In order to support operators who wish to demonstrate that no genetically modified organisms (GMOs) were used in the cultivation of their biomass, RSB has developed guidance to allow these additional claims to be made.

The RSB guidance for Non-GMO Cultivation is a voluntary addition to other RSB Certification types used in biomass cultivation.

The RSB approach for Non-GMO Cultivation may not be used as a standalone certification.

This optional add-on is for use by any operator wishing to demonstrate that their operation does not use GMOs in the cultivation of biomass.

RSB’s voluntary approach for non-GMO cultivation requires that operators demonstrate that:

• no incoming seed stock and, or vegetative propagation material (e.g. cuttings using in clonal forestry) containing GMOs are used within the scope of certification.
• they are implementing practices to prevent any carry-over of GMO used in other operations. This can include a periodic assessment of whether GMO cultivation or GMO experimental releases are taking place in the immediate vicinity of the fields, whether this might be affecting their own crops and, if applicable, whether the necessary cultivation distances are met.
• training systems are in place for relevant staff.
• they are using an ‘identity preserved’ or ‘product segregated’ chain of custody system, as described in the RSB Procedure for Traceability (Global, non-EU) or RSB EU RED Standard for Traceability (EU).
• they do not refer to the product being non-GMO or free of GMO or use a claim that could be interpreted by the customer as a product being non-GMO.