SBP Regional Risk Assessments: A proven path to sustainable sourcing

SBP Regional Risk Assessments (RRAs) are a cornerstone of our approach to ensuring responsible feedstock sourcing for biomass production. The RRAs translate the requirements of SBP Standard 1 (Feedstock Compliance) to reflect the unique characteristics and challenges of individual sourcing regions/countries. By doing so, they help Biomass Producers evaluate and mitigate sustainability risks in a consistent and credible manner, and assist Certification Bodies to verify compliance with SBP requirements.

The importance of RRAs lies in their ability to streamline the evaluation process and enhance trust among stakeholders. Once an RRA is published for a region/country, it becomes mandatory for Certificate Holders sourcing from that region/country, replacing the need for individual risk assessments. This standardisation not only reduces administrative burdens but also ensures that all Biomass Producers in the region/country covered by an RRA are evaluated against the same criteria, fostering fairness and transparency.

Developing an RRA is a collaborative and rigorous process. It begins with a proposal, which may come from SBP, stakeholders, or external bodies. SBP evaluates these proposals based on strategic priorities and decides whether to proceed. Once approved, a Working Body of independent experts with local knowledge is formed. This team drafts the assessment, engages in stakeholder consultations, and submits the final version for public consultation and ultimately endorsement by SBP.

Funding for RRAs can come from various sources. External funding may be accepted, SBP may co-fund assessments with local sponsors, or, on occasion, assessments may be fully funded by SBP. Regardless of the source, SBP retains control over the process and outcomes to ensure independence and quality. This model allows for flexibility whilst maintaining the integrity of the assessments.

RRAs have already been developed in several regions/countries, including the United States, Canada, Vietnam, Denmark, and the Baltics. These regions/countries were selected based on factors such as biomass volume, regulatory requirements, and stakeholder interest. Each RRA is tailored to the legal, environmental, and social context of its region/country, making it a powerful tool for localised risk management.

For regions/countries where an RRA has not yet been developed, the benefits are compelling. An RRA can support local Biomass Producers with a credible and cost-effective certification pathway, and strengthen national sustainability credentials. Moreover, it positions the region/country within a global movement towards harmonised risk assessment.

Getting started with an RRA is straightforward. Interested parties can contact SBP to discuss feasibility, scope, and potential sponsorship. SBP provides comprehensive guidance, templates, and technical support throughout the process, ensuring that each RRA meets the highest standards.

In summary, SBP RRAs offer a proven path to sustainable sourcing. They provide efficiency, consistency, and credibility, while fostering stakeholder engagement and regulatory alignment. For regions/countries looking to enhance their biomass sector, developing an RRA is a strategic and impactful step forward.