Introduction to EcoVadis and Its Importance
What is EcoVadis Rating?
EcoVadis is a globally trusted platform that evaluates how well companies manage their impact on the environment, society, and ethical business practices. It provides a clear, easy-to-understand sustainability score based on four main areas:
- Environmental practices: How a company reduces pollution, manages waste, and conserves resources.
- Labor & human rights: How a company treats employees, supports fair labor conditions, and respects human rights.
- Ethics: How a company fights corruption, ensures transparency, and follows fair business practices.
- Sustainable procurement: How a company manages its supply chain to encourage responsible sourcing.
Companies receive a detailed scorecard showing their strengths and areas to improve. This scorecard helps businesses prove their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility to customers, partners, and regulators.
More than 100,000 companies worldwide use EcoVadis, making it the leading standard for sustainable business ratings.
Why Sustainability Ratings Matter
In today’s world, sustainability is no longer optional — it is a business necessity. Here’s why EcoVadis and other sustainability ratings are so important:
- Customers demand transparency. People want to buy from companies that care about the environment and society.
- Business partners and large corporations require verified sustainability practices before signing contracts or placing orders.
- Regulatory bodies are tightening rules on environmental protection and labor rights, making compliance critical.
- Ratings help reduce supply chain risks related to unethical practices, environmental damage, or labor violations.
- A good EcoVadis score builds trust and strengthens your brand reputation.
- Companies with high ratings unlock new market opportunities and gain a competitive edge.
In essence, a strong sustainability rating shows that your company is responsible, trustworthy, and future-ready.
EcoVadis and Global Supply Chains
For large companies operating globally, managing sustainability across a wide network of suppliers is complex but essential. This is where EcoVadis plays a vital role:
- It offers a consistent, reliable way to evaluate suppliers’ sustainability performance worldwide.
- Helps global buyers ensure their entire supply chain follows high social and environmental standards.
- Supports collaboration between buyers and suppliers to improve sustainability together.
- Reduces risks linked to poor environmental or ethical practices within the supply chain.
- Often acts as a mandatory requirement for suppliers wanting to work with multinational corporations.
For suppliers, getting an EcoVadis rating is not just a badge of honor — it’s often a key to winning business from top companies.
Understanding the EcoVadis Certification Process
Is EcoVadis a Certification?
EcoVadis is often referred to as a certification, but technically, it is a sustainability rating and assessment platform. It evaluates your company’s environmental, social, and ethical practices based on internationally recognized standards, and then provides a scorecard to show how well you perform.
Unlike traditional certifications that give a pass/fail result, EcoVadis offers a detailed rating that helps companies understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
Difference Between EcoVadis Rating & Certification
Many people confuse an EcoVadis rating with a certification. Here’s the difference:
- EcoVadis Rating:
This is a score from 0 to 100 based on your company’s sustainability performance across key categories. It highlights where your company excels and where it can improve. The rating is updated annually and helps companies track progress over time. - Certification:
Traditional certifications (like ISO 14001 for environmental management) are formal approvals issued by independent bodies after audits. They confirm compliance with specific standards but usually don’t provide detailed performance scores.
EcoVadis rating is more of a comprehensive, ongoing assessment rather than a one-time certificate.
EcoVadis Scorecard Explained
After your company completes the EcoVadis assessment, you receive a scorecard. This scorecard provides:
- Overall score: Your total sustainability score on a scale from 0 to 100.
- Category scores: Breakdown of scores for each area—Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement.
- Strengths: Areas where your company is performing well.
- Improvement areas: Specific recommendations to help you boost your sustainability practices.
- Benchmarking: Comparison with other companies in your industry and region.
This scorecard is a valuable tool to guide your sustainability journey and meet the expectations of global clients.
Benefits of Getting EcoVadis Certified
Compliance & Risk Management
Getting rated by EcoVadis helps your company stay compliant with global regulations and industry standards. Many countries and sectors now require businesses to follow strict environmental and social laws. EcoVadis guides you to meet these rules and reduces the risk of legal fines or penalties.
Additionally, the rating process helps identify risks in your operations and supply chain—such as unsafe labor conditions or environmental harm—allowing you to address them proactively. This reduces potential disruptions and protects your company’s reputation.
Competitive Advantage
An EcoVadis rating sets your company apart from competitors by showcasing your commitment to sustainability. Many large companies prefer or require suppliers with strong EcoVadis scores to ensure their supply chains are ethical and responsible.
By earning a good rating, you can:
- Win more contracts and partnerships
- Access new markets that prioritize sustainability
- Attract customers who value responsible businesses
- Build a stronger, trusted brand reputation
In today’s market, sustainability is a key factor in buying decisions—and EcoVadis certification gives you an edge.
Enhanced Supplier Relationships
EcoVadis encourages transparency and collaboration between buyers and suppliers. When your company is EcoVadis rated, you build stronger, more trustworthy relationships with global partners.
Suppliers with clear sustainability practices:
- Gain better visibility in supply chains
- Receive valuable feedback and improvement suggestions from buyers
- Can participate in joint initiatives to improve sustainability
- Often experience longer-term contracts and business stability
This collaborative approach helps everyone grow responsibly and ensures a more resilient supply chain.
Key EcoVadis Requirements for Suppliers
Documentation and Evidence Needed
To complete the EcoVadis assessment, suppliers must submit clear and accurate documentation that proves their commitment to sustainability. This evidence typically includes:
- Environmental policies and records: Details on waste management, energy consumption, and carbon footprint tracking.
- Labor and human rights documentation: Employee contracts, workplace health and safety reports, and training programs.
- Ethics and compliance evidence: Policies on anti-corruption, whistleblower protection, and codes of business conduct.
- Sustainable procurement proofs: Supplier codes of conduct, subcontractor audits, and responsible sourcing documentation.
Providing thorough, up-to-date evidence is essential for achieving a strong EcoVadis rating.
CSR, ESG, and Sustainability Policy Expectations
EcoVadis looks for companies to have clear, formal policies related to:
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Demonstrating your company’s role in social responsibility, including community involvement and fair labor practices.
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG): How your business manages environmental impact, social equity, and governance transparency.
- Sustainability policies: Official documents outlining your goals and actions for reducing environmental harm, supporting social welfare, and ensuring ethical business practices.
These policies show your commitment to responsible business and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
Industry-Specific Standards
EcoVadis tailors its assessment criteria to fit different industries, recognizing that sustainability challenges vary. Examples include:
- Manufacturing: Focus on minimizing waste, controlling emissions, and ensuring workplace safety.
- Retail and Services: Emphasis on ethical sourcing, fair labor conditions, and customer data protection.
- Construction and Engineering: Prioritize environmental impact, worker health and safety, and positive community engagement.
- Agriculture and Food: Concentrate on sustainable farming methods, animal welfare, and transparency in the supply chain.
Meeting these industry-specific standards helps your company address unique sustainability risks and seize relevant opportunities.
Step-by-Step: How to Get EcoVadis Certification
Achieving an EcoVadis certification is a straightforward process designed to help your company demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. Follow these simple steps to get started and improve your score.
Step 1: Register on the EcoVadis Platform
Begin by creating an account on the official EcoVadis platform. Registration is free and easy, giving you access to all the necessary tools and resources. This platform is where you will complete the assessment and track your progress. Be sure to provide accurate company details to ensure smooth communication throughout the process.
Step 2: Complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire
After registration, you will be asked to fill out a detailed self-assessment questionnaire. This questionnaire covers important sustainability topics such as:
- Environmental management (energy use, waste reduction)
- Labor and human rights policies
- Ethical business practices
- Sustainable procurement and supply chain management
Answer these questions honestly and thoroughly. The quality of your responses will greatly impact your final EcoVadis rating, so take your time and involve relevant departments if needed.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documentation
To back up your questionnaire answers, you will need to upload supporting documents. These may include policies, reports, certificates, or other proof that demonstrates your company’s sustainability efforts. Well-organized, clear, and up-to-date documents improve the transparency and credibility of your submission, which is key to receiving a strong rating.
Step 4: Undergo Evaluation and Review
Once your questionnaire and documents are submitted, the EcoVadis expert team will carefully evaluate your submission. They compare your company’s practices against international sustainability standards and industry benchmarks. If something is unclear or incomplete, they may request additional information to ensure a fair and accurate assessment.
Step 5: Receive Your Scorecard
After the evaluation, you will receive a comprehensive EcoVadis scorecard. This report details your overall score and breaks down performance across four key areas:
- Environment
- Labor & Human Rights
- Ethics
- Sustainable Procurement
The scorecard highlights your strengths and areas for improvement, helping you understand how to advance your sustainability performance.
How to Improve Your EcoVadis Score
A strong EcoVadis score not only boosts your reputation but also enhances your chances of winning global contracts. If you’ve already received your first assessment or are planning ahead, this guide will help you improve your performance in the next review.
Common Gaps Found in Supplier Submissions
Many companies lose points in their EcoVadis assessment due to missing or weak documentation. Here are some of the most frequent gaps:
- Lack of formal policies for environment, labor rights, or ethics
- Outdated or generic documents that don't reflect current practices
- No tracking of key sustainability metrics (e.g., energy usage, emissions, employee training)
- Poor supplier oversight with limited sustainable procurement processes
- Inadequate whistleblower policies or anti-corruption training
Identifying and addressing these gaps early helps build a strong foundation for improvement.
Tips for Policy Creation & Updates
EcoVadis places high value on formal, documented policies. To score well:
- Create clearly written policies for all four scoring pillars: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement
- Ensure policies are dated, signed by top management, and updated annually
- Customize documents to reflect actual practices, not just copy-paste templates
- Translate policies into relevant languages if you have a global workforce
Examples of impactful policies include:
- Environmental Policy with energy-saving targets
- Anti-bribery and Code of Ethics policy
- Supplier Code of Conduct with auditing criteria
Performance Indicators and Continuous Improvement
Documentation alone is not enough. EcoVadis rewards companies that track progress and show continuous improvement through:
- Performance data like energy use per unit, waste reduction %, or accident rates
- Regular reviews and improvements – for example, annual updates to the policy after performance analysis
- Evidence of corrective actions, training records, or supplier engagement initiatives
- Timeline-based action plans for future improvements (e.g., goal to reduce emissions by 20% in 2 years)
EcoVadis Scorecard Explained
The EcoVadis Scorecard is the final result of your sustainability assessment. It helps you and your business partners understand how well your company performs across key responsibility areas. Here's what you need to know to interpret it correctly and aim for improvement.
Scoring Levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum
EcoVadis rates your company on a 0 to 100 score, and awards medals based on your performance compared to all assessed companies.
Medal | Score Range | Meaning |
---|---|---|
Bronze | 45–53 | Above average sustainability performance |
Silver | 54–65 | Good performance across key sustainability areas |
Gold | 66–73 | Advanced sustainability management and implementation |
Platinum | 74–100 | Top 1% of companies assessed – exceptional sustainability leadership |
Note: Not all companies receive a medal. Medals are awarded only to eligible companies based on full assessment and minimum category scores.
Weighting and Metrics Breakdown
Your overall EcoVadis score is calculated based on performance across four core themes, with each category weighted differently depending on your industry, size, and location:
Theme | Weighting Range |
---|---|
Environment | 25% – 30% |
Labor & Human Rights | 20% – 30% |
Ethics | 15% – 25% |
Sustainable Procurement | 15% – 25% |
Each theme is scored out of 100. Your final score is a weighted average, not a simple total. This means a weak performance in one category (like procurement) can significantly affect your medal eligibility.
Interpretation of Each Category
1.Environment
Focuses on your company’s environmental management and practices.
Includes:
- Energy use and emissions tracking
- Waste management
- Water consumption
- Environmental certifications (e.g., ISO 14001)
- Green product innovation
2. Labor & Human Rights
Evaluates how you treat employees and protect human rights.
Includes:
- Health & safety practices
- Non-discrimination and diversity policies
- Working conditions and hours
- Freedom of association
- Employee training and development
3. Ethics
Assesses your business integrity and ethical conduct.
Includes:
- Anti-corruption and bribery policies
- Whistleblower protection
- Fair competition practices
- Data protection and cybersecurity
4. Sustainable Procurement
Looks at how you manage your suppliers responsibly.
Includes:
- Supplier code of conduct
- Monitoring and audits of suppliers
- Responsible sourcing strategies
- Risk mapping across the supply chain
Using EcoVadis Consulting Services
Working toward a strong EcoVadis score can be challenging—especially for first-timers or small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited internal resources. That’s where EcoVadis consulting services come in.
Hiring an experienced consultant can significantly increase your chances of scoring higher and avoiding common pitfalls. Here's how they can help:
When and Why to Hire a Consultant
You should consider working with an EcoVadis consultant when:
- You’re new to the EcoVadis process and unsure how to start
- Your past rating was below expectations and you want to improve
- You lack internal sustainability expertise or dedicated compliance staff
- You’re aiming for a medal level (Silver, Gold, Platinum) to meet client requirements
- You have limited time or bandwidth to prepare policies, collect documentation, and answer the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)
A good consultant brings both technical knowledge and real-world experience, helping you avoid delays, rejections, or low scores.
Types of Services Offered
EcoVadis consultants typically provide a mix of strategic and hands-on support, tailored to your business size and industry:
1. EcoVadis Readiness Assessment
- Initial review of your current systems and gaps
- Guidance on how to align with EcoVadis requirements
2. Policy & Document Development
- Drafting or improving CSR, ESG, and sustainability policies
- Preparing whistleblower, anti-corruption, health & safety policies
- Customizing documentation for your industry
3. SAQ Support & Document Upload
- Assistance in answering the Self-Assessment Questionnaire
- Helping organize and upload the correct evidence
4. Scorecard Review & Improvement Plan
- Analyze previous EcoVadis scorecards
- Create a roadmap for improvement based on score breakdown
5. Employee Training & Awareness
- Internal training on sustainability, compliance, and ethics
- Building a culture of responsibility and accountability
6. Ongoing Sustainability Strategy
- Long-term consulting to help improve year-over-year performance
- Advisory on global ESG standards like GRI, ISO, or UN SDGs
ROI of Consulting for SMEs
For small and mid-sized companies, investing in consulting pays off in multiple ways:
- Faster Submission: Consultants speed up the process by handling documentation and platform navigation
- Higher Score: Improved documentation and alignment typically lead to better scores and medal eligibility
- More Business: A high EcoVadis rating opens doors to working with large multinationals that require supplier assessments
- Risk Reduction: Consultants help ensure full compliance and avoid costly mistakes
- Cost Savings: Better procurement and ESG practices often result in operational efficiencies
Best Practices for EcoVadis Onboarding Help
Successfully navigating the EcoVadis onboarding process requires more than just uploading documents—it calls for strong internal coordination, time management, and smart use of platform tools. Whether you're a first-time user or looking to improve your score, applying the following best practices can streamline your journey and maximize your results.
Internal Stakeholder Alignment
The EcoVadis assessment touches multiple departments—from HR and procurement to environment, compliance, and operations. Aligning internal stakeholders early ensures smoother collaboration and faster progress.
Key Tips:
- Identify key contributors from each department early on (HR, CSR, Environment, Legal, etc.)
- Assign a central coordinator to manage the EcoVadis process
- Communicate the business value of the assessment (e.g., winning more clients, compliance benefits)
- Schedule internal kick-off meetings to align everyone on goals, expectations, and timelines
Pro Tip: Involving leadership boosts internal buy-in and demonstrates your organization’s top-down commitment to sustainability.
Setting Timelines and Milestones
EcoVadis assessments involve detailed documentation and validation. Setting realistic timelines helps avoid last-minute stress and ensures a high-quality submission.
Suggested Timeline:
Phase | Suggested Duration |
---|---|
Initial Setup & Kick-off | 1 week |
Data & Policy Collection | 2–3 weeks |
Internal Review & Edits | 1 week |
SAQ Completion & Upload | 1 week |
Review & Submission | 2–3 days |
Milestone Planning:
- Prepare a task checklist with deadlines
- Assign owners for each document or section
- Set up weekly check-ins to track progress
Tip: Allow buffer time for clarifications, revisions, or missing documentation.
Using Platform Tools Effectively
The EcoVadis platform offers built-in tools to guide you through onboarding and score improvement. Knowing how to use them smartly can save time and reduce errors.
Key Tools and How to Use Them:
- Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ):
- Use the preview option to see all required questions
- Take notes on which departments can best answer each section
- Document Library:
- Upload clear, labeled files
- Match each file with the correct question or section
- Help Center and FAQs:
- Use these for clarification on scoring criteria or terminology
- Benchmark Reports (Post-Assessment):
- Compare your score with industry averages
- Identify areas to improve before your next reassessment
Bonus Tip: Create a Master Sustainability Folder
Organize all policies, reports, and compliance documents in one central location (cloud-based if possible). This speeds up future assessments and promotes continuous improvement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During EcoVadis Evaluation
Achieving a strong EcoVadis score isn't just about submitting documents—it's about submitting the right documents in the right way. Many suppliers lose valuable points due to avoidable mistakes. Here’s a breakdown of the most common pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them.
Incomplete Submissions
Problem:
Many companies rush through the assessment and leave out important documentation or only submit partial evidence. This directly impacts your score across all categories.
Examples of incomplete submissions:
- Missing environmental data (e.g., energy usage, waste reports)
- No anti-corruption or ethics training records
- Lacking supplier code of conduct or sourcing policies
Solution:
- Use the EcoVadis checklist provided after registration
- Assign document ownership to specific team members
- Cross-check all uploaded files with the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)
Pro Tip: Each claim or policy should be backed by dated and verifiable evidence.
Outdated Policies
Problem:
Submitting policies that are several years old or not updated with current laws and standards can lower your credibility and score.
Why it matters:
- EcoVadis favors policies reviewed and updated within the last 2 years
- Outdated documents suggest a lack of continuous improvement
- Legal requirements (like labor laws or emissions norms) change frequently
Solution:
- Regularly review and update all policies
- Include the revision date and version number on every policy
- Keep track of updates with a policy log or review calendar
Examples to Update Regularly:
- Code of Ethics
- Environmental Management Policy
- Employee Health & Safety Policy
- Supplier Conduct Guidelines
Misalignment with Global Standards
Problem:
Many companies submit policies that are only locally compliant but do not align with global sustainability frameworks, such as:
- UN Global Compact
- ISO 14001 / ISO 45001
- OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
- GRI Standards
Why this matters:
EcoVadis assessments are based on internationally recognized sustainability principles. Misalignment reduces your scoring potential.
Solution:
- Benchmark your policies against recognized global frameworks
- Reference international standards within your documents
- Engage an expert to review and realign your sustainability strategy
Maintaining and Renewing Your EcoVadis Certification
Achieving a good EcoVadis rating is just the beginning. To stay competitive and compliant, companies must focus on maintaining and renewing their scorecard through consistent improvements and timely reassessment. Here's what you need to know.
Validity of Scorecards
Your EcoVadis scorecard is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
Why this matters:
- Many large buyers and procurement teams require a current scorecard for vendor approval.
- An expired scorecard may remove your company from consideration in new tenders or contract renewals.
- Continuous validity signals an ongoing commitment to sustainability, ethics, and compliance.
Tip: Set up internal reminders 10–11 months after your initial assessment to begin the renewal process.
Annual Reassessment Process
To maintain your status, you’ll need to complete an annual reassessment, which includes:
- Re-registering or logging in to your EcoVadis platform account.
- Completing an updated Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) – tailored to your industry and company size.
- Uploading the latest supporting documentation – policies, procedures, and performance metrics.
- Undergoing evaluation by the EcoVadis analyst team – with possible clarification requests.
- Receiving your new scorecard – with comparative insights showing year-over-year progress.
Important: Don’t copy-paste last year’s responses. Update documents to reflect real improvements and revisions.
Tracking and Reporting Improvements
Sustainability is a journey. To improve or retain your score, show that your company is actively working toward better performance. Focus on:
- Documenting actions taken since the last assessment (e.g., new ESG initiatives, certifications, or audits)
- Using KPIs and performance indicators to demonstrate impact (e.g., energy reduction %, zero accident days, waste recycled)
- Engaging all departments in continuous improvement (e.g., HR, procurement, EHS teams)
Recommended Practices:
- Conduct internal audits every 6 months.
- Keep a centralized folder for updated policies and progress reports.
- Use EcoVadis’s collaboration tools and benchmark reports to monitor trends.
Keep Your Score Competitive Year After Year
Maintaining a strong EcoVadis rating sends a clear message: your company is serious about ethical, environmental, and sustainable business.
- Don’t wait until the last minute—start your renewal preparation today!
- Need expert help with document updates or evidence collection?
When it comes to sustainability assessments, several well-known platforms exist—but not all are the same. Companies often wonder how EcoVadis compares to CDP, Sustainalytics, and MSCI ESG Ratings. Below is a clear, simple comparison to help you understand which system suits your needs.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Real success stories help build trust and show what’s possible with the right approach. Whether you're a small business aiming for your first EcoVadis rating or a large supplier looking to improve your score, these case studies show how others have succeeded—and how you can too.
SME with First-Time Certification
Company: GreenTech Components (India)
Industry: Precision Manufacturing
Challenge: No formal sustainability system, unclear on documentation needs
Solution:
- Partnered with a sustainability consultant
- Created basic environmental and labor policies
- Collected and organized required evidence
- Submitted a complete assessment with correct documentation
Result:
- Achieved a Bronze Medal on their first attempt
- Recognized as a qualified supplier by two global clients
- Strengthened internal understanding of CSR and ESG principles
“EcoVadis seemed overwhelming at first, but with step-by-step guidance, we not only achieved a rating but also improved how we run our business.”
– Managing Director, GreenTech Components
Global Supplier Improving Score Over Time
Company: IndoFasteners Global Pvt Ltd
Industry: Automotive Supply Chain
Challenge: Initial low EcoVadis score due to gaps in ethics and sustainable procurement documentation
Solution:
- Introduced clear anti-corruption policies
- Conducted training programs for supply chain partners
- Performed internal audits and implemented corrective actions
- Updated and aligned sustainability policies with ISO 26000
Result:
- Improved score from 45 to 68 in one year
- Upgraded from no medal to Silver Medal
- Qualified for multiple new tenders in the European market
“With continuous improvement and data-driven tracking, we moved from average to above average—and clients took notice.”
– ESG Head, IndoFasteners Global
Role of Consulting in Success
Client Example: NexaChem Solutions
Industry: Specialty Chemicals
Situation: Scored 38 in the first submission; lacked ESG documentation and formal policies
Consulting Intervention:
- Gap analysis based on EcoVadis methodology
- Policy drafting and template support
- Training sessions for internal teams
- Submission review and improvement roadmap
Outcome:
- Score increased to 62 (Silver Medal) within 6 months
- Successfully renewed certification with continuous improvement metrics
- Built trust with major clients in Europe and North America
“We couldn't have navigated this without expert consulting support—it saved us time, stress, and helped us meet global expectations.”
– Operations Director, NexaChem
Want to Be the Next Success Story?
Whether you're new to EcoVadis or looking to boost your score:
- Get expert guidance
- Save time and avoid mistakes
- Stand out in global supply chains
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about the EcoVadis certification process. Whether you're new to EcoVadis or looking to improve your score, these answers will help you navigate your journey with confidence.
1.How long does it take to get EcoVadis certification?
Answer:
The full EcoVadis assessment process typically takes 6 to 8 weeks from registration to receiving your scorecard. The timeline depends on:
- The completeness of your documentation
- How quickly you complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire
- EcoVadis’s evaluation queue and complexity of your submission
Tip: Submitting all required documents early can speed up your results.
2. How often is the EcoVadis score updated?
Answer:
Your EcoVadis score is valid for 12 months from the date of publication. To maintain or improve your score, you will need to undergo a reassessment every year.
Many companies use the annual cycle to track improvements, close gaps, and meet new sustainability standards.
3. Can a low EcoVadis score be improved?
Answer:
Absolutely. Many companies start with a low score and improve year after year by:
- Updating their sustainability policies
- Submitting more complete and up-to-date documentation
- Acting on EcoVadis feedback and corrective actions
Working with a consultant can also help identify quick wins and long-term improvements.
4. Is EcoVadis mandatory for all suppliers?
Answer:
EcoVadis is not legally mandatory, but many large corporations (especially in Europe and North America) require their suppliers to be rated as part of responsible sourcing policies.
If your client or buyer has asked for an EcoVadis score, it’s best to start the process early to avoid delays in qualification.
5. What’s the cost of EcoVadis certification?
Answer:
EcoVadis charges an annual fee, which depends on your company size and other criteria.
6. Do big corporations use EcoVadis data?
Answer:
Yes. Over 100,000 companies, including giants like Nestlé, Johnson & Johnson, Unilever, and L’Oréal, use EcoVadis data to:
- Evaluate suppliers
- Mitigate sustainability risks
- Make procurement decisions
Having a strong EcoVadis score can directly impact your ability to win and retain business with global clients.
Conclusion: Taking the Next Steps Toward Sustainability Leadership
Achieving a strong EcoVadis score is more than just ticking boxes — it's about building a responsible, future-ready business that meets the expectations of global customers and partners.
Whether you're a first-time applicant or looking to improve your current score, focusing on continuous improvement, transparent documentation, and strategic alignment with sustainability goals can help you stay compliant and competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Final Tips for Staying Compliant and Competitive
- Stay Current: Update your policies and documentation annually to reflect the latest regulatory and ESG trends.
- Engage Internally: Train teams and align departments to ensure consistent and accurate data across functions.
- Act on Feedback: Use the EcoVadis scorecard recommendations to implement real improvements.
- Benchmark Progress: Compare your performance to industry peers and global standards to identify growth areas.
- Consider Expert Support: Work with EcoVadis consultants to streamline submissions and maximize your score.
Becoming a sustainability leader starts today.
Need help improving your EcoVadis score?
Book a free consultation with our team of sustainability and compliance experts.