Verra re-certifies controversial Kenya carbon credits project despite ongoing criticism from Survival International

Verra has re-certified a disputed carbon credits project in Kenya for the second time, drawing renewed criticism from Survival International. The project, which involves rangeland management and avoided deforestation, has been accused of harming local Maasai communities and failing to deliver real emissions reductions. Critics argue the re-certification undermines trust in carbon markets and raises questions about Verra's verification standards. Survival International, an advocacy group for indigenous peoples, says the project has led to land grabs and displacement without meaningful community consent. The group has called for a halt to the scheme and an independent review. The re-certification comes as voluntary carbon markets face growing scrutiny over offset quality and social impacts. For carbon market participants, this case highlights the tension between scaling offset supply and ensuring integrity. Projects that lack robust community engagement or fail to prove additionality risk damaging the credibility of the entire market. Verra has defended its process but the controversy is unlikely to fade.