Framework for inclusion of new methodologies in the WCC

New methodolgies under consideration

Framework for inclusion of new methodologies in the WCC - 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 WCC Executive Board reserve 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

Method Developer submits initial ‘concept note’ to the WCC Secretariat - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

2. Concept Note Decision

The WCC Secretariat will review concept note and submit to WCCEB with recommendations to either:

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

3. Draft Method development

If approved, Method Developer develops methodology & submits to WCC Secretariat which includes main criteria to be addressed in review. See the list of Issues to be considered in a new methodology proposal (pdf). 

4. WCCEB Draft Method Decision

The WCC Secretariat will review the proposed methodology and submit to the WCCEB for approval to move to the next stage.

5. Expert Consultation

The WCC Secretariat will lead consultation with the following groups/organisations for input. During this process the WCC Secretariat will liaise with the methodology developer to incorporate comments/recommendations:

• WCC Advisory Board
• Accredited Validation/Verification Bodies and UKAS (Note if the method is simple this can be done during regular meetings, if more complex, the validator/UKAS 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 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)

6. WCCEB Pilot Method Decision

The WCC Secretariat will review the developed ‘pilot-stage methodology’ with the WCCEB to ensure they are happy it moves to the ‘pilot’ stage.

7. Pilot Stage

There are two stages:

1. 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/ UKAS, registry provider and WCC Secretariat are incorporated into ‘final methodology’.

8. WCCEB Final decision

The WCC Secretariat will share final methodology proposal with the WCCEB for final approval.

9. Final methodology publication/ incorporation

There are two stages:

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

New Methodologies Under Consideration

 1. Agroforestry Carbon:  Status - Concept Note Approved Nov 2022

• The Agroforestry Carbon Code is being developed by a consortium led by The Soil Association, with funding from the Natural Environment Investment Readiness Fund.  Find out more.

2. Woodland Water Credits:  Status - Concept Note Approved Jan 2023

• The Woodland for Water Code is being developed by a consortium led by Forest Research, with funding from the Defra's Nature for Climate R&D Fund. The consortium will consider how to develop woodland water credits, initially nutrient credits, and whether/how these can be stacked with woodland carbon credits.
• Towards a Woodland for Water Code - Exploring Options (March 2022) - pdf