ISO 14067 - Greenhouse gases - Carbon footprint of products is an international standard that provides basic principles, requirements and guidelines for quantifying and reporting the carbon footprint of products (CFP). These products can include goods and services, and the standard considers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals throughout the product’s life cycle. It also offers guidance for the CFP sub-assessment. Communication about the CFP must be accurate, relevant, honest, and ensure transparency and accountability.

Carbon Footprint of Products (CFP)

CFP represents the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions and removals associated with a product from raw material extraction to its production, distribution, use and disposal. Understanding and quantifying CFP is key for organizations seeking to reduce their environmental impact and make informed decisions about sustainability.

When an organization decides to make its CFP communications publicly available, it has two options to ensure compliance with ISO 14067:

1. Independent third-party verification

This includes an external review of the CFP study to confirm its accuracy and compliance with ISO 14067. Organizations such as SGS can conduct audits and verify products against this standard.

2. CFP Disclosure Report

If third-party verification is not performed, companies must prepare a detailed CFP disclosure report that objectively and accurately reflects the results of the CFP study. It is essential that the report contains all necessary information and is properly sent to the intended audience. If this communication has not been verified, it cannot include records of the third-party verification.

Also, if CFP claims, labels or declarations need to be publicly communicated, existing CFP-PCR (Carbon Footprint Product Rules) should be followed. If such rules are not available, they should be developed based on ISO guidelines.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) stages for ISO 14067

ISO 14067 requires a comprehensive life cycle analysis (LCA) to accurately quantify CFP. LCA consists of four main phases:

1. Defining the objective and scope: In this phase, the objectives and framework of the study are established, including the product system, functional unit, and GHGs assessed.

2. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI): This phase collects data on all relevant inputs (e.g. energy, materials) and outputs (e.g. emissions, waste) associated with a product system throughout its life cycle.

3. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA): This phase focuses on assessing the potential environmental impacts of the product system based on LCI data, with a focus on greenhouse gas emissions and removals.

4. Lifecycle Interpretation: The final phase involves analyzing the results of the LCI and LCIA, with the aim of drawing conclusions, identifying areas for improvement, and communicating the results.

Benefits of ISO 14067 certification for your company

Obtaining ISO 14067 certification brings a number of benefits to companies that go beyond simply complying with regulatory requirements. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Strengthening relationships

Transparent reporting of greenhouse gas emissions throughout a product's life cycle increases stakeholder trust, thereby motivating them to become more actively involved in corporate sustainability initiatives.

2. Attracting customers

Clear labeling of products with a lower carbon footprint helps companies gain the preference of eco-conscious customers, increasing their market share and driving sales growth.

3. Leadership in sustainability

ISO 14067 certification places a company at the forefront of sustainability efforts, driving industry-wide emissions reductions. Such leadership can inspire others in the public and private sectors to adopt similar initiatives.

4. Increased operational efficiency

The rigorous assessment required to obtain certification allows companies to identify inefficient processes and areas of potential waste, which can lead to significant cost savings and operational efficiencies.

5. Better risk management

By being transparent about greenhouse gas emissions, companies can manage environmental risks more effectively, which in turn improves their reputation and strengthens stakeholder trust.

6. Improving ESG assessments

Compliance with ISO 14067 reinforces a company's environmental, social and governance (ESG) values. Emphasis on sustainable practices can improve a company's image and align its operations with global sustainability goals.

7. Support of other certifications

ISO 14067 certification can create a basis for obtaining other ISO standards, which contributes to the creation of a comprehensive management system and increases the overall effectiveness of the organization.

8. Cyclical improvement

The certification process helps identify areas where environmental improvements can be made, paving the way for setting and achieving more ambitious sustainability goals.

Steps to apply for ISO 14067 certification

Obtaining ISO 14067 certification, which focuses on the greenhouse gas emissions of products, requires a clear approach and attention to detail. Here is a quick guide to help your company navigate the process:

1. Preliminary preparation

Start by gathering all relevant documents related to your products’ greenhouse gas emissions. This first step will ensure you have a comprehensive overview of your current sustainability measures.

2. Opt for professional help

Many companies hire external consultants to simplify the process. Arbor can help you quantify your emissions and prepare a verified proposal for the certification agency. Although it is not mandatory, experts can ease the administration and streamline the entire application process.

3. Submission of documentation

Submit your preliminary documentation to a third party for review. These experts will check that your materials meet the requirements of ISO 14067.

– Internal audit: Perform a review of your collected documents within the company.

– Consultant review: If you are working with an external expert, provide them with documentation for verification.

4. Verification process

A third party will review your documentation to ensure its suitability for ISO 14067 certification.

– Sufficient documentation: If your materials are in order, the agency will process your application.

– Insufficient documentation: If there are deficiencies, it will advise you what additional information is needed.

5. Certification

Once your documentation is deemed sufficient, the third party will process your application and grant ISO 14067 certification.

Renewal: Remember that ISO 14067 certification is not permanent. Plan for regular renewals and ensure accurate and up-to-date records.

Key information

– Initial preparation: Gathering all documents related to the emissions.

– Third-party assistance: Optional, but facilitates smooth processing.

– Verification: Ensure that all documentation meets ISO standards.

– Certification and Renewal: Get certified and schedule regular renewals.

By following these structured steps, your company can effectively secure ISO 14067 certification, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (Co2AI)