projects that use this very powerful new methodology."

The VM0021 Soil Carbon Quantification Methodology is based on decades of soil carbon research and testing conducted by top soil scientists. The methodology was developed by The Earth Partners and verified by Environmental Services, Inc. as well as SCS Global Services. It is the first soil carbon methodology to be approved for use under the VCS.

"This widely tested methodology is the first to specially deal with soils in a market," said Steven I. Apfelbaum, Chairman of Applied Ecological Services, Inc. and Director of Science with The Earth Partners. According to Apfelbaum, soils represent the second largest living sink of carbon on the planet.

1. The new methodology is assessed according to　　　　　.

A. The Earth Partners　　　　 B. the Verified Carbon Standard

C. Environmental Services, Inc.　 D. Applied Ecological Services, Inc.

2. Carbon sequestration in soil can be strengthened by　　　　　.

A. selling carbon credits in the voluntary market

B. changing grazing practices and operating treatments

C. reducing the variety and productivity of plant groups

D. decreasing farmlands in the Pacific Northwest

3. Which of the following is true according to the passage?

A. The VCS program proves to be successful in carbon offset projects.

B. Many soil Carbon Methodologies have already been approved for use.

C. The new methodology has been tested in many fields including soil.