UEBT’s standard
UEBT defines practices that respect people and biodiversity in the way ingredients from biodiversity are grown or collected. The UEBT standard is used to independently check that these practices are systemically applied. This is done through our supply chain assessments as part of the UEBT verification and certification programmes, with the aim of driving continuous improvements in cultivation and wild collection practices.
The UEBT standard is not only used in verification and certification. It is also the core of all UEBT programmes, including
our guidance and tools for advancing sourcing with respect on the ground, including on responsible sourcing due diligence
our work promoting technical support projects in sourcing areas
our work to promote regenerative practices and climate resilience in landscapes
our work to promote human rights due diligence in sourcing areas, including our promotion of living wages and incomes
The UEBT standard is also used as the basis for companies to join UEBT as members. They must meet minimum requirements in the standard and make additional commitments in line with its principles.
Watch a 90 second video on the UEBT standard
The UEBT standard covers these important issues:
Biodiversity conservation and restoration
Cultivation and wild collection practices for sustainable use of biodiversity
Human and workers’ rights
Community well being and local development
Companies and other organisations use the standard to promote good practices in their operations and along their supply chains – all the way to the cultivation or wild collection sites.
The UEBT standard builds on the BioTrade Principles and Criteria as developed by the UNCTAD BioTrade Initiative.
It was revised in 2020 after a comprehensive consultation with a wide range of company, community and civil society stakeholders.
UEBT is reviewing the standard in 2025.
Guidance available on UEBT standard’s requirements
We have developed guidance for companies and other stakeholders on requirements in the UEBT standard. Each factsheet zooms into the criteria and gives tips and examples for what companies might encounter and how to overcome common challenges.
Resources
UEBT standard - full version
Factsheet on UEBT standard
UEBT is ISEAL Code Compliant. Our system has been independently evaluated against ISEAL’s Codes of Good Practice. More information at isealalliance.org.