We are pleased to announce the publication of Deliverable D4.3, which reports on the testing of the BIOBASEDCERT Monitoring Tool (BMT) across nine diverse sustainability certification schemes and labels (CSLs), ranging from Type I ecolabels (EU Ecolabel, Nordic Swan) to broad, multi-sectoral certification systems (FSC, ISCC, RSB, Bonsucro, Better Cotton, Better Biomass, SBP).
The results demonstrate that the BMT is a robust diagnostic tool, capable of revealing both established strengths and areas for improvement in CSLs:
Key findings:
· Strong performance was observed in standard setting and governance & management across most tested schemes.
· Variation and recurring gaps appeared in assurance and traceability & claims, particularly in unannounced audits, oversight mechanisms, and due diligence requirements.
· The testing revealed limits in how system-level indicators apply to Type I ecolabels.
· A supplementary case study in the textile sector confirmed the pre-assessment tool’s flexibility for sector-specific applications.
· Policymakers can use the BMT as a transparent reference tool to recognise credible schemes and inform EU-level regulation and procurement.
Overall, the BMT has proven its value as an evidence-based benchmarking system. It highlights where schemes already meet high standards and where improvements are needed, supporting policymakers, scheme owners, and industry actors in strengthening the credibility and effectiveness of certification.
