Appointments Policy

Version 0.9

1. Introduction and Scope

This document outlines the appointments process for the Nature Climate Standard (NCS), a non-profit foundation. The policy governs appointments to the Board of Directors, Supervisory Board, Committees, and the Expert Network. NCS prioritises transparency, inclusivity, and alignment with its mission to advance climate action and biodiversity conservation.

2. Board of Directors Appointments

The Board of Directors oversees the strategic direction and operations of NCS. Appointments are made as follows:

Nomination Process

• Candidates may be nominated by existing Directors or external stakeholders.

• Nominations are reviewed by the Supervisory Board to ensure alignment with NCS’s mission.

Criteria for Appointment

• Expertise in climate science, policy, governance, or other relevant fields.

• Demonstrated commitment to the foundation’s goals.

Approval

• Final appointments are approved by the Supervisory Board.

3. Supervisory Board Appointments

The Supervisory Board ensures accountability and compliance within NCS. Appointments are conducted as follows:

Nomination and Selection

• Supervisory Board members are selected based on their ability to provide independent oversight.

• Candidates are vetted to ensure no conflicts of interest and strong alignment with NCS’s non-profit and environmental objectives.

Appointment

• New members are appointed by existing Supervisory Board members, with input from the Board of Directors.

4. Committee Appointments

Committees may be established to focus on specific aspects of NCS’s operations, such as methodology revisions or changes in the project registration process. Appointment processes include:

Formation

• Committees are created by the Board of Directors or Supervisory Board as needed.

Membership

• Members are selected for their relevant expertise, including internal staff, Expert Network members or external collaborators.

• Efforts are made to ensure diversity of thought and experience.

Approval

• Appointments are subject to approval by the initiating body (Board of Directors or Supervisory Board).

5. Expert Network

The NCS maintains a standing network of subject matter experts to provide insights and guidance on methodologies. Appointments to the network follow these steps:

Application and Nomination:

• Experts can apply via email to the NCS or be nominated by existing members or stakeholders.

Review and Evaluation

• Applications are reviewed by the NCS Board of Directors or relevant committee based on credentials, expertise, and alignment with the foundation’s mission.

Engagement

• Accepted members sign an engagement agreement, committing to the NCS Code of Conduct, which includes transparency, respectful communication, and evidence-based collaboration.

6. Governance Structure

• The Supervisory Board provides strategic oversight, ensuring alignment with foundation goals.

• The Board of Directors leads operations, upholding quality and ethical standards.‌

• The Expert Network is composed of scientists and experts capable of assessing methodologies and cases of reversals.

• Committees are formed for specific tasks, such as development of a new methodology or a large revision of the standard.