Methodology
The approved rulebook defining how a project type quantifies, monitors and reports its results.
A methodology specifies boundary, baseline procedure, additionality test, quantification formulae, monitoring parameters and uncertainty treatment for a category of project. Credits are only issued where a project follows an approved one.
Methodology quality sets the ceiling on project quality. A permissive methodology can be applied perfectly and still produce weak units, which is why methodological revision, rather than individual project auditing, drives systemic improvement.
Frequently asked questions
Can a project invent its own methodology?
Some programmes allow new methodology proposals, but they must be reviewed and approved before use.
Why are methodologies revised?
Because evidence accumulates and loopholes become visible once many projects apply the same rules.