If you’re truly committed to sustainability, vague statements and aspirational goals are no longer enough. Your investors, customers, and regulators are now demanding concrete evidence of environmental performance – proof, not promises – that’s where Sustainability Standards can help.
To build real credibility and demonstrate a genuine commitment to reducing your environmental impact, you must go beyond well-meaning intentions. That means aligning your operations with recognised standards and frameworks that help you set specific targets, measure progress, and clearly show that sustainability is a serious business priority.
In this blog we outline a number of the sustainability standards which may be of interest to you.
Science Based Targets Initiative
One of the most effective frameworks you can adopt is the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). As the leading global standard for corporate climate goals, SBTi enables you to set emissions reduction targets aligned with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. By committing to SBTi, you’re not just ticking a box – you’re taking real, scientifically grounded steps towards decarbonisation, with a clear roadmap and measurable milestones.
We recently supported Network Plus in validating their emissions data in alignment with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) criteria.
Greenhouse Gas Protocol
Supporting this is the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, the global gold standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. It provides the methodology you need to calculate emissions from your operations, energy use, and supply chains. Implementing the GHG Protocol allows you to report accurately and transparently – critical for building trust with stakeholders and avoiding the risks of underreporting or greenwashing. Without it, your sustainability reporting may lack the integrity and precision today’s markets expect.
We have recently supported Sixteen3 to develop a GHG inventory in line with the GHG Protocol.
ISO 14001
If you’re ready to go even further, internationally recognised management system standards like ISO 14001 provide a robust framework for environmental management. This helps you embed environmental performance into every part of your business and achieving this standard shows that your sustainability goals are not only real but verifiable.
We recently supported NOV and Chadwicks of Bury with their ISO14001 application.
B-Corp
You might also consider B Corp Certification, which evaluates your overall impact – not just environmental performance, but also governance, treatment of workers, and community engagement. If you’re looking to make sustainability a core part of your identity, B Corp status helps you stand out to customers, partners, and employees who value purpose-driven business.
Groundwork Sustainable Business Membership
At Groundwork, we recognise that most businesses are likely to need some support to reach their sustainability goals, that’s why we developed our Sustainable Business Membership scheme, which includes a thorough assessment of your sustainability activities, resulting in an informative action plan which details suggested changes for carbon reduction, biodiversity, social development and more.
In addition to the assessment process, members have access to a series of ongoing learning events and access to specialist consultants, supporting your business towards whatever sustainability standard you may wish to achieve.
These frameworks and certifications aren’t just about compliance. They are strategic tools that can help you manage risk, build trust, attract investment, and differentiate your brand in an increasingly sustainability-focused world. The standards you commit to today will shape how your business is judged tomorrow. Embracing them positions you for long-term resilience and success in a rapidly changing landscape.