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URBAN BIODIVERSITY STANDARD

The UBS is an innovative, voluntary, and inclusive initiative, welcoming participation from cities, project developers, researchers, standard setters, framework developers, verification bodies, and all biodiversity market players, including buyers, sellers, traders, investors, philanthropists, and financiers.

As a science-based standard, the UBS supports rigorous analysis of tree and shrub species to ensure the right selections are used to address specific environmental and social challenges. This approach helps mitigate urban issues such as the heat island effect, air pollution, flooding, and drought by carefully choosing species that provide essential ecosystem services.

URBAN BIODIVERSITY CREDITS (UBCs)
The UBS defines an Urban Biodiversity Credit (UBC) as a digital or non-digital asset that represents an increase in vegetation coverage. There are two types of UBCs: biodiversity credits, which focus on enhancing biodiversity itself, and ecosystem services credits, which are tied to the specific environmental benefits provided by the vegetation, such as improved air quality or flood mitigation.
WHAT THE STANDARD DOES
  • Measures urban biodiversity and its capacity to provide ecosystem services in the urban environment.
  • Encourages investment in projects that enhance biodiversity.
  • Defines the concept of Urban Biodiversity Credits, creating a measurable framework for urban biodiversity.
  • Integrates advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain for real-time monitoring of biodiversity gains and associated ecosystem services.
  • Supports the development of a scalable biodiversity credit market, ensuring fair pricing and measurable environmental impact.
Although the Standard is primarily focused on cities, peri-urban areas, and islands, it can also be applied to natural ecosystems, providing a flexible tool for diverse urban and natural settings.
The Urban Biodiversity Standard (UBS) is an inclusive, voluntary initiative open to all stakeholders. It offers a comprehensive framework for evaluating urban biodiversity and its ecosystem services. By aligning investments with the social needs of urban areas, the UBS supports the development of a credible and scalable biodiversity credits market, complementing global efforts to protect and enhance urban ecosystems.
For more details, you can download the full document here
PROMOTERS

The Nature&People Foundation is supported by key promoters who have played significant roles in the development of the Urban Biodiversity Standard and the foundation’s broader program. These organizations have contributed expertise, resources, and leadership, ensuring the success of our initiatives.

Greenville, based in the United Kingdom, is one of the main promoters of the Standard and the Foundation’s program. Greenville has financed the development of the Standard.
EverTree, a Spanish company, has played a leading role in the development of the Standard and its methodology. It is also one of the main promoters of the Foundation’s program.
Balearia, a company headquartered in Spain, has provided crucial support in the development of the Standard and its methodology. Balearia is also a key promoter of the Foundation's program.
Mishcon de Reya LLP is an international law firm with offices in London, Cambridge, Oxford, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Mishcon Purpose, the firm’s dedicated sustainability division, has played a leading role in the development of the Standard and the Foundation, focusing on their legal structure and governance.