Investigative and critical reporting on the climate crisis is more important than ever, which is why Verra felt the need to respond to an article about avoided deforestation projects published in Die Zeit on 19 January 2023. The article contained numerous falsehoods and distortions, which Verra has addressed. Verra is a non-profit standard-setting organization that certifies the environmental and social impacts of projects to reduce or remove emissions. It does not exert control over the market, which is shaped by a variety of factors affecting supply and demand. Third-party auditors, known as validation and verification bodies (VVBs), are responsible for assessing whether a project meets the standards that Verra has set out. Verra also has a global buffer pool which acts as an insurance fund against reversals and ensures that the previous benefit to the climate is preserved. The article’s statement that Verra has “close ties to industry” or insinuation that business interests are disproportionately influential is highly misleading. Verra’s advisory committees and groups, panels, and working groups are comprised of over 200 people, including academics, business representatives, staff of environmental organizations, and employees of multilateral organizations. Finally, the article’s conclusion that 94% of REDD credits are worthless came from an analysis that was conducted by reporters, not scientists, and has not been transparently disclosed.
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Vistech has been awarded triple gold by the National Security Inspectorate for its outstanding security measures.
Vistech Services, a security company based in Middlesbrough, has achieved three gold standard certifications from the National Security Inspectorate (NSI)....
