> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.rainbowstandard.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.rainbowstandard.io/~/changes/180/rainbow-standard-documents/rainbow-standard-rules.md).

# Rainbow Standard Rules

| **Document name** | Rainbow Standard Rules |
| ----------------- | ---------------------- |
| **Document type** | Standard document      |
| **Version**       | 7.0                    |
| **Release date**  | January 16th, 2026     |
| **Status**        | In use                 |

## **Purpose of this document**

This document outlines the objectives of the Rainbow Standard and sets the general requirement for Project Developers for registering and operating Rainbow projects and issuing Rainbow Carbon Credits (RCC).

It should be used together with the latest versions of the [Rainbow Procedures Manual](/~/changes/180/rainbow-standard-documents/procedures-manual.md), [Methodologies](/~/changes/180/rainbow-standard-documents/methodologies.md), and all other documentation found on this site.

## Language

In all Rainbow documentation, including the present Rainbow Standard Rules, [Rainbow Procedures Manual](/~/changes/180/rainbow-standard-documents/procedures-manual.md), and [Methodologies](/~/changes/180/rainbow-standard-documents/methodologies.md), the following terms are to be interpreted as:

* **Shall** and **must**: a requirement
* **Should**: a recommendation
* **May**: an option, permissible
* **Is** and **will**: in the context of Rainbow, standard operational procedures

{% content-ref url="/pages/D1bECpowUAiJorSGzbQY" %}
[Glossary](/~/changes/180/glossary.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}


---

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