We have commenced work to update our approach to the audit of Gold Standard projects across our Energy, Water and Land Use & Forests scopes. This work is expected to culminate in the launch of the Gold Standard Audit Framework mid-2015.

The implementation of a new Audit Framework is driven both by concerns within the CDM market and the availability of DOEs in addition to an opportunity to improve the general approach, quality and diversity of auditors.

The Audit Framework is intended to deliver the following key features, all of which are under development and will be scrutinised by the Technical Advisory Committee and will be open to consultation:

• Creation of an ‘approved list’ of Audit Firms and individual Lead Auditors based on positive criteria (Gold Standard is currently exploring ISO options, for example).
• A greater focus on quality of audits via a auditor monitoring/management system.
• The development of an Audit Framework and Guidance documentation to give greater direction and information to Audit Firms and Project Developers.
• An element of Gold Standard training to ensure the continued focus on the Foundation’s Principles in all projects.

Should you have any queries regarding the process or potential eligibility please contact Owen Hewlett, Global Programmes Manager.

{{Please note that terms such as Audit Firms, Lead Auditors and performance criteria are representative at this stage of development and may change during the process of approvals/consultation.}}