Updated Preferred by Nature certification documents for enhanced sustainability guidelines
We are pleased to release the newly revised core normative documents within the Preferred by Nature Certification reflecting valuable stakeholder inputs gathered during our most recent public consultation.
These documents also provide added clarity to our seal use rules and offer detailed instructions on Chain of Custody requirements. Following is the summary of changes and updates made to each document on the latest version.
Sustainability Framework, version 1.4 (SP-01)
Our cornerstone Sustainability Framework document has been updated based on stakeholder input, with minor changes. This version reaffirms the Framework’s alignment with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
The Sustainability Framework has been designed as a comprehensive single framework for defining and benchmarking sustainability across different commodities. Inspired by existing sustainability schemes, it consists of four principles and 31 criteria that address various aspects of sustainability. The Sustainability Framework serves multiple purposes, including verification of forest and farm management and due diligence for sustainable sourcing throughout supply chains.
System Requirements, version 1.4 (SP-02)
This is a comprehensive standard that applies to all organisations seeking Preferred by Nature verification across land use and supply chain sectors. It stipulates requirements for the quality system and competences to ensure that all other normative documents are fulfilled.
In response to industry needs, our System Requirements document (SP-02) now includes provisions for group and multi-site requirements. This enhancement ensures that our standards remain adaptable and inclusive for organisations of varying sizes and structures.
Seal Use Policy, version 1.0 (SP-04)
This policy sets out the conditions for using the Preferred by Nature Seal under the Sustainability Framework Programme. Verified organisations wishing to use the Seal must adhere to these conditions. The Seal Use Policy ensures that the Seal is used consistently and responsibly by verified organisations.
This new document reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency and rigorous standards for product labelling and consumer oriented sustainability messaging. This final version sets clear guidelines for the use of our Hummingbird Seal, emphasising the importance of compliance with sustainability criteria and also requiring a climate and biodiversity related contribution.
Chain of Custody Standard, version 1.4 (SP-05)
The standard outlines requirements covering all aspects related to the purchase, trade, processing, and sales of verified products within the supply chain. It applies specifically to organisations verified by Preferred by Nature, ensuring that they can confidently make claims about the verified status of the products they sell.
The Chain of Custody Standard (SP-05) has seen significant revisions, aligning it with current sustainability best practices. This draft version ensures that the processes and procedures for tracking and verifying sustainable materials meet the highest standards.
These updates underscore our dedication to advancing sustainability practices across industries. We are also working on updating the Due Diligence Standard and other related documents, including the Terms and Definitions, which will be released soon. Browse all available resources under our Sustainability Framework Programme here.
