Peer-Reviewed Projects

Colleges and universities developing carbon offset projects through the Offset Network can generate peer-reviewed offsets. Instead of receiving verification by an International Standards Organization (ISO) accredited verifier, peer-reviewed offset credits are validated and verified by a peer institution verifier. At present, these offsets may only be used towards an academic institution's carbon neutrality commitment, and may not be bought or sold.

Peer-reviewed offset projects can follow an existing protocol that is approved by one of the main carbon standards operating in traditional carbon markets (i.e. VCS, CAR). Alternatively, these projects can pursue new strategies outside of currently approved offset methodologies. These innovative projects reflect the spirit and culture of creativity, critical thinking, applied research, and experiential education promoted in higher education. New protocols for carbon offsets should be grounded in the latest science, should reference peer-reviewed literature, and should ideally be supported by pilot initiatives. 

All new protocols developed by colleges and universities are required to undergo a Protocol Review Process, and must be reviewed by experts before acceptance by the Offset Network. 

The projects below have undergone or are currently undergoing peer validation and plan to seek peer verification in order to issue peer-reviewed offsets.