Woodland Carbon Code - Version 3

The Woodland Carbon Code team has developed a new version of the code. 

The update reflects our commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring the code remains clear, accessible and aligned with global and national standards.   

It builds on the results of research commissioned by Defra as well as our recent consultation on additionality. It also incorporates feedback from project developers and validation and verification bodies.  

The improvements will help to maintain the code’s reputation as a high-integrity carbon standard, informed by the latest data and industry best practices.  

The consultation on version 3 is now closed. Thank you to everyone who shared their views. 

You can read the consultation documents below. 

• Consultation response report
• Individual responses
• Consultation document
• Draft standard - version 3
• Draft standard - version 3 (redline)
• Draft survey protocol - version 3
• Draft cashflow - version 3
• Draft guidance for project changes
• Privacy notice

We hosted a webinar on Tuesday 6 May to discuss the main changes in version 3. You can watch the recording below. 

Following the consultation, we considered all comments and feedback in finalising the new version. 

Woodland Carbon Code version 3.0 was launched on Friday 1 August 2025. 

Projects already in development can continue to submit for validation or verification using Version 2.2 until 30 June 2026, giving an 11-month transition period.

If you have any questions, please email us at info@woodlandcarboncode.org.uk