Peatland Code

Launched in 2015, the Peatland Code is a voluntary certification standard developed and managed by the IUCN UK Peatland Programme. It plays a pivotal role in the fight against climate change by providing a rigorous, science-backed framework for generating independently verified carbon credits from peatland restoration. It ensures that restoration projects deliver real, measurable climate benefits. Currently work is also underway to quantify the biodiversity uplift of Peatland Code projects in a robust way. Using the Peatland Code means investing in nature-based solutions that benefit people, planet, and biodiversity.

The Peatland Code is a key component of the wider work of the IUCN UK Peatland Programme (IUCN UK PP), which has been promoting the restoration and sustainable management of UK peatlands since 2009. Through strong science, sound policy, effective practice, and collaborative partnerships, the Programme advocates for the many benefits peatlands offer from biodiversity and water quality to climate resilience.

Peatland Code introduction video (https://youtu.be/aIGJkt9C_k4?si=N92OF4RJ22l6Yb3P)

History of the Peatland Code

Pilot (2012 -2015)

In 2012, a Defra‑funded pilot as part of the UK Government’s Payment for Ecosystem Services programme tested how private finance could help support peatland restoration. By 2013, pilot projects were underway across England, Wales and Scotland, including work supported by Scotland’s Peatland ACTION Programme. These early projects helped shape how carbon benefits from peatland restoration could be measured and valued.
The insights from these pilots informed Defra‑commissioned research to develop robust carbon metrics and financial models for peatland restoration. This work directly led to the creation of Peatland Code v1.

Peatland Code V1 and 1.2 (2015-2022)

The Peatland Code was formally launched in 2015 at the World Forum for Natural Capital in Edinburgh. The IUCN UK Peatland Programme played a key role in bringing together the partnerships needed to develop, test and pilot the Code.
Development of the Code involved a wide range of experts, including government scientists, academics, land managers, carbon market specialists and standard developers. Research and field testing were used to ensure the Code was practical, science‑based and credible this lead to Peatland Code v1.1 being published along with a separate filed protocol.
In 2020 the UK Land Carbon Registry was launched - a joint registry for Peatland Code Woodland Carbon Code projects.

Peatland Code V2 (2023)

In 2022, Version 1.2 of the Peatland Code was launched. The UK Accreditation Service (UKAS) confirmed that this version met international standards for environmental verification (ISO 14065).
In 2023, the Peatland Code was updated to Version 2, expanding the Code to include fens, updating emission factors, and enabling more peatland projects to take part.
These updates were informed by Defra‑funded research led by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, ensuring the Peatland Code remains aligned with the UK Greenhouse Gas Inventory and supports accurate national climate reporting.

Peatland 2.1 (2024)

In November 2024 version 2.1 of the Peatland Code was published to strengthen the language in line with ISO standards, have a dedicated scheme document for validators and improved guidance for project developers. UKAS is currently assessing the latest versions of the Code to ensure it continues to conform to the ISO standards and to meet international best practice.