Framework for including new methodologies in the code - pilot version 0.2

There are a number of steps to developing a new methodology. This pilot framework provides clarity on the necessary steps. We would expect that new proposals would follow this process, although there is some flexibility. This framework will be piloted with new methodologies and revised as necessary following testing/feedback following pilot use.

The Woodland Carbon Code executive board reserves the right to reject or suggest any amendments to any proposed methodology at each of the key decision points. Any method already established/developed for another ICROA endorsed standard could potentially skip some of the stages in the process, provided it is proven that there is sufficient evidence of the applicability to the UK context.

1. Concept note

The method developer submits initial a ‘concept note’ to the Woodland Carbon Code secretariat at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

2. Concept note decision

The secretariat will review concept note and submit it to executive board with recommendations to either:

1. Approve the method to be developed as proposed
2. Suggest amends or suggest solutions where there are potential overlaps with other methodologies already implemented or under consideration
3. Reject the request for methodology development

3. Draft method development

If approved, the method developer develops methodology and submits it to the secretariat which includes the main criteria to be addressed in the review. See the list of issues to be considered in a new methodology proposal (pdf). 

4. Executive board draft method decision

The secretariat will review the proposed methodology and submit it to executive board for approval to move to the next stage.

5. Expert consultation

The secretariat will lead consultation with the following groups/organisations for input:

• The Woodland Carbon Code advisory board
• Accredited validation/verification bodies and United Kingdom Accreditation Service. If the method is simple this can be done during regular meetings, if it is more complex, the validator/ United Kingdom Accreditation Service review may incur a charge to the methodology developer
• Registry provider (S&P Global) to ensure new project/methodology type is accommodated.
• Other experts. We may form a technical group or engage other experts as necessary depending on methodology proposed. Technical review could incur a cost from experts
• Country forestry regulation teams (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland)

 During this process the secretariat will liaise with the methodology developer to incorporate comments/recommendations. 

6. Executive board pilot method decision

The secretariat will review the developed ‘pilot-stage methodology’ with executive board to ensure they are happy it moves to the ‘pilot’ stage.

7. Pilot stage

There are two stages:

1. The methodology developer will trial the validation of an agreed number of project(s) using the new methodology with an agreed validator.
2. Feedback from validator/ the United Kingdom Accreditation Service, registry provider and secretariat are incorporated into ‘final methodology’.

8. Executive board final decision

The secretariat will share final methodology proposal with executive board for final approval.

9. Final methodology publication/ incorporation

There are two stages:

1. The secretariat will incorporate the new methodology into the Woodland Carbon Code website, the Code and the Guidance at the next regular update to the code.
2. The methodology will then be open for use by other interested project developers.