Sustainability certifications can really be a way to take your business to the next level! Businesses across all industries are increasingly seeking sustainability certifications as a way to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental protection - and the print industry is no different!
These certifications serve as a badge of honor for businesses that are committed to sustainability and environmental protection. They also provide a framework for companies to follow as they continue on their sustainability journey. These can be split into two categories: industry-specific certifications and general certifications.
Industry Specific Certifications
These certifications are designed for specific sectors or industries such as printing or paper production. They are most typically awarded by industry associations that have particular expertise. They often have strict criteria that may relate to environmental impacts, social responsibility, and governance.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): This is a global certification system that promotes responsible forest management. FSC certification ensures that products made from wood and paper come from well-managed forests that are socially and environmentally responsible.
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC): This is an international non-profit organisation that promotes sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification. PEFC certified products come from forests that are managed in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable manner.
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI): This is a certification system that promotes sustainable forest management and responsible sourcing of wood and paper products. SFI certified products come from forests that are managed in a way that conserves biodiversity, ensures healthy soils and water, and maintains air quality.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): This certification is awarded to clothing products made from at least 70% organic fibers. To receive the GOTS certification, a company must demonstrate that it meets strict environmental and social criteria, including using organic and non-toxic inputs, reducing water and energy consumption, and providing fair working conditions for employees.
Oeko-Tex: This certification is awarded to clothing products that are free from harmful substances and safe for human health. To receive the Oeko-Tex certification, a company must demonstrate that its products meet strict standards for the levels of chemicals and other substances that are considered harmful to human health.
Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC): This certification is awarded to clothing companies that have committed to reducing the use of hazardous chemicals in their production processes. To receive the ZDHC certification, a company must demonstrate that it is implementing a comprehensive chemical management system and working towards reducing the use of hazardous chemicals in its supply chain.
Recycled Claim Standard (RCS): This certification is awarded to clothing products that are made using recycled materials. To receive the RCS certification, a company must demonstrate that its products meet strict standards for the amount of recycled content used in their production.
General Certifications
These are applicable to a wider range of businesses and industries. They provide more general approaches to sustainability. Examples include:
ISO 14001: This is an internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems. It helps organisations identify and control their environmental impacts, and improve their environmental performance.
B Corporation: This is a certification for businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B Corporations are committed to using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.
Choosing the right certification for your business
With so many different certification systems available, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your business. We recommend starting with a leading one for your main product offering. For example if you print paper products regularly we recommend achieving FSC or PEFC certification. Different certifications have different reputations. They can be a powerful marketing tool, especially if they are well-respected and recognised by customers and industry leaders.
Some sustainability certifications cover a specific aspect of your operations, such as your supply chain or your energy use. Others cover your entire organisation, including all of your products, services, and operations. Consider the scope of the certification and how well it aligns with your business goals and operations.
Sustainability certifications can be expensive, particularly if you need to make significant changes to your operations in order to meet the certification requirements. Consider the cost of obtaining and maintaining the certification, as well as any potential cost savings or revenue benefits that it might provide. The cost may also be worth it for the long-term environmental and social impacts this will have on your business.
Future articles will offer specific guidance on achieving these certifications. Please feel free to contact HelloPrint for more information and help on obtaining a certification if needed.
