At the beginning of 2022 Grain Sustainability received some truly exciting news. We officially became a Certified B Corp.
So, what does it mean?
Becoming a B Corporation means we’ve joined more than 3,5000 organisations in 74 countries committed to doing business in a new way, one that puts people and the planet at the heart of all they do.
It means that we meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose.
As a B Corp we take up a leadership role in an emerging sustainability-based economy, one that we see as quickly replacing the old planet-destroying one.
The B Corp declaration of interdependence states:
- That we must be the change we seek in the world.
- That all business ought to be conducted as if people and place mattered.
- That, through their products, practices, and profits, businesses should aspire to do no harm and benefit all.
- To do so requires that we act with the understanding that we are each dependent upon another and thus responsible for each other and future generations.
How do you become a B Corp?
The B Corp assessment covers five areas: governance, community, workers, environment, and customers. If you’ve worked with other sustainability frameworks like GRI you’ll be on familiar ground as they are well aligned.
Detailed disclosures are required in all the areas applicable to your organisation, as is verifiable evidence. We didn’t say it was always easy. But, on the other hand, it’s an enlightening and inspiring process to put your business through and understand how changes you make can have tremendous impacts on the health, stability and balance of the world at large.
Importantly, B Corp certification is done within a legally recognised framework with continual improvement built in. By becoming a B Corp you commit to improving your sustainability performance year on year and sharing your goals and achievements publicly.
That public commitment comes with great benefits. Becoming a B Corp is a powerful way to engage and retain current employees and to attract people who seek purpose at work. B Corp certification can also build and strengthen customer relationships and boost sales. B Corp is also a community with strong support through networking, resources and regular events.
Because we’ve been through the assessment and certification process ourselves, we know it inside and out. We think it’s the best footing for running a business now and in the future. And we’re here to help you become a B Corp too.
To find out more, watch our talk on becoming a B Corp.
If you’d like help becoming a Certified B Corp, get in touch on +44 20 8187 7040, email hello@grain-sustainability.com, or book in a chat.
