In a cyclical and rapidly evolving voluntary carbon market (VCM), the VM0018 methodology stands out as a major innovation capable of redefining traditional approaches to ex-post carbon credit generation. Developed by Solutions Will under the leadership of Martin Clermont and certified in 2012 by the VCS program administered by Verra, this methodology introduces a fundamental shift away from conventional models based on isolated projects and limited physical boundaries.
Unlike traditional approaches that restrict emission reductions to specific assets, VM0018 adopts a programmatic framework that mobilizes entire territories, transforming a wide range of small local actions into certified carbon credits issued ex-post to the voluntary carbon market.
Aggregation: the key to scaling up
At the core of this approach lies VM0018’s unique ability to aggregate numerous small-scale GHG emission reduction initiatives from a diverse group of non-regulated actors, including SMEs, municipalities, institutions, and non-profits.
By structuring these initiatives into “Sustainable Community” programs, the methodology unlocks a largely untapped pool of reduction potential. Actions related to energy efficiency, waste management, and behavioral change become measurable, verifiable, and monetizable—turning fragmented efforts into a coherent carbon infrastructure with strong scalability potential.
A unique multi-sector coverage
One of VM0018’s most distinctive strengths is its ability to simultaneously integrate two major VCS sectoral scopes. On one hand, Scope 3 addresses demand-side energy reductions through efficiency improvements and optimized usage.
On the other, Scope 13 focuses on waste management, particularly methane avoidance—one of the most critical levers in combating climate change. This dual-sector coverage is unique in the voluntary carbon market and provides a significant competitive advantage by maximizing climate impact, diversifying credit streams, and strengthening project portfolio resilience.
This multi-sector, programmatic structure also enhances risk management. Rather than relying on a single activity type, VM0018 distributes efforts across complementary levers, increasing robustness in a market characterized by volatility and rising expectations for credit quality and integrity.
Concrete projects with high potential
A small but strategic number of clustered projects developed using the VM0018 methodology are already listed in the Verra registry, providing concrete evidence of this approach’s potential. Five distinct initiatives are currently listed in North America and Europe.
In the United Kingdom, the Decarbonization of the Built Environment in the United Kingdom project, led by PNZ Carbon Limited, is in the validation phase with Verra and has an estimated potential of approximately 100,000 tons of CO₂e reduced annually.
In Canada, the Quebec Sustainable Community (QSC) Grouped Project, developed by Solutions Will, is in the development phase with an estimated potential of 1,085,714 tons of CO₂e per year, covering the years 2025 to 2031. In the United States, the Enexor Impact USA project, led by Enexor BioEnergy and already registered since early 2026, has an estimated volume of 1,016,760 tons of CO₂e annually. Also in Canada, the Ontario Sustainable Community (OSC) program, also developed by Solutions Will, is in the registration application phase with a particularly high potential of 3,037,132 tons of CO₂e per year. Finally, the Energy Efficiency and Solid Waste Diversion Activities within the Quebec Sustainable Community project, registered and operational since 2010, represents an estimated volume of 2,285,200 tons of CO₂e per year.
Together, these projects represent a combined potential of more than 7.5 million carbon credits annually, confirming the methodology’s ambition and scalability.
Implementation challenges to overcome
Despite this significant potential, a gap remains between estimated volumes and credits issued to date. This reflects not a limitation of the methodology itself, but rather the complexity of its deployment. VM0018 programs require robust monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems—often supported by advanced digital tools—as well as strong coordination between public and private stakeholders. Additionally, carbon market cycles directly influence project development and certification timelines.
Unlike traditional industrial projects that can generate credits quickly, VM0018 programs follow a progressive growth trajectory. Credit volumes increase over time as participation expands and sustainable practices become embedded. This creates long-term, cumulative value deeply rooted in local territories—an attractive feature for investors seeking durable, high-impact assets.
A pivotal role for the carbon market
Beyond quantitative performance, these grouped projects play a structuring role in the evolution of carbon markets. They demonstrate the ability to aggregate and monetize diffuse emission reductions while enhancing credit quality and credibility. Their territorial anchoring and multi-sector approach align with growing expectations for environmental and social co-benefits. Moreover, their methodological rigor positions them as potential bridges between voluntary and compliance markets.
In this context, Solutions Will plays a key role in unlocking VM0018’s full potential. Through its expertise in project structuring, technological innovation, and community engagement, the organization demonstrates that large-scale deployment of grouped projects is achievable.
Towards a new generation of carbon solutions
Ultimately, VM0018 represents a new generation of carbon solutions—multi-sector, scalable, and designed for systemic transformation. Its unique ability to combine Scope 3 and Scope 13 makes it a powerful tool to maximize emission reductions, diversify ex-post credit sources, and structure large-scale programs. As demand for high-quality carbon credits continues to grow, VM0018 stands out as a strategic opportunity for investors, governments, and territorial stakeholders aiming to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Author and writer of the article
Martin Clermont
President