Why biodiversity assurance matters
Billions of dollars are flowing into restoration, but biodiversity accountability has not kept pace. Most projects are still measured on inputs – trees planted, hectares reported – rather than whether ecosystems are actually recovering. Poorly designed restoration can actively harm biodiversity, and without independent verification, there is no way to tell the difference.
The Global Biodiversity Standard (TGBS) is an independent assurance standard that assesses whether biodiversity outcomes in nature-based restoration projects and programmes are credible, appropriate, and improving over time. A not-for-profit organisation, TGBS works alongside existing standards and finance mechanisms, without delivering projects or issuing credits.
How it works
TGBS assessments are carried out by locally embedded ecological experts, scientists and practitioners with deep knowledge of their own ecosystems, landscapes, and restoration contexts. The methodology was developed by leading organisations in biodiversity science and ecological restoration, building on robust, internationally recognised frameworks, and is listed in the TNFD Tools Catalogue.
TGBS certifies terrestrial, freshwater, and coastal project sites for their positive biodiversity outcomes, covering land and water management initiatives from habitat restoration and tree planting to agroforestry and agricultural land management.
The full methodology is set out in the TGBS Manual, available in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Our values
Our mission is to halt the biodiversity crisis. We:
- Protect and restore biodiversity
- Draw on the knowledge of trusted local and international experts
- Are objective and independent
- Are accessible and equitable
TGBS exists because restoration done well is one of the most powerful tools available to address the biodiversity and climate crises. Independent assurance is how we ensure it is done well.
Our partners
The standard is supported by the tried and tested expertise of the global botanical and ecological restoration community, including our Technical & Regional Hub partners:
Join us
TGBS is now operational across 15 countries. Whether you are a funder, government, investor, project developer, or potential partner, we welcome a conversation about how TGBS can support your goals.
