The Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) has today announced the public consultation on SBP Standards v2.1. Building on the foundation of SBP Standards v2.0, launched in May 2023, v2.1 reflects feedback gathered from auditors, Certificate Holders, and stakeholders during the transition period.
This update consolidates all normative interpretations and clarifications from Q&As, gathered from feedback on v2.0, directly into the Standards, enhancing the intent and application of the indicators and clauses. With all relevant information now integrated in a streamlined version of the Standards, users will no longer need to consult multiple documents.
Further, v2.1 reinforces alignment with EU REDIII requirements, underscoring SBP’s commitment to delivering credible and practical sustainability solutions through effective implementation.
Key enhancements include:
- Targeted updates across five Standards (SBP Standards 1 to 5): 13 new indicators/clauses and 42 revised indicators/clauses to strengthen risk management and improve clarity.
- Expanded glossary: 74 new and 20 revised definitions, including terms related to agricultural biomass, cascading use, and REDIII sustainability criteria.
- Improved governance and certification processes: Clearer rules for Supply Base Evaluation, auditor qualifications, and certificate validity extensions.
- Data Transfer System improvements: New timelines for transaction registration and acceptance.
- EU REDIII alignment: Stronger safeguards for no-go areas such as primary forests, old-growth forests, heathlands, and updated Chain of Custody provisions for RED-compliant claims.
SBP Standard 6 remains unchanged but its scope for greenhouse gas emissions certification is reaffirmed.
Following endorsement and publication in 2026, an 18-month transition period will ensure smooth implementation for all Certificate Holders.
Carsten Huljus, SBP CEO commented, “SBP Standards v2.1 represent an evolution, not a revolution. These changes strengthen clarity and reinforce alignment with regulatory requirements, whilst maintaining the integrity and practicality of SBP certification.”
The public consultation will run from 15 December 2025 to 30 January 2026, and SBP invites all interested and impacted parties to participate and share their views.
To make the consultation process more efficient and engaging, we have launched a new interactive consultation platform. The platform provides access to all supporting documents, including downloadable files and a dynamic side-by-side, line-by-line comparison of SBP Standards v2.0 and v2.1. This feature allows you to easily review changes and understand the rationale behind them. Please use the feedback tool within the platform to share your comments and contribute to the consultation.
