It is a revised, upgraded and improved version of Good Practice Guidance issued in 2017. The new version is more advanced in the analytical methods for calculating SDG Indicator 15.3.1, and reflects current best practice, data and knowledge. The purpose of the Guidance is to inform the work of Parties, particularly on monitoring and understanding the status of land cover, land productivity and soil organic carbon stocks. These are the three major variables used to measure the Indicator. They help Parties report more effectively and accurately.