How to obtain Sustainability Certifications: Types and how your company can achieve them

On the journey toward corporate sustainability, obtaining a sustainability certification is one of the most relevant regulations and standards. It is a tool that identifies an organization as committed to environmental and social responsibility principles.

To achieve this certification, meeting a series of requirements is essential. Below, we outline the steps necessary to reach this goal.

How to obtain Sustainability Certification

Each sector and certification body may have specific requirements. Here are the most common steps to qualify for sustainability certification:

Phase 1: Understanding and planning

This phase focuses on understanding certification requirements and planning how the organization will meet them.

1. Identify standards and regulations

Some of the most recognized international sustainability standards include:

• ISO 14001: An international standard for environmental management that helps organizations identify, manage, and control their environmental impacts.
• ISO 14064: A standard specifying principles and requirements for the quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals.
• EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme): A voluntary EU system that recognizes organizations with environmental management systems and verified environmental statements.
• GRI (Global Reporting Initiative): A standard for sustainability reporting providing a comprehensive framework for reporting on an organization’s economic, environmental, and social performance.

2. Double Materiality assessment

A double materiality assessment is fundamental for identifying the most significant environmental and social impacts of the organization, considering both:

• Internal perspective: How sustainability issues affect the organization.
• External perspective: How the organization impacts sustainability.

Key areas include:

• Environmental impacts: GHG emissions, water and energy consumption, waste generation, pollution, etc.
• Social impacts: Human rights, working conditions, health and safety, and local community impact.

3. GAP analysis

After identifying certification requirements and material topics, perform a GAP analysis to determine the difference between current practices and standard requirements.

4. Action plan

Develop a detailed action plan to address identified gaps, including:

• Specific and measurable objectives: Set clear goals for each area of improvement.
• Timelines: Define realistic deadlines for implementing actions.
• Necessary resources: Allocate human, financial, and technical resources.
• Responsibilities: Assign responsibilities for each task and activity.

Phase 2: Implementation and management

This phase involves executing the actions outlined in the plan and managing data and information systems.

1. Data management and information systems

Implement robust systems for collecting, storing, and managing environmental data. These systems should enable:

• Accurate and reliable data collection: Ensure data quality from the source.
• Secure and accessible storage: Protect data integrity and availability.
• Data analysis and reporting: Simplify report generation and progress tracking.

2. Accuracy and consistency

Establish processes to ensure data accuracy, integrity, and consistency, including:

• Data validation: Verify data accuracy through quality checks.
• Documentation: Record data collection and management processes.
• Internal audits: Conduct periodic audits to assess system effectiveness.

3. Integration and reporting

Incorporate certification requirements into sustainability strategies and daily operations by:

• Embedding sustainability in company culture: Foster environmental awareness at all levels.
• Aligning practices with certification requirements: Ensure daily operations comply with established standards.
• Preparing sustainability reports: Document environmental performance transparently and comprehensively.

Phase 3: Verification and external assurance

This phase involves third-party verification to ensure compliance with certification requirements.

1. Report preparation

Prepare reports for third-party verification, ensuring they are:

• Complete and accurate: Include all relevant and verifiable information.
• Compliant with certification requirements: Follow established guidelines and standards.
• Transparent and understandable: Present information clearly and accessibly.

2. Select a verifier

Choose a recognized and accredited verification body to ensure certification credibility. Consider:

• Experience and reputation: Select a verifier with a proven track record in sustainability certifications.
• Accreditation: Ensure the verifier is accredited by a recognized body.
• Independence: Verify that the entity is independent of the organization and free from conflicts of interest.

Phase 4: Training, awareness, and continuous improvement

This phase focuses on employee training, sustainability awareness, and ongoing environmental management system improvements.

1. Training and awareness

Educate all organizational levels about environmental standards and sustainability’s importance through:

• Certification-specific training: Provide detailed information on certification requirements.
• Promoting a sustainability culture: Encourage environmental awareness and individual responsibility.
• Internal communication: Keep employees informed about sustainability progress and achievements.

2. Continuous monitoring and improvement

Implement a system to monitor sustainability indicators and adjust practices as needed, including:

• KPI monitoring: Regularly track progress toward sustainability goals.
• Data analysis: Identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Environmental management system reviews: Adapt systems to changing needs and regulations.

Phase 5: Communication and stakeholder engagement

This phase emphasizes transparent communication and active stakeholder participation.

1. Stakeholder communication and engagement

Maintain open and transparent dialogue with stakeholders, including employees, customers, investors, and communities, by:

• Communicating sustainability efforts and progress: Share initiatives and results.
• Involving stakeholders in decision-making: Consider their perspectives and needs.
• Addressing concerns and suggestions: Respond to stakeholder questions and concerns.

Benefits of Sustainability Certification

Obtaining sustainability certification offers significant advantages, including:

• Enhanced reputation: Demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainability, improving its image among customers, investors, and society.
• Cost reduction: Sustainable practices can result in significant savings in energy, water, and materials.
• Legal compliance: Ensures compliance with environmental regulations, avoiding penalties.
• Market access: Increasingly, international markets require sustainability certifications.
• Customer attraction: Conscious consumers prefer products and services from sustainable companies.
• Talent attraction: Sustainability is a key factor in attracting and retaining talent.
• Financing access: Financial institutions often offer favorable conditions to companies with strong environmental performance.

Let Manglai help you achieve Sustainability Certification

At Manglai, we provide comprehensive support throughout the certification process—from carbon footprint measurement to report preparation and automated MITECO certification management. Our team of experts will help you achieve your sustainability goals and gain the recognition your company deserves.