The Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) has published version 2.1 of its SBP Standards, introducing targeted updates to sustainability safeguards, audit consistency and alignment with the EU Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII).
The updated standards build on practical experience from the rollout of v2.0, incorporating lessons from certification audits, normative interpretations and stakeholder consultation.
Key changes include reinforced alignment with EU REDIII requirements, clearer safeguards for sustainable feedstock sourcing, and improved governance and data integrity across the scheme.
The update also clarifies risk management pathways, including the use of Company Risk Assessments where no Regional Risk Assessment is available.
The core risk-based certification framework remains in place, with the overall structure of the standards retained.
V2.1 comes into effect on 29 July 2026, with a transition period running until 28 October 2027, during which certificate holders can prepare and align updates with their normal audit cycle. Audits against the new version may only be conducted once a certification body has formally updated its accreditation scope.
Carsten Huljus, SBP chief executive, said the publication represented "an important milestone", adding that the updates "strengthen confidence in the sustainability and integrity of biomass supply chains, whilst maintaining the risk-based approach that underpins our scheme."
Sustainable Biomass Program publishes updated certification standards
