The following certificates and guides have been chosen for their ability to catalyze and demonstrate real commitment to sustainability.
The Drawdown-Aligned Business Framework highlights key leverage points and specific climate actions that all businesses must tap to help the world achieve drawdown quickly, safely and equitably. To be drawdown-aligned, companies must leverage their social, political, financial, and employee power to scale the climate solutions we have in-hand today.
Human Resources and Operations
Climate Voice mobilizes employees and employers who care about sustainability to pressure leadership to actively advocate for strong climate policies. You can be part of the collective voice of the workforce pushing major corporations for significant action on climate change.
Check out their Climate Action at Work guide.
Environmental certifications are becoming increasingly important for businesses, as they demonstrate commitment to sustainability and responsible practices.
For a deeper dive, see the National Registry of Environmental Professionals Guide to Environmental Certifications.
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems. It provides a framework for companies to:
Identify and manage their environmental impact
Continuously improve environmental performance
Set and achieve environmental objectives
This certification is applicable to organizations of all sizes and types, making it suitable for tech and knowledge-worker companies.
This certification recognizes a building that operates more efficiently than 75% of similar structures nationwide, and is based on the EPA's 1-100 score. Meeting the 75% target reflects high-efficiency energy systems.
This certification is particularly relevant for companies aiming to demonstrate their commitment to reducing carbon emissions:
Recognizes organizations that measure, manage, and reduce their carbon footprint
Requires companies to show year-on-year reductions in carbon emissions
Can be valuable for tech companies looking to address their climate impact
Various organizations offer green business certifications that can be suitable for tech and knowledge-worker companies:
Evaluate overall sustainability practices
May include assessments of energy use, waste reduction, and sustainable procurement
Help build trust with consumers and attract environmentally conscious employees
While not directly for companies, EPEAT is relevant for tech companies that produce or purchase electronic products:
Provides a comprehensive environmental rating for electronics
Covers criteria such as energy efficiency, recyclability, and reduction of hazardous materials
Can be used by companies to demonstrate commitment to sustainable IT practices
B Corp certification is awarded to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. For tech companies, this certification:
Evaluates overall impact on workers, customers, community, and the environment
Requires achieving a minimum score on the B Impact Assessment
Demonstrates a commitment to using business as a force for good
While primarily associated with buildings, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification can be relevant for tech companies with office spaces:
Focuses on green building practices
Covers aspects like energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials
Offers different levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum