In the certification process of a carbon project, ex-post monitoring is a crucial step to measure the real impact of restoration activities after their implementation. Unlike initial estimates (ex-ante), which project future conditions, ex-post monitoring allows for verification and validation of the results obtained against greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals. This data is essential for the issuance of carbon credits.
This third and final article explores the role of ex-post monitoring in the VM-0033 methodology of VERRA 2.0. It covers monitoring methods, factors that may influence projected outcomes, and long-term responsibilities to ensure the permanence of environmental benefits. To read the previous article on project feasibility and ex-ante projection, click here.
Here are the key points for the implementation and monitoring phase of the project in the VM-0033 methodology:
Track and measure the ex-post projection: The project developer must regularly monitor the progress of the project scenario by comparing real results to initial projections (ex-ante) and adjusting interventions if necessary.
Evaluate variation factors: Consider exogenous and endogenous factors (such as natural disasters, erosion, harvesting, etc.) that could affect project outcomes.
Ensure continuous monitoring of carbon credits: Regular monitoring and third-party audits (every 2 to 3 years) allow for result verification and carbon credit issuance.
Maintain project permanence: Implement long-term measures to ensure the project's climate benefits are sustainable, such as remote sensing monitoring and converting the area into a nature reserve or agrotourism zone to protect the restored ecosystem.
Ex-post Monitoring: Tracking Real Impact
Ex-post monitoring takes place after project activities have been implemented and relies on a continuous data collection process. This process allows for the verification and validation of real results against initial projections, adjusting as needed for unexpected variations. Monitoring is based on several key parameters, with frequency and methodology detailed in a rigorous monitoring plan.
Key information to include in the monitoring plan:
Description of monitoring tasks: Define the various tasks, tools, and methods used to collect data.
Measured parameters: Identify the carbon parameters to be measured, such as biomass, water table depth, or erosion rates.
Frequency of measurements: Measurements should be conducted regularly, at least twice a year, and often more depending on the nature of the project and local conditions.
Quality assurance (QA/QC): Implement protocols to ensure the quality and accuracy of the collected data.
Data archiving: Store data transparently and accessibly, facilitating audits and long-term monitoring.
These steps are accompanied by descriptions of the measurement techniques used to ensure reliable and consistent results across different measurement periods. For example, geolocated poles are used to measure variations in vertical and horizontal erosion:
Vertical erosion: Measure the difference between the emerged surface of the vegetated area and the depth of adjacent water to assess vertical erosion. This method gives a precise indication of erosion acceleration based on mudflat slope.
Horizontal erosion: Use fixed poles and poles attached to organic soils to evaluate the displacement of organic soil relative to mineral soil. This displacement indicates horizontal erosion of the soil toward open water.
Soil exposure to aerobic conditions: Using devices such as platinum electrodes or Iris tubes, the project can measure when anaerobic conditions cease, indicating increased drainage and soil subsidence.
These techniques are complemented by tools for monitoring water table depth using perforated wells (PVC tubes), with at least 10 wells per stratum, and readings every 1 to 2 months to track water level variability.
Factors Influencing Scenario Evolution
The project scenario can evolve due to various exogenous and endogenous factors that may affect emissions reductions or carbon sequestration. These factors include:
Harvesting: If resources like plants are harvested, the project must either fully replant the area or demonstrate that the harvest is conducted sustainably, with resource management compatible with sequestration goals.
Fires: Fires can severely impact carbon levels, particularly by releasing methane. These events must be monitored, and corrective measures put in place if significant degradation occurs.
Excavation: Excavation projects in the area can affect soil stability and carbon stock dynamics.
Mortality and natural disturbances: Events such as tsunamis, landslides, or storms can directly impact the health of restored ecosystems.
Sea level rise: This global factor must be considered in long-term projections, as it can directly affect restored coastal areas.
The impacts of these factors must be measured, and scenarios adjusted accordingly to ensure the credibility and validity of the carbon credits issued by the project.
Monitoring Carbon Leakage and Solutions
One of the major components of ex-post monitoring is the control of carbon leakage. Leakage refers to any increase in GHG emissions caused by the displacement of human or natural activities outside the project's boundaries, potentially compromising net benefits. If leakage is detected, solutions must be quickly implemented to prevent the project from losing eligibility for carbon credit generation. This includes setting up additional buffer zones or implementing strategies to reduce the impact of external disturbances.
Long-term Responsibilities and Project Permanence
Even after the official project lifetime ends, the developer remains responsible for ensuring that environmental benefits are maintained over time. To guarantee project permanence, long-term measures must be implemented, such as:
Continuous monitoring using remote sensing technologies, allowing for the tracking of restored areas’ evolution.
Legal measures such as converting the area into a nature reserve or agrotourism zone, ensuring sustainable protection against the risks of unsustainable exploitation.
These mechanisms ensure that the project’s climate benefits, including carbon sequestration, are maintained and that the project continues to contribute to climate change mitigation long after its official end.
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Source :
VM033 – VERRA
Project documentation – VERRA
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