We are working on a range of development and improvement projects to support users of the code.
Use of remote sensing for monitoring
Through the CivTech process, we’re working with two companies to investigate the use of satellite-based data and low-cost sensors to help improve the frequency, accuracy and transparency of our monitoring protocols.
Biomass carbon
Forest Research is working on an updated version of the model that supports the carbon calculator. This will provide improved predictions based on the best available and more comprehensive data sources. The updated model will allow for predictions for a wider range of spacings up to five metres (400 stems per hectare) for all species. Predictions will also be supported by indications of levels of supporting data, confidence and uncertainty.
In addition to improving models to predict woodland carbon sequestration, we will review and make data available on the carbon stock of other types of non-tree vegetation.
Soil carbon
With the support of our project developers and landowners, Forest Research has collected soil carbon data at more than 140 Woodland Carbon Code projects, comparing a ‘control’ site (the previous land use) with new planting aged 1 to 20 years old. This work is ongoing.
Forest Research is collating this information with other studies to create a library of soil carbon measurements for all scenarios of planting method, soil type, forest management type and tree species. We hope to develop a more detailed soil carbon calculator, like the biomass carbon calculator, based on this data.
Through the CivTech project, we are also investigating the use of low-cost sensors to give information on changes to soil carbon and would like to develop a soil carbon measurement methodology.
Improved registry and workflow management
We are currently re-tendering for a provider for the UK Land Carbon Registry and hope to improve the functionality of the system in the next iteration. We plan to go live with the new registry in summer 2026.
Through the CivTech process, we are also working with a company to provide improved and streamlined workflow management tools. This should reduce the administration burden for preparing documents and having them validated and verified. It will also provide a platform to visualise remotely sensed monitoring data. We will continue to develop the workflow management tools during 2025 and 2026.
Small woods
We made changes to the small woods process in version 3.0 of the standard. This includes increasing the ‘threshold’ for being able to use the small woods process to ten hectares. We will continue to look for further options to improve accessibility for small woods.
Clarity over buffer rules
Over the last year, we have created template agreements for buying and selling carbon units. These will improve confidence among buyers and sellers, helping them to understand the risks and liabilities.
Next, we plan to review and improve our guidance on the Woodland Carbon Code buffer and how reversal of carbon sequestration is accounted for when things do not go to plan with woodland carbon projects.
Models for investment in Pending Issuance Units
We are aware of various proposals to develop and encourage infrastructure for early and credible investment in Pending Issuance Units. We plan to investigate this further with academics and interested investors.
Community engagement and benefits
During 2024 and 2025, a Facility for Investment Readiness in Scotland project developed requirements projects could use to quantify the level of community engagement and community benefit they provide. Scottish Land Commission has also published a community benefits routemap. We will review this work and consider whether it is appropriate to incorporate into the standard.