Proforest publishes its generic Verified Deforestation and Conversion Free (V-DCF) methodology

Proforest has produced a generic methodology to provide the agricultural commodities sector with an aligned approach that will enable greater transparency and therefore trust in the process. 

Achieving deforestation and conversion-free supply chains is crucial to meeting company commitments on climate, nature and people. However, claims of deforestation and conversion free (DCF) and verified deforestation and conversion free (V-DCF) sourcing are made by actors at different stages of supply chains and for multiple commodities. As a result of this proliferation, different approaches are currently being used, resulting in a lack of alignment and transparency. 

Proforest has built on its work with many different companies and key partners, including AFi, CDP, Trase, to develop a generic overview to allow alignment across commodities and supply chain position. 

The published methodology walks through four key steps in confirming DCF and V-DCF: 

1. Trace back to production area at a scale needed to confirm status 
2. Confirm production area was not converted after the cut-off date 
3. Monitor remaining natural vegetation and respond to new conversion 
4. Verify the methodology, data and claims are credible and accurate 

The high-level framework then looks at implementation options for demonstrating DCF and V-DCF. 

The detailed DCF methodology for every commodity will vary depending on factors such as location, size of producer, production system, ecosystem impacted etc. Therefore, for each commodity the methodology elements need to be developed in detail for all implementation options being used. However, the generic framework does allow for alignment, transparency and consistency, while also recognising the need to adapt to different realities. 

“While this generic methodology and approach offers space for alignment in claims for deforestation and conversion free, and verified deforestation and conversion free, we recognise the need to adapt and tailor to different commodities,” said Jane Lino, Deputy Director - Projects, Proforest Brazil. 

“One thing we feel is very important is to note that accurate DCF reporting can be particularly challenging for smallholders, relative to large producers, due to limited traceability, indirect sourcing and the vast number of smallholders. Therefore companies (and regulators) need to be mindful about not unintentionally excluding or disadvantaging smallholders," continued said Smita Jairam, Principal Project Manager,  Proforest Southeast Asia.

Click to read Proforest’s methodology and approach for Verified Deforestation and Conversion Free