The audit process
Ensuring integrity through independent oversight
The audit process is where trust is earned. Our multi-layered assurance system guarantees that SBP-certified biomass is verified against strict sustainability criteria – so integrity is never assumed, it’s proven.
Ensuring integrity through rigorous assurance
At SBP, integrity and credibility are at the heart of our certification scheme. We have built a multi-layered assurance framework designed to give stakeholders complete confidence in the sustainability of biomass products carrying the SBP claim. This framework combines independent third-party accreditation, ongoing monitoring, robust auditor training, and clear procedures for addressing non-conformities and complaints.
Our approach is grounded in industry best practices, following the ISEAL Code of Good Practice for Sustainability Systems (the ISEAL Code), and strengthened by rigorous third-party verification. This commitment ensures that SBP remains a trusted marker of responsible biomass sourcing and sustainability.
Independent third party oversight
Independence is fundamental to trust in the SBP certification scheme. SBP certification audits are conducted by independent Certification Bodies that have no affiliation with SBP or with the organisations seeking certification.
All Certification Bodies operating within the SBP scheme are accredited and overseen by an independent Accreditation Body in accordance with ISO/IEC 17065, the international standard for organisations certifying products, processes and services. This ensures that certification activities are delivered with demonstrated competence, impartiality and consistency.
Where certification includes the verification of energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) data, Certification Bodies are additionally required to operate in accordance with ISO 14065, the international standard for bodies validating and verifying environmental information.
Audit planning and delivery follow the principles set out in ISO 19011, which provides internationally recognised guidance on auditing practices, auditor competence and evidence‑based decision‑making.
Together, these standards provide independent oversight and assurance that SBP certification outcomes are credible, transparent and aligned with international best practice.
Continuous monitoring and accountability
Accredited Certification Bodies undergo ongoing oversight, including annual office audits, surveillance assessments, and witness audits during certification activities. Any non-compliance triggers immediate corrective actions, with sanctions ranging from suspension to withdrawal of accreditation if issues remain unresolved. This rigorous system ensures that certification remains credible and reliable.
Auditor expertise and training
We require auditors to meet the highest professional standards. SBP Standard 3 sets strict qualification and training requirements, supported by our official auditor training programme. Delivered through a blend of online modules and live sessions, the course covers SBP’s framework, biomass sector fundamentals, GHG calculations, and market-specific requirements such as EU RED.
To maintain alignment and share best practices, SBP hosts bi-annual Certification Body Summits and additional calibration sessions when Standards evolve. Technical support is always available to Certification Bodies and the Accreditation Body.
Comprehensive and transparent audits
Our audit requirements are thorough and transparent. Certification Bodies verify compliance with all SBP Standards, including responsible sourcing, Chain of Custody, and sustainability criteria. Auditors review documentation, interview stakeholders, and conduct on-site evaluations to ensure management systems are effective. Surveillance audits occur annually, with at least four evaluations during a five-year certification cycle. Major non-conformities must be resolved within 90 days or result in suspension, while minor issues must be corrected within one year.
Peer review for consistency
To uphold quality and consistency, we operate a Peer Review process for audit reports and certification decisions. This collaborative approach drives continuous improvement across Certification Bodies.