There are a number of different types of certificates on the CO2 market. For Swiss Post, only those that meet the most stringent requirements are acceptable. Specialists (under the aegis of the WWF) characterize these as Gold Standard. The Gold Standard is an independently managed label that guarantees the integrity of the projects in terms of their eco-balance sheet and sustainable development.
The Gold Standard ensures that the offsetting projects really result in a reduction in greenhouse gases and promote sustainable development in the respective country. All projects are evaluated and inspected by independent auditors in terms of additionality of carbon offset, renewable energies, energy efficiency and sustainability. Moreover, the local population is involved in the project.