The National Landscapes Association has updated its Ethical Charter to align with the BSI Flex 701 standards for nature markets.

Sponsored by Defra and produced in partnership with a range of stakeholders from across the environmental, retail and financial sectors, along with other government departments, these standards provide clear measures of quality and integrity for all parties involved in nature markets.

As the markets continue to evolve and strengthen, these standards bring consistency, transparency and credibility.

As part of launching its anticipated platform for nature project funding Your Natural Partner, the National Landscapes Association produced its own Ethical Charter which it launched in September 2024.

These standards were conceived with the support of Finance Earth and through consultation with National Landscape teams and stakeholders, as well as assessing those of other organisations to align and adjust where appropriate.

Hannah Wilcox Brooke, Head of Nature-based Solutions at the National Landscapes Association, said: “As the first team dedicated to unlocking private finance for the National Landscapes network, a robust set of ethical standards was our top priority from day one. We represent some of the most trusted and dedicated conservation organisations in the UK, so it’s critical that any partnership we develop is of the highest integrity. National Landscapes exist to safeguard nature and people for the future, and these standards ensure any privately funded program of work is aligned with this responsibility.”

The principles produced covered many of the key bases later ratified by the BSI, showing a strong sense on all sides of what is needed to deliver high integrity nature projects through blended green finance models.

A huge thanks to the BSI team and all those involved in bringing these nature markets standards to life.