Procedures for VVBs

All requirements for VVB application and accredited VVBs can be found in the Requirements for Validation and Verification Bodies.

By accepting the audit assignment, the accredited VVB agrees to:

• declare whether impartiality and independence are compromised (this may be the case if the auditor is already in a relationship with the Project Developer)

• Comply with and sign a copy of Riverse's Conflict of Interest Policy.

• comply with and sign a copy of Requirements for VVB

• allow Riverse to disclose the results of the audit, the name of the firm, and the names of the people involved in the audit

• respect confidentiality clauses with Project Developers (on processes, materials, quantities)

Remote auditing

Remote audits (those that do not include a physical site visit by an auditor) can optimize audit efficiency while maintaining the integrity of the audit process. The objective of a remote audit is to establish confidence in the VVB certification process by direct observations carried out through an electronic medium:

• Videographic evidence is required for remote audits. The video should allow the VVB to confirm that each component is true, and will typically consist of a tour of the site with commentary.

• Formats may include video calls with the auditors or pre-recorded videos.

The use of remote assessments by VVB of a given project may be requested in site validation assessment. Additional remote audits for verification are at the discretion of the VVB, who is entitled to reject any request from PDs.

If the remote audit does not allow the VVB to to audit all elements deemed necessary, the remaining issues should be recorded and documented.

Sequential verifications

To maintain impartiality and credibility, and reduce complacency and bias, a single VVB may conduct a maximum of three (3) sequential verifications for a specific project.

Upon reaching the sequential verification limit with a VVB, the PD shall be granted a transition period of six (6) months to engage a new VVB for the subsequent verification.

PDs must maintain comprehensive records of all verifications, including the VVBs involved, to demonstrate compliance with this rule.

Regular audits will be conducted to ensure PDs adhere to this rule. Non-compliance may result in penalties or suspension of the project's validation status.

Performance review

Regular performance reviews ensure that VVBs consistently uphold their responsibilities, for accurate and impartial verification, as detailed in the Requirements for Validation and Verification Bodies.

The following metrics will be employed to evaluate a VVB's performance:

• Timeliness: Adherence to stipulated timelines for project verification.

• Accuracy: Correctness of verification processes, calculations, and conclusions.

• Consistency: Uniform application of standards and methodologies across different projects.

• Communication: Effectiveness and clarity in communication with PDs and other stakeholders.

• Integrity: Adherence to ethical guidelines, including conflict of interest declarations

Each VVB is required to submit an annual Performance Report that details its activities, challenges, and areas of improvement relating to its work with the Riverse validation and verification process. This report should provide insights into the VVB's verification approach, methodologies employed, and training undertaken.

Project Developers are asked to provide feedback on the VVB's performance after each validation and verification process, as part of the Riverse satisfaction survey. This feedback is considered in the VVB performance review.

The Standard Secretariat annually reviews the annual Performance Reports and assess VVBs based on the established performance metrics. VVBs are encouraged to continually enhance their skills, methodologies, and processes. Training resources, workshops, and seminars specific to the Riverse Standard will be provided to support this endeavor.