The Biodiversity Consultancy named a Delivery Partner of the Accountability Framework initiative (AFi)

9 July 2025

The Biodiversity Consultancy is now an official Delivery Partner of the Accountability Framework initiative (AFi). As part of this programme, we will support companies in applying the Accountability Framework to build and maintain responsible, deforestation- and conversion-free supply chains (DCF).

Our role as a Delivery Partner reflects our commitment to providing expert guidance that helps businesses turn sustainability goals into measurable, science-based action. 

What is the Accountability Framework initiative (AFi)? 

The Accountability Framework initiative (AFi) is a collaborative programme launched in 2019. It is led by a global coalition of over 23 environmental and social NGOs to achieve supply chains free of deforestation and ecosystem conversion, and wholly respectful of human rights. 

The Accountability Framework itself provides a roadmap to help companies eliminate deforestation, ecosystem conversion, and human rights abuses from their agricultural and forestry supply chains. Grounded in international norms and shaped by consensus among civil society, business, and finance stakeholders, the Framework guides companies in setting credible goals, taking effective action, and transparently reporting on their progress. It also supports alignment with other sustainability standards and initiatives, enabling businesses to address broader climate and nature commitments. 

Through its Delivery Partner Programme, AFi equips consultancies and service providers with the ability to integrate the Framework into client-facing work, helping companies to move from commitments to measurable impact.  

How The Biodiversity Consultancy uses the Framework to enhance supply chain advisory services for corporates and financial institutions 

Supporting Deforestation- and Conversion-Free Supply Chains 

The Biodiversity Consultancy provides a range of services to support corporates and financial institutions in transitioning to DCF supply chains.

Our key services include:

  • Designing DCF policies and public commitments

  • Conducting data reviews and methodology advisory to assess deforestation and conversion risks, and

  • Operationalising these commitments through procurement policies, supplier engagement strategies, and landscape projects

Framework Alignment and Risk Assessment 

We help clients assess readiness and align with major frameworks, including the Accountability Framework initiative (AFi), Science Based Targets initiative Forest, Land and Agriculture (SBTi FLAG), and Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) reporting.

Our risk assessments provide commodity-specific benchmarks and sourcing area profiles to identify high-risk locations aligned with these frameworks. 

Capacity Building and Training 

To support the corporate teams, we deliver tailored training programs that equip them with the knowledge and tools to navigate frameworks such as AFi, SBTN, and EUDR, enabling effective implementation of DCF supply chains. 

Our Role as an AFi Delivery Partner 

As an official AFi Delivery Partner, The Biodiversity Consultancy aligns its services with AFi principles, develops new tools, stays current with standards, and actively supports AFi’s mission.

We integrate the Framework into our advisory work by guiding clients on risk assessments, DCF commitments, monitoring, compliance, and stakeholder engagement to deliver credible, effective supply chain strategies. 

Please reach out to Paula Hanna Valdujo for any queries related to this partnership. 

Category: Company news

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