Develop a New Protocol

Project developers may create a new offset protocol if the project under development does not fit with any existing protocols and meets the principles of a high-quality offset. All new offset protocols must undergo protocol review to be approved for use through the Offsets Lab. The protocol review process involves review by the Offsets Lab Executive Committee, review by up to 3 technical experts within the academic community, and/or a period of open commenting from the academic community. The Executive Committee makes final determination for new protocols that may be approved for use. Projects that follow new protocols developed can result in Peer-Reviewed Offsets once they have gone through Peer Verification. We recommend reaching out to the Executive Committee to discuss new ideas, or email mleigh@secondnature.org for more information. 

Download the Protocol Development Pathway for more details and instructions on submitting a new protocol for review.

The flow chart outlines the general steps in developing a new protocol and completing the protocol review process:

 
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Technical Experts

If enough relevant expertise doesn’t exist on the Executive Committee, protocols will be reviewed by up to 3 technical experts within the academic community, and may need to undergo a period of open commenting within the academic community. The exact pathway for thorough review depends on the particular protocol in question. Please email mleigh@secondnature.org if you are interested in serving as a subject-matter expert for protocols. 

Download the Guide for Expert Reviewers for more details and instructions on completing a protocol review.