The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute has released a new version of its Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard.
- The new Version 4.1 standard will be effective 1 July 2024; from this date, the Institute will start accepting applications.
- The Institute will also release a suite of guidance documents to assist users in navigating the updated standard, and new communication tools to support communication of certification achievements, in alignment with the new European Union legal requirements on green claims.
THE ENHANCEMENTS: The Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard Version 4.1 includes many improvements on Version 4.0 across all the standard’s categories:
- In the Material Health category, the Bronze-level chemical restrictions more closely align with leading chemical regulations, serving as the first step prior to the in-depth, full toxicity assessment of chemicals in the product.
- In the Product Circularity category, the requirements better incentivise reuse, remanufacturing, and similar cycling pathways.
- In the Clean Air & Climate Protection category, more options were introduced for achieving important targets to use renewable electricity and address greenhouse gas emissions in manufacturing and ensure alignment with industry best practice.
- In the Water & Soil Stewardship category, requirements for tier 1 suppliers and third-party water treatment facilities were shifted to higher achievement levels, to offer a more feasible approach.
- In the Social Fairness category, a modification of Bronze level requirements was introduced to focus on manufacturing facilities while still ensuring the category is aligned with leading international guidelines (e.g., UN Guiding Principles and OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business).
- In the Environmental Policy & Management category, the requirements have been fully aligned with the due diligence requirements that already existed for human rights in the Social Fairness category.
A more detailed list of these changes is accessible in the Version 4.0 to Version 4.1 Comparison document.
PATHWAYS TO VERSION 4.1 CERTIFICATION: The Institute continues its mission to expand the adoption of the Cradle to Cradle Certified methodology.
- Companies are encouraged to adopt the Version 4.1 standard in full.
- As an 'on-ramp' to the full standard, companies can select a rigorous C2C Certified Material Health Certificate which has been updated to reflect the Version 4.1 changes; the Institute is also preparing a new certification with a primary focus on product-level circularity and material health from Version 4.1 - a draft will soon be shared for public consultation.
THE INSTITUTE: Regarded as the leading multi-attribute, science-based standard, rooted in the visionary design principles of the 2002 book Cradle to Cradle, Remaking the Way We Make Things by the Institute’s founders William McDonough and Michael Braungart, the Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard offers an unparalleled framework for designing and producing products for the circular economy.
- It represents a comprehensive pathway for continuous improvement and verification of products aimed at fostering a healthy, equitable, and sustainable future, is utilised worldwide by companies of all sizes in many industries and sectors, and is supported by an ecosystem of dedicated Assessment Bodies.
WHAT THEY SAID:
The release of Version 4.1 marks a big step forward. Building on three years of user experience and feedback on Version 4.0 from companies and our expert Assessment Bodies, this improved Version 4.1 creates a more accessible framework that still maintains the rigor and comprehensiveness that our standards are known for—companies adopting it are truly making products designed for tomorrow.
— Elwyn Grainger-Jones
Executive Director
Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute
I want to recognise the dedication and professionalism of all those involved in guiding this continued innovation in the Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard, and the deep commitment of companies that are following this journey to the circular economy.
— Christine Lemaitre
Board Chair / CEO
Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute / German Sustainable Building Council
This standard not only acknowledges the practical challenges faced by businesses but also aligns with the latest legislative developments and industry practices, ensuring the Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard continues to serve as a robust framework for sustainable product innovation.
— Susan Klosterhaus
Vice-President Science and Certification
Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute
