Verra has applied the first labels confirming eligibility for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to nearly 4.8 million voluntary carbon credits, marking a significant step in linking voluntary carbon markets with regulated aviation compliance demand.

The CORSIA-eligible labels were added to credits issued by projects led by the DelAgua Group in Rwanda, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, the leading global standard setter for climate action announced on Friday.

These initiatives include clean cooking and household energy transitions that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while delivering measurable social benefits.

Relevant: Gold Standard Marks Milestone With First CORSIA-Eligible Carbon Credits

Credits that receive CORSIA labeling are clearly identified in the Verra Registry, making them available to airlines and other market participants participating in CORSIA’s first phase (2024–2026).

Verra said it expects to apply additional labels to other projects in the coming months.

Under the rules of CORSIA, which is overseen by the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), carbon credits issued from 2021 onward must carry an Article 6 Authorized – International Mitigation Purposes label before they can become CORSIA-eligible.

Verra works with host governments to review Letters of Authorization that specify eligible vintages, volumes and approval terms for these credits.

Read more: Aviation Sector Pushes For Host Authorization Under CORSIA Ahead Of 2027 Deadline

“This is a practical example of how Verra infrastructure is evolving to meet global climate goals,” said Mandy Rambharos, CEO of Verra, highlighting the organization’s effort to align voluntary standards with international compliance frameworks such as CORSIA.

DelAgua CEO Euan McDougall welcomed the designation, saying the company was the first project developer to receive a CORSIA-eligible label from Verra and that the milestone reflected years of collaboration, rigorous monitoring and a focus on environmental integrity.

CORSIA’s compliance requirement obliges international airlines to offset growth in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions above 85% of 2019 levels, creating demand for eligible credits.

Verra’s application of CORSIA labels positions its registry to supply credits that meet both the technical conditions and the market’s integrity expectations.

«Government support gives confidence in carbon markets,» Fiona Perera, Gold Standard