Carbon registry organization Gold Standard has published its Engineered Removals Activity Requirements, a new framework designed to guide the certification of engineered carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects.
This milestone supports the nonprofit’s push to expand methodology development in the voluntary carbon market (VCM) with the same scientific and stakeholder rigor that has shaped its 20-year legacy.
The requirements outline key criteria for projects to meet high-integrity standards, including safeguards for sustainable development, mandatory buffer contributions, and strategies to mitigate reversal risks.
The framework aligns with international protocols such as the EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework, CORSIA, and Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement.
“Carbon removals are essential to achieving a 1.5 °C pathway,” said Margaret Kim, CEO of Gold Standard, highlighting the importance of integrity in climate action.
Relevant: New Report Indicates That The Engineered CDR Credits Market Will Surpass $14B In 2035
Gold Standard has already made strides in engineered removals, with its first methodology—Accelerated Carbonation of Concrete Aggregate, developed with Neustark—saw credit issuance in 2024.
Two additional methodologies were updated in June 2025—Carbon Mineralisation using Reactive Mineral Waste, and Biomass Fermentation with Carbon Capture and Geologic Storage.
Both are under review by the Integrity Council for alignment with Core Carbon Principles.
A biochar methodology covering artisan to industrial-scale production is also in the pipeline.
Dr. Fiona Perera of Gold Standard emphasized that “carbon removals must complement emissions reductions” to maintain sector credibility.
Gold Standard encourages developers to submit concept notes for new CDR solutions and mandates that all projects contribute to at least three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A new Just and Sustainable Transitions Framework is also in development to ensure broader social and environmental benefits.
Gold Standard is hosting a webinar on September 18 to further explore the topic of engineered removals and the importance of integrity, and interested parties are invited to register here.
Read more: Gold Standard Unveils Certification Framework Updates To Boost Paris Agreement Alignment
