The term ‘B Corp’ is becoming increasingly popular as businesses strive to become more socially and environmentally responsible. But what does it mean to be a B Corp? And why should enterprises strive for B Corp certification?
A B Corp is a business that meets environmental and social performance standards, accountability, and transparency. This blog post will explore the ins and outs of being a B Corp, including how you can achieve certification, the impact on the environment, some successful examples, the future of B Corps, and more.
What Is a B Corp Certification?
B Corps are certified companies committed to using their business to do good in the world. To be certified as a B Corp, companies must meet specific criteria set by the non-profit organization ‘B Lab.’ Companies must meet social and environmental performance standards, transparency, and accountability to be eligible for certification.
This means that they must demonstrate measurable progress toward achieving their sustainability goals. Additionally, these companies must be legally recognized as benefit corporations or public benefit corporations.
The Advantages Of Becoming Certified As A B Corporation
Becoming certified as a B Corporation has many advantages for businesses looking to make positive environmental change while gaining recognition for their commitment to sustainability efforts. From increased customer trust to expanded access to capital markets – there are countless reasons why businesses should consider taking on this certification process. By incentivizing companies to act responsibly now – we can ensure more sustainable growth in the future.
How Does a Company Become Certified As A B Corporation?
Becoming certified as a B Corporation consists of an online assessment of your company’s current practices and an in-person review with an independent panel of experts. The online assessment covers five areas:
- governance (how decisions are made)
- workers (employee benefits)
- community (investment in local initiatives)
- environment (reducing energy use & waste)
- customers (ethical sales practices)
After completing the online assessment, you will receive an overall score indicating how your company measures against other businesses striving toward certification. The second part of the process is an in-person review with an independent panel of experts who assess your company’s commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship. If your company passes this review process, you will receive official certification from B Lab.
What Kind Of Standards Must A Company Meet To Be Certified As A B Corporation?
Companies must demonstrate that they meet exacting social and environmental performance standards, accountability, and transparency. They must earn an overall passing score of 80 (out of 200) to prove that their operations support their public commitment to doing good. And once certified, companies must prove annually that they’ve kept up with their responsibilities to maintain their B Corp status ― proof that they are continuing to strive for the highest standards of ethical business practices.
How B Corp Certifications Incentivize Companies To Be Environmentally-Responsible
With more companies seeking this certification every day – it’s clear that becoming a B Corporation is one step closer to creating a world where all businesses operate with purposeful intent. So if you’re looking for ways to differentiate yourself from competitors while also making meaningful contributions towards global sustainability, look no further than becoming officially certified as a B Corporation today. Good luck, and thank you for reading.
