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Let's face it, sustainability has become a buzzword in the business world, but with good reason. So as more and more people become aware of the impact that companies have on the environment and society, it's increasingly important for businesses to be able to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, in a verified way.
That's why certification exist. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 13 most popular sustainability certifications available to UK businesses, and help you choose the right one for your company. There are still others out there, but these 13 are typically the most common.
Sustainability certifications are third-party certifications that are awarded to companies that meet specific standards related to environmental, social, and/or ethical practices. These certifications are designed to help consumers and stakeholders identify companies that are committed to sustainability, and they often come with a range of benefits, such as marketing opportunities, access to funding, and improved reputation.
Summary: B Corp certification is awarded to companies that meet strict standards related to social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's impact on workers, customers, communities, and the environment. B Corps are committed to using business as a force for good.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and revenue, typically ranges from £500 to £50,000.
Summary: The Ethical Company Organisation awards Ethical Accreditation to companies that meet certain ethical criteria, such as animal welfare, environmental impact, and human rights. The accreditation process involves an assessment of the company's policies and practices, as well as its supply chain.
Cost: £1,450 for small businesses (less than 10 employees),£2,400 for medium-sized businesses (10-249 employees),£4,800 for large businesses (250+ employees).
Summary: Planet Mark is a sustainability certification that recognises companies that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's carbon emissions, as well as its commitment to sustainability initiatives such as renewable energy and waste reduction.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and carbon footprint, typically ranges from £1,500 to £8,000.
Summary: FutureFit Business is a sustainability certification that focuses on helping companies become more sustainable, resilient, and future-proof. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's sustainability practices, as well as its potential for future impact.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and revenue, typically ranges from £2,000 to £30,000.
Summary: ISO 14001 is an environmental management certification that recognises companies that have implemented effective environmental management systems. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's environmental impact, as well as its policies and procedures for managing that impact.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £500 to £5,000.
Summary: ISO 9001 provides a framework for companies to implement and maintain a quality management system that meets customer and regulatory requirements. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's quality management system, including its processes for customer satisfaction, continual improvement, and management review.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £500 to £5,000.
Summary: The Carbon Trust Standard is a certification that recognises companies that have taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's carbon emissions, as well as its efforts to reduce those emissions through initiatives such as energy efficiency and renewable energy.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and carbon footprint, typically ranges from £2,500 to £10,000.
Summary: The Wildlife Trusts Biodiversity Benchmark is a certification that recognises companies that are committed to promoting biodiversity. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's impact on biodiversity, as well as its efforts to promote biodiversity through initiatives such as habitat restoration and sustainable land management.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and scope of assessment, typically ranges from £1,000 to £5,000.
Summary: Fairtrade certification is awarded to companies that demonstrate a commitment to fair trade practices, such as paying fair wages and ensuring safe working conditions for workers. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's supply chain, as well as its commitment to fair trade practices.
Cost: Cost varies based on company size and product type, typically ranges from £2,000 to £10,000.
Summary: The Forest Stewardship Council certification is awarded to companies that source their wood and paper products from responsibly managed forests. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's supply chain, as well as its commitment to sustainable forest management.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £500 to £10,000.
Summary: The Marine Stewardship Council certification is awarded to companies that source their seafood from sustainable fisheries. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's supply chain, as well as its commitment to sustainable fishing practices.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £2,500 to £10,000.
Summary: The Rainforest Alliance certification is awarded to companies that demonstrate a commitment to environmental and social sustainability. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's impact on the environment and society, as well as its efforts to promote sustainability through initiatives such as sustainable agriculture and forestry.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £1,000 to £10,000.
Summary: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is awarded to buildings that meet strict standards related to energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor air quality. The certification process involves an assessment of the building's design, construction, and operation.
Cost: Cost varies based on building size and type, typically ranges from £1,500 to £20,000.
Summary: The Zero Waste Certification is awarded to companies that have implemented effective waste reduction and diversion programs. The certification process involves an assessment of the company's waste reduction and diversion programs, as well as its overall waste management practices.
Cost: Cost varies based on certification body and company size, typically ranges from £2,000 to £10,000.
Choosing the right sustainability certification for your company can be a daunting task, but it's important to do your research and select a certification that aligns with your values and goals. Here are a few things to consider:
1). What are your sustainability goals? Do you want to reduce your carbon footprint, promote biodiversity, or ensure fair labour practices?
2). What are the certification requirements? Make sure you understand the criteria for each certification and whether your company is eligible.
3). What are the benefits of certification? Consider the marketing opportunities, access to funding, and other benefits that come with each certification.
4). How much does it cost? Certifications can vary widely in cost, so make sure you factor this into your decision-making process.Now with all that in mind, let's get started!
At Futureproof, we understand that sustainability can be a complex and overwhelming topic for many businesses. That's why our platform breaks down sustainability into manageable chunks for businesses (what we call Roadmaps). Meaning you can improve what you do across ESG whilst accrediting in the certifications above. Speak to our team today to learn more about how we can help futureproof your business for a more sustainable future.
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