0 – initial publication June 18 The rule update allows GS-CER projects to become eligible for Gold Standard Renewable Energy Labels provided certain conditions are met to mitigate the risk of issuing carbon credits and renewable energy certificates from the same MWh. … … … Gold Standard has released the standard procedure for Impact Quantification methodology approval under the Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG). This document sets out Gold Standard’s approach to the monitoring and evaluation of its impacts. It is intended to indicate how the the ISEAL Code of Good Practice; “Assessing the Impacts of Social and Environmental Standards Systems” is/will be applied. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from household device projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from Installation of Flow Improvement Equipment on Ships. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Clarification on issuances of PERs This document provides specific requirements for Land-use and Forest projects, including A/R and Agriculture. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. This document is to be read and used in conjunction with the Gold Standard LU&F Activity Requirements. It provides the Risks & Capacities Guideline to help Projects better consider, articulate and mitigate risk. No change in March 2018 review. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from biodiesel from waste projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify ADALYs, a measure of mortality and morbidity, from cleaner household air projects. This document provides the specific requirements and adjustments to requirements that apply to micro-scale projects. This document provides the mandatory Principles & Requirements that all Gold Standard projects must conform to. It represents the starting point for all projects seeking Gold Standard certification of any kind. This document provides the requirements for Programmes of Activity, a term used to describe an ‘umbrella’ certification under which multiple projects may be developed. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from alternative ignition projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. Project Design Document template This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from advanced hull coating projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. The methodology “Reducing Vessel Emissions Through the Use of Advanced Hull Coatings” has been put on hold to address the inconsistencies in GHGs emission reductions quantification approaches.
This document provides specific requirements for renewable energy projects. It is to be read in conjunction with the Gold Standard for the Global Goals Principles & Requirements. This document provides the requirements and process for Renewable Energy projects to be able to issue Gold Standard labels for eligible Renewable Energy Products such as Renewable Energy Certificates. … Gold Standard has approved the requirements to apply CDM Methodology AMS-III.AU “Methane emission reduction by adjusted water management practice in rice cultivation” for Gold Standard Certification. Gold standard has introduced exemptions for retroactive projects from LUF and Shipping sector. This document provides a methodology to quantify Emissions Reductions from the retrofit of energy efficiency measures in shipping. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document details the safeguarding principles and associated requirements that all projects must assess and conform to. Clarification on issuance of Gold Standard VERs related to eligible Soil Carbon component This document details the stakeholder consultation & engagement Procedure, requirements & guidelines that all projects must apply. This document sets out the procedures and guidelines for all standards setting activities at Gold Standard. This includes the development and revision of standards, tools, guidelines, methodologies and procedures. This document sets out the procedures and guidelines for all standards setting activities at Gold Standard. This includes the development and revision of standards, tools, guidelines, methodologies and procedures. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from microscope energisation and electrification projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from agricultural product processing projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from small scale food preservation projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This methodology is specific to an adaptation of a particular planting method for sugarcane, which is part of the much more comprehensive package of practices known as the Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI). This document defines the role, remit, authority and modalities of the Gold Standard Technical Governance Committee (TGC). The TGC is responsible for the mandating of technical governance in Gold Standard, in line with the Technical Governance Guiding Principles. This document sets out the principles that guide all Gold Standard technical developments, including standards-setting, methodology, tools and guideline development and certification structures and decision making. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from micro-scale cookstove projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document provides the Requirements to be followed by projects seeking to quantify GHG Emissions Reductions from thermal energy from plant oil projects. Used in conjunction with the GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Product Requirements project may be issued with carbon credits. This document describes the timing, requirements and procedures under which existing Gold Standard projects transition to Gold Standard for the Global Goals. The following clarifications are relevant to all Project Proponents, regardless of the version of the standard under which your project is Registered. It provides a clarification to the ‘Gold Standard for the Global Goals Transition Requirements’ document in the following areas: In addition to the above Gold Standard also clarifies Requirements concerning: … This document describes how Gold Standard certification decisions are made and how VVBs are approved to audit Gold Standard projects. It also includes which GS-VVBs are eligible to audit different Gold Standard project certification pathways. No change in March 2018 review.Title Version Date PDF Template Shorthand Type Summary Revision History categories_hfilter 
A/R Additionality (A/R Projects) 1.0 01.03.2018 t.16 Land Use and Forests t_luf t AGR Additionality (AGR Projects) 1.0 01.03.2018 t.24 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Annual Report 1.1 01.03.2018 t.04 Core Templates
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Date
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View
1.1
01.03.18
Improved clarity of template structure, included dates of key milestones, added a specific reporting requirement for A/R Projects applying FSC dual certification Validation Appraisal Report.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
t_ t Applicability 1.0 01.03.2018 t.17 Land Use and Forests t_luf t 
Applicability of Global Warming Potential for Gold Standard for Global Goal projects 22.10.2018 Core Rule Clarifications rc_ rc Baseline 1.0 01.03.2018 t.18 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Carbon Performance 1.0 01.03.2018 t.19 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Claims Guidelines 1.0 30.06.2017 101.1 G CG Guidelines 100_g 100 CO2 Fixation 1.0 01.03.2018 t.20 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Community Services Activities FAQ 04.06.2018 Community Services Activities FAQ faq_csa faq Community Services Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 CS Activity Requirements
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Date
Remarks
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1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos.
Tracked Changes
1.0
10.07.17
First version.
PDF
200_ 200 Contribution to the Gold Standard Conformity Buffer 22.10.2018 Core Rule Clarifications rc_ rc Cookstove Usage Rate Guidelines 1.0 06.09.2017 401.13 GUIDELINE ANNEX SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Cover Letter 1.0 22.02.2018 t.08 Core Templates t_ t Design Consultation Report 1.0 01.03.2018 t.13 Micro Scale, Programme of Activities t_micro t_poa t Deviation Request Form 2.0 03.05.2018 Core Templates, Templates t_ t Ecologically Sound Fuel Switch to Biomass with Reduced Energy Requirement 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER ESFSB SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Emissions Reduction Acquisition Agreement 1.0 01.03.2018 t.09 Core Templates t_ t Erroneous Inclusion 22.10.2018 Core Rule Clarifications rc_ rc Fuel switch from fossil fuels to biomass residues in boilers for heat generation 1.0 14.06.2017 401.ER 13 FFBB SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gender Equality Requirements & Guidelines 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 GG Core Documents, SDG 5
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified applicaibility to transition project.
Tracked Changes
1.0
10.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_ sdg_5 100 400 Gender Policy 1.0 01.03.2018 101.1 G Guidelines
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Remarks
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1.0
01.03.18
Formatting changes.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.08.17
First version.
100_g 100 GHG Emission Reductions from Manure Management Systems and Municipal Solid Waste 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER MM SDG 13 sdg_13 400 GHG Emissions Reductions & Sequestration Product Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 501 ER Core Documents, SDG 13
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos.
Tracked Changes
1.0
10.07.17
First version.
PDF
500_ sdg_13 500 400 Gold Standard A/R GHG Emissions Reduction & Sequestration Methodology 1.0 03.07.2017 401.13 AR SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Agriculture Methodology for Increasing Soil Carbon Through Improved Tillage Practices 0.9 22.06.2017 401.13 AGR SCTITP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Agriculture Smallholder Dairy Methodology 1.0 22.06.2017 401.13 GS AGR SDM SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard CDM FAQ 04.06.2018 Gold Standard CDM FAQ faq_cdm faq Gold Standard for Sustainable Urban Development 1.0 01.07.2017 301 SUD Core Documents, SDG 11 300_ sdg_11 300 400 Gold Standard Methodology for Accreditation of Water Benefit Certificates 1.0 10.10.2017 401.6 SDG 6 sdg_6 400 Gold Standard Methodology for Thermal performance improvements in low-income dwelling structures 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER TPI SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Quantification of climate related emission reductions of Black Carbon and Co-emitted Species due to the replacement of less efficient cookstoves with improved efficiency cookstoves 1.1 25.08.2017 401.13 CR SLCP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Gold Standard Technologies and Practices to Displace Decentralized Thermal Energy Consumption 3.1 25.08.2017 401.13 TPDDTEC SDG 13
Version
Date
Remarks
3.1
25th August 2017
Addition of Annex 10, Usage Rate Guidelines
3.0
10th July 2017
Publication with GS4GG
2.0
24th April 2015
Addition of default WCFT values, quarterly monitoring of water quality, hygiene campaigns, default baseline fuel consumption for wood fuel use
1.0
11th April 2011
Initial Publication
sdg_13 400 Gold Standard: Standards Setting Work Plan 1.0 08.06.2018 Governance Documents 000_gov 000 
GS CDM eligibility requirements for Gold Standard Renewable Energy Labels 22.10.2018 Core Rule Updates ru_ ru GS4GG Project Cycle FAQ 04.06.2018 GS4GG Project Cycle FAQ faq_projectcycle faq GS4GG Transition FAQ 04.06.2018 GS4GG Transition FAQ faq_transition faq Impact Methodologies FAQ 15.06.2018 Impact Methodologies FAQ faq_methodologies faq Impact Quantification methodology approval procedure 22.10.2018 Core Rule Updates ru_ ru Impact Quantification methodology approval procedure 1.0 22.10.2018 Core Methodologies 400_core_method 400 Impacts Monitoring & Evaluation Manual 1.0 18.12.2017 001 M&E MAN Governance Documents 000_gov 000 Indicative Program, Baseline and Monitoring Methodology for the Large Scale Supply & Distribution of Efficient Light Bulbs, Shower Heads and Other Water Saving Devices to Households 2.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER CFL SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Installation of Flow Improvement Equipment on Ships 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER FIE SDG 13 sdg_13 400 ISEAL 1 13.07.2018 ISEAL Documents isdoc 000 Issuance of Planned Emissions Reductions (PERs) 22.10.2018 Core Rule Clarifications rc_ rc Land Use and Forestry Activities FAQ 04.06.2018 Land Use and Forestry Activities FAQ faq_luf faq Land-use & Forests Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 LUF Activity Requirements
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos. Clarification on new AR certification.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
200_ 200 Land-use & Forests Risks & Capacities Guideline 1.0 01.07.2017 201 LUF G R&C Guidelines 200_g 200 Leakage 1.0 01.03.2018 t.21 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Methodology for Biodiesel from waste oil/fat from biogenic origin for use as fuel 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER BFWOF SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Methodology to Estimate and Verify ADALYs from Cleaner Household Air 1.0 14.06.2017 401.3 ADALYS SDG 3 sdg_3 400 Microscale Project Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 OR Optional Requirements
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_or 100 Microscale Validation Appraisal Report 1.1 22.02.2018 t.10 Micro Scale
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Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Improved clarity of template structure, removed detailed guidance for objective observer, included templates requiring evaluation.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
t_micro t Microscale Verification Appraisal Report 1.1 01.03.2018 t.11 Micro Scale
Version
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Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Improved clarity of template structure, removed detailed guidance for objective observer, included templates requiring evaluation.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
t_micro t Monitoring Report 1.0 01.03.2018 t.05 Core Templates t_ t Official Development Assistance Declaration 1.0 01.03.2018 t.07 Core Templates t_ t Other Emissions 1.0 01.03.2018 t.22 Land Use and Forests t_luf t POA Design Document 1.0 01.03.2018 t.12 Micro Scale, Programme of Activities t_micro t_poa t Principles & Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 Core Documents
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms, updated renewal of crediting period and ongoing financial need rules for transition projects, clarified the need for an official development assistance declaration.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_ 100 Programme of Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.1 OR POA Optional Requirements
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos. Removed repetitive section on multi country programmes and provided further clarity on the sustainable development assessment process for mPOA and VPA level.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_or 100 Programme, baseline and monitoring methodology for the introduction of an alternative ignition technique as measure to improve the energy efficiency of domestic coal fires 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER AI SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Project Design Document 1.1 22.02.2018 t.02 Core Templates t_ t Reducing Vessel Emissions Through the Use of Advanced Hull Coatings 2.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER AHC SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Reducing Vessel Emissions Through the Use of Advanced Hull Coatings (Version 2.0) 22.10.2018 Core Rule Updates ru_ ru Renewable Energy Activities FAQ 04.06.2018 Renewable Energy Activities FAQ faq_re faq Renewable Energy Activity Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 201 RE Activity Requirements
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Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
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200_ 200 Renewable Energy Label Product Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 501 RE Core Documents, SDG 7
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1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos.
Tracked Changes
1.0
10.07.17
First version.
PDF
500_ sdg_7 500 400 Renewable Energy Labels FAQ 04.06.2018 Renewable Energy Activities FAQ faq_re faq Requirements to apply CDM Methodology “AMS – III AU” for Gold Standard Certification 1.0 22.10.2018 SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Retroactive Projects Eligibility 22.10.2018 Core Rule Updates ru_ ru Retrofit Energy Efficiency Measures in Shipping 1.0 02.08.2017 401.13 REES SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Risks and Capacities 1.0 22.02.2018 t.15 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Safeguarding Principles & Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.4 Core Documents
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Date
Remarks
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1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms and removed typos. Clarified that assessment questions determine how Requirements shall be met for each principle
Tracked Changes
1.0
10.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_ 100 Soil Carbon 1.0 01.03.2018 
t.23 Land Use and Forests t_luf t Soil Carbon – Issuance request of Gold Standard – VERs 22.10.2018 Core Rule Clarifications rc_ rc Stakeholder Consultation Report 1.0 01.03.2018 t.03 Core Templates t_ t Stakeholder Procedure, Requirements & Guidelines 1.1 01.03.2018 101.3 Core Documents
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1.1
01.03.18
Included numbering for clarity and removed typos.
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1.0
01.07.17
First version.
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100_ 100 Standards Setting Procedure 1.0 22.06.2017 001 PRO1 SSP Uncategorized uncategorized Standards Setting Procedure 1.1 22.03.2018 Governance, Governance Documents 000 000_gov Suppressed Demand Methodology Micro-scale Electrification and Energization 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDMSEE SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Suppressed Demand Small-scale Methodology for Energy Use for the Processing of Agricultural Products 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDSS PAP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Suppressed Demand Small-scale Methodology for Low GHG Food Preservation 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER SDSS FP SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative Methodology to Quantify Water Efficiency Outcomes from Seedling Nurseries 1.0 10.10.2017 401.6 SDG 6 sdg_6 400 Technical Governance Committee Terms of Reference 1.0 22.06.2017 001 TGC Governance Documents 000_gov 000 Technical Governance: Guiding Principles 1.0 22.06.2017 001 Governance Documents 000_gov 000 Terms and Conditions 1.0 01.03.2018 t.06 Core Templates t_ t The Gold Standard Simplified Methodology for Efficient Cookstoves 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER MS CS SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Thermal energy from plant oil for the user of cooking stoves 1.0 14.06.2017 401.13 ER TEPO SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Transition Requirements 1.1 01.03.2018 101.5 Core Documents
Version
Date
Remarks
View
1.1
01.03.18
Clarified and harmonised key terms, updated renewal of crediting period and ongoing financial need rules for transition projects. Removed out of date information regarding early transitions.
Tracked Changes
1.0
01.07.17
First version.
PDF
100_ 100 Transition Requirements for existing projects 15.02.2018 Core Rule Updates
ru_ ru Transition Template 1.0 01.03.2018 t.01 Core Templates t_ t UNFCCC Clean Development Mechanism Methodology – Gold Standard Eligibility 1.0 07.07.2017 401.13 CDM SDG 13 sdg_13 400 Validation & Verification Body Requirements 1.0 01.03.2018 101.A VVBR Assurance 100_a 100 VPA Design Document 1.0 22.02.2018 t.14 Micro Scale, Programme of Activities t_micro t_poa t
More information:
Transitioning existing projects to Gold Standard for the Global Goals.
The transition to the standard is designed to be simple and practical, minimising resources on the developer’s side. Please see our Transition Requirements>> for further information about transitioning existing projects to Gold Standard for the Global Goals.
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For more information about Gold Standard for the Global Goals, please visit our FAQs
Earlier Standard Versions.
Earlier versions of our standard are available here
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All Standards documents are available in hard copy upon request in cases where this cannot be reasonable carried out by the body requesting. A charge will be applied for printing and postage costs. Please note that requests for multiple or large documents require a reasonable notice period, dependent on the availability of Gold Standard staff>>