🗣️Grievance policy

Purpose and Commitment:

The International Carbon Registry (ICR) is committed to addressing and resolving grievances effectively and efficiently. This policy provides a structured approach for handling complaints and appeals related to ICR's operations, decisions, or conduct.

Scope of Application:

The policy applies to grievances from all stakeholders, including project proponents, registry users, validation and verification bodies, local communities, and unrelated third parties. The policy covers objections to ICR decisions, claims of adverse effects from program rules, or disputes during project activities.

Definitions:

Complaint: An expression of dissatisfaction related to ICR's program or decisions.

Appeal: A formal request to reconsider an ICR decision.

Appeal Committee: A committee that considers any appeals.

Authorized Representative: An entity authorized to communicate on behalf of the complainant.

Complaint Process

Eligibility: Grievances must relate to ICR's activities or decisions.

Submission: Complaints should be submitted with full details, including contact information, the nature of the grievance, and relevant project identification.

Confidentiality: Complainants can request anonymity, which may limit ICR's ability to resolve the issue.

Processing: Complaints are logged, acknowledged, and tracked. ICR will investigate and respond within a specified timeline.

Appeal Process

If dissatisfied with the complaint resolution, stakeholders may file an appeal. Appeals must include detailed reasons for the objection and any new information. The Appeals committee will review the appeal and respond to the appellant in a written response.

The decision made by the Appeals Committee is final and not eligible for further appeal.

Legal

This Policy is not intended to substitute, circumvent, or override the legal rights of any party within its local jurisdiction to use judicial mechanisms where available and appropriate.

Confidentiality

All information submitted by the Complainant concerning the Complaint and any Appeal (if applicable) will be kept confidential by ICR if the Complainant or Appellant requests that confidentiality be maintained.

Policy Review and Improvement

ICR will regularly review and update this policy to ensure its effectiveness and relevance. Stakeholder feedback on the grievance process will be considered for continuous improvement.