How certifications like B Corp, 1% for the Planet and EcoVadis build trust, win work and strengthen supply chains
In a crowded and often confusing marketplace, trust has become one of the most valuable currencies a brand can build. For businesses trying to demonstrate genuine commitment to people and planet, certification offers something marketing claims alone cannot: independent, third-party verification.
Certifications such as B Corp, EcoVadis, 1% for the Planet and Living Wage accreditation signal that a company’s claims have been externally assessed. They show that impact is not just part of a narrative, but embedded in how a business operates.
For consumers, certification acts as a shortcut to credibility. As sustainability claims increase, so does scepticism. Recognised certifications provide reassurance that a brand meets defined standards for environmental and social performance.
For businesses, certification is increasingly influencing procurement decisions. Large organisations and public sector bodies are under pressure to build responsible supply chains, and certifications offer a clear, comparable way to assess suppliers.
There is also a significant internal value. Certification frameworks require companies to measure impact, identify gaps and improve practices, from governance to employee wellbeing. They don’t just help businesses communicate better; they help them operate better.
And from a communications perspective, certification provides something invaluable: proof. It turns claims into substantiated stories and trust.
This shift is only set to accelerate. Incoming EU Green Claims regulations will require brands to back up environmental messaging with clear, verifiable evidence, raising the bar for how sustainability is communicated. Certifications like B Corp, EcoVadis and 1% for the Planet offer a ready-made foundation for credible, compliant storytelling.
What is B Corp certification and is it worth it?
What is B Corp certification?
B Corp certification is awarded by the non-profit B Lab to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Businesses are assessed across five areas: governance, workers, community, environment and customers.
How much does B Corp certification cost?
Costs vary based on company revenue. As of recent B Lab guidance, annual certification fees typically start from around £1,000–£2,000 but is dependent on type of business, industry and revenue. There is also an assessment process that requires time and internal resource.
What is involved in becoming a B Corp?
Companies must complete the B Impact Assessment, achieve a minimum verified score of 80, provide supporting documentation, and legally embed stakeholder consideration into their governance.
Why is B Corp certification valuable for brands?
From a communications perspective, B Corp is one of the most recognised sustainability certifications globally. It provides a credible, holistic proof point that can underpin brand messaging, strengthen reputation and differentiate in competitive pitches, particularly where clients prioritise responsible suppliers. Here’s why B Corp matters to us at Wilful.
What is 1% for the Planet and how does it work?
What is 1% for the Planet?
1% for the Planet is a global movement where businesses commit to donating 1% of annual revenue (not profit) to approved environmental organisations.
How much does 1% for the Planet cost?
The commitment is simple: 1% of revenue annually, alongside a modest membership fee. This makes it one of the most transparent and tangible forms of environmental contribution.
What is involved in becoming a member?
Businesses commit to the 1% pledge, donate to approved environmental partners, and report annually to verify contributions.
Why is 1% for the Planet valuable for brands?
It provides a clear, easy-to-communicate commitment to environmental impact. From a storytelling perspective, it moves brands beyond operational sustainability into direct contribution, which resonates strongly with both consumers and stakeholders.
What is EcoVadis certification and what does it measure?
What is EcoVadis?
EcoVadis is a globally recognised sustainability ratings platform used by procurement teams to assess suppliers. It evaluates companies across environment, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.
How much does EcoVadis cost?
EcoVadis operates on a subscription model, with fees typically starting from a few hundred pounds per year and increasing depending on company size and level of service.
What is involved in the EcoVadis assessment?
Companies complete a detailed questionnaire and submit documentation, which is then assessed and scored. Businesses receive a rating (e.g. Bronze, Silver, Gold) based on performance.
Why is EcoVadis important for brands?
EcoVadis is particularly powerful in B2B and procurement contexts. Many large organisations require or strongly favour EcoVadis-rated suppliers, making it a valuable commercial asset as well as a sustainability benchmark.
What is Living Wage accreditation and why does it matter?
What is Living Wage accreditation?
The Living Wage Foundation accredits employers who commit to paying all staff (and regularly contracted workers) a real Living Wage based on the cost of living.
How much does Living Wage accreditation cost?
Fees vary by organisation size, starting from a few hundred pounds per year for smaller businesses.
What is involved in becoming accredited?
Employers must commit to paying the Living Wage, ensure third-party contractors meet the standard where applicable, and maintain compliance.
Why is Living Wage accreditation valuable for brands?
It provides a clear signal of fair employment practices. From a communications perspective, it strengthens employer brand, supports recruitment and retention narratives, and demonstrates tangible social impact.
Why certification is becoming a business expectation, not a differentiator
Across all four frameworks, a common theme emerges: certification is no longer just a “nice to have”.
It is increasingly:
- A trust signal for consumers
- A filter for procurement teams
- A framework for better business practices
- A foundation for credible storytelling
At Wilful, we’re proud to be a B Corp, a 1% for the Planet member, EcoVadis certified and a Living Wage Employer. These are not badges for marketing, they are structures that shape how we operate and how we help clients communicate.
Celebrating the UK’s B1 community
We’re also proud to be part of the growing community of UK “B1s” — businesses that are both B Corps and members of 1% for the Planet.
Some of the “B1s” we’re loving right now include gorgeous sustainable supplements, Ancient + Brave, gut-friendly pet food, Scrumbles, the ultimate sunnies SunGod, Wilful’s favourite holiday tracker, Timetastic, low-carbon mobile network, Honest Mobile.
Together, they demonstrate something powerful: responsible business is no longer niche — it’s a movement.
And the more businesses that commit, measure and improve, the stronger that movement becomes.
