It’s been a year since B Lab released bold new standards for achieving B Corp certification.
Back then we shared guidance on the most significant changes that certifying and recertifying organisations needed to be aware of. Now that the new standards have had a chance to settle in, we’d like to share some insights we’ve had in the meantime.
How to talk about the new standards
BIA? V1.6? V2.1? As the new B Lab Standards were introduced there was some variety in how the old and new standards were referenced. B Lab has clarified their new naming and versioning approach here. The framework is simply known as the B Lab Standards (sometimes clarified as V2) and the certification platform is the B Impact Self-Assessment.
Exploring the Impact Topics
While there are some common requirements between the old impact areas – Governance, Workers, Community, Environment, and Customers – and the seven new Impact Topics, much has changed. All organisations looking to apply B Lab Standards are encouraged to start with a gap analysis to map current practices against Year 0 requirements applicable by size and sector. Current B Corps can do this via the B Impact Self-Assessment by navigating to Requirements. Alternatively, the publicly available B Impact Knowledge Hub includes, for each Impact Topic, a summary table of requirements as well as helpful guidance and further reading.
New brand resources
B Lab has published a new brand messaging library to guide organisations in communicating about their B Corp status as well as updated visual identity guidance. Consult the B Lab Brand Book for detailed information tailored to new and existing B Corps.
ECGT alignment
New European “Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition” (ECGT) rules will apply in the EU as of 27 September, 2026. Because the new rules are concerned with labelling of consumer products, there are implications for organisations using the B Corp logo and B Corp certification status in their marketing and other communications. This includes B Corps in the UK or other territories with a value chain that extends to the EU. While B Corps are highly likely to be aligned with the intent of the ECGT rules, B Lab recommends certification on the new B Lab Standards before September 2026 in order to remain in compliance. B Lab has published specific ECGT guidance and recommends that organisations take independent legal advice to clarify their position with respect to the law.
Key dates
The new B Lab Standards are in official use for all certifications and recertifications as of 11 March 2026. Some upcoming deadlines to be aware of:
- 15 July 2026 – last day for ECGT impacted B Corps to submit for recertification under the new B Lab Standards in order to remain in compliance with the new rules
- 31 August 2026 – deadline to update digital and new printed and packaging materials in line with current Brand Usage Guidelines
Support for B Corp certification and recertification
Our B Corp expertise means our inbox has been busy with inquiries about the new B Lab Standards and B Corp certification and recertification. But we always have time for more. If you need support, get in touch!
