> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-methodology-requirements/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-methodology-requirements/context/overview.md). # Overview Delivering high quality carbon credits to the market begins with **robust and well-defined methodologies**. The OCP is designed to allow methodology developers and their panel of experts to work collaboratively to develop carbon credit methodologies that are both scientifically sound and accepted by the market. All methodologies will be slightly different, but **all methodologies must include the key sections outlined below**. If you think your methodology doesn’t require that section, you must outline the reasoning to the expert panel. * "***Must***" = requirement * "***Should***" = recommendation **Best practice in each section will depend on the specific sector**, and is constantly being improved upon by market initiatives, so we recommend looking at the resources highlighted throughout and at the end of the document, as well as relevant methodologies other developers are using. The OCP now accepts methodologies via in-platform form (vs. one PDF document), to allow for better readability, expert feedback and the ability to innovate on methodology presentation in the future. You will also get the option to add additional sections within the form. [Watch the demo videos of the methodology proposal, review, and approval process here.](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-handbook/methodologies/methodology-development-feedback-and-approval/methodology-demo-videos) Some sections outline registry processes, so we provide default text (marked in grey highlight) for you to use based on OCP procedures. You are welcome to add anything to these sections relevant to the methodology and sector. If you have any questions, or you need more assistance developing your methodology, please reach out to . {% hint style="warning" %} DISCLAIMER\ \ All methodologies are grounded in the latest scientific advancements and carbon market best practices. The Expert Panel can only operate using knowledge and research available at the time which may lead to uncertainties or knowledge gaps, and this should be considered when assessing rapidly evolving sectors or previous versions of methodologies or projects. [See more here](https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/open-carbon-protocol-knowledge-base/how-we-work/audit-process). {% endhint %} ### Alignment with Recognized Measurement Standards Methodologies must be grounded in recognized scientific and technical standards, which include [IPCC Guidelines](https://www.ipcc.ch/report/2019-refinement-to-the-2006-ipcc-guidelines-for-national-greenhouse-gas-inventories/), relevant ISO standards ([especially 16064-2](https://www.iso.org/standard/66454.html)), or equivalent peer-reviewed sources, where applicable to the activity type. Methodologies shall explicitly reference the standards or sources used and provide a transparent justification for any deviations. Detailed measurement, benchmarking, performance standards, and calculation procedures must be fully specified within the methodology at the time of submission. These elements are assessed during peer review, with expert reviewers required to determine whether the proposed approach represents a scientifically credible and conservative interpretation capable of achieving expert consensus. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://open-carbon-protocol.gitbook.io/ocp-methodology-requirements/context/overview.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.