Frequently Asked Questions

What is the VCS Project Database?
The VCS Project Database is a publicly available technology platform that all VCSA Registries use to provide a central location for projects approved under the VCS.  Specifically, the VCS Project Database presents information on all VCS projects and issued VCUs, lists relevant project-related documents, and tracks the status of issued VCUs.

How does the VCS Project Database work?
The VCS Project Database only lists projects and VCUs that have met all of the VCS criteria and which have been checked by the corresponding VCS Registry. Once a registry has checked project documentation submitted by project proponents, the registry submits a request for project registration and/or VCU issuance to the VCS Project Database, which in turn checks the submission against all other projects in the VCS Project Database to ensure uniqueness. Once all of these checks are completed, the VCS Project Database issues unique serial numbers for each VCU.  The registry will then issue these VCUs into the account of the Project Proponent. 

Who can use the VCS Project Database?
The Public can access the VCS Project Database public reports at any time and this does not require opening an account.  VCS Registries have access to the VCS Project Database to submit project details, documents and requests for VCU issuances.

How do I use and register projects in the VCS Project Database?
To submit a project for VCS approval, contact one of the VCS Registries for specific registration processes and costs. 

What reports are publicly available and how can I access them?
The VCS Project Database provides a number of publicly accessible reports.  The reports provide comprehensive information about all carbon offset projects developed under the VCS and identify how many VCUs have been issued for each project. Although the reports will eventually identify which VCUs have been retired so that buyers can verify their status, that functionality is currently not available.

Why doesn’t the VCS Project Database indicate whether a VCU has been retired?
The VCS Project Database will soon indicate the status of VCUs (i.e., whether they are active or retired). However, that functionality is still being developed and will be available as soon as possible. In the meantime, the status of each VCU should be properly indicated in the corresponding registry account.

What is The Voluntary Carbon Standard Association?
Visit The Voluntary Carbon Standard website for more information.