We’re passionate about designing, developing, and producing, sustainable creative communications, which includes helping our clients reduce their environmental impact. As part of this, we’re striving to become B-Corp certified. This is a huge topic of conversation across all industries, but do you know what it is and why it’s becoming such an important accreditation?

What is B-Corp?

The ‘B’ in B-Corp stands for ‘Benefits’ and refers to benefiting colleagues, the community and the environment. Put simply, it represents business used as a force for good. The certification itself confirms that you’re meeting the highest standards in performance, accountability and transparency across a number of factors ranging from employee benefits and ‘charitable giving’ through to good supply chain practices.

The certificate is given by B Lab, which is a nonprofit organisation working to transform the global economy for the good of all. The B Corp certification first began in 2012 and since then it has gone from strength to strength with over 5,000 companies across 60 industries around the world now proudly being B-Corporations. These include such prestigious brands as Ben & Jerry’s, Gousto and Patagonia.

How do you become B certified?

As with any recognised certification, becoming a B-Corp brand isn’t easy. You must go on a journey that includes a rigorous application which has over 300 questions covering every aspect of your business.

Here are the main points that you must adhere to:

• You must have an explicit social or environmental mission, and a legally binding responsibility to be accountable for the interests of workers, the community and environment.
• Adopt B Lab’s commitment to sustainability and treating colleagues well, with this included in your articles of incorporation.
• Pay B Corp an annual fee based on your revenue.
• Complete a biannual B Impact Report covering social and environmental impact, which you must make public.
• Meet B Lab’s exacting social and environment performances levels.

What are the benefits?

Becoming B-Corp certified shows that your company has achieved the high standards when it comes to positive social and environmental impact. In addition, you’ll build trust with customers, the community and suppliers alike. And of course, as you’re looking after your team, you’re helping to attract and retain them. Last and by no means least, it helps you partner with likeminded businesses.

How long does it take to achieve?

Well, it’s an ongoing process as you are continually re-assessed with the aim to always better your last score. But to begin with, you need a minimum B Impact Assessment score of 80 points to be certified. According to the B Lab website, it’s hard to achieve this on the first attempt. But we’ll let you know when we try soon! Until, then if you’d like to know more about becoming B Corp, visit the B Lap UK website by clicking here.