B corporation

About B corporation

B Corporation certification, also known as B Corp certification, is a designation awarded to businesses that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and legal accountability. B Corps are for-profit companies that are committed to using business as a force for good, balancing purpose and profit.

The certification process involves a comprehensive assessment of a company's impact across various areas, including governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. This assessment is conducted by the nonprofit organization B Lab, which verifies the company's performance against a set of rigorous standards.

To become a B Corp, a company must meet certain requirements, including:

Performance Evaluation: The company's impact is evaluated using the B Impact Assessment, a comprehensive assessment tool that measures the company's impact on stakeholders, governance practices, and environmental sustainability. The assessment covers a wide range of criteria, such as employee benefits, supply chain management, environmental practices, and community engagement.

Legal Requirements: B Corps must amend their legal governing documents to incorporate a commitment to considering the impact of their decisions on all stakeholders, not just shareholders. This legal requirement ensures that the company's social and environmental mission is legally protected and prioritized.

Transparency and Accountability: B Corps commit to being transparent about their social and environmental performance by making their B Impact Report publicly available. This report outlines the company's impact and shows how it compares to other certified B Corps.

Once a company meets the requirements and passes the assessment, it is eligible to become a certified B Corp. This certification demonstrates the company's commitment to using business as a force for good and helps distinguish it as a purpose-driven and socially responsible organization.

B Corps are part of a global community of businesses dedicated to advancing sustainable business practices. They work together to share best practices, collaborate on initiatives, and drive positive change in their industries and communities.

In summary, B Corporation certification is a designation awarded to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and legal accountability. B Corps are committed to using business as a force for good and undergo a rigorous assessment to demonstrate their impact and commitment to sustainability. The certification helps consumers identify businesses that prioritize purpose alongside profit and encourages a more sustainable and responsible approach to business.