The Technical Advisory Board (TAB) of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has expanded the eligibility of carbon credits for the global aviation offsetting scheme, CORSIA. Credits generated under Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) methodology VM0051 for improved rice production are now officially included for both the first (2024–2026) and second (2027–2029) phases of the programme.
The decision applies to projects located in REDD+ countries, provided they secure the necessary host country government authorisation. This move allows airlines to meet their mandatory CORSIA offsetting requirements by investing in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions through improved water and crop management in flooded rice systems.
Launched in early 2025, the VM0051 methodology focuses on reducing methane emissions while enhancing resource efficiency, specifically regarding water and nitrogen fertilisers. Beyond climate mitigation, these projects are designed to deliver socio-environmental benefits, such as increasing farmers’ income and improving access to agricultural training and financial services for women.
There are currently eight projects registered with the Verra Registry utilising this methodology, with an estimated combined output of over 1.73 million carbon credits annually.
Verra recently released updated guidance for its CORSIA labels to streamline the application process for stakeholders. The organisation confirmed it will shortly revise this documentation to reflect the broader inclusion of VM0051 credits, helping to facilitate the market’s shift towards diverse, high-impact carbon removal and reduction solutions.
