As a Certified B Corporation, we get queries from various organizations who have an inclination to become Certified B Corps. Although B Corp website explains the process and other commonly asked questions, SAGE Sustainability is a certified B Corp and having gone through the journey, we are delighted to answer and support any query for an aspiring B Corp. As we hand hold organizations to become a certified B Corp, we are delighted to answer some of the commonly asked questions.
Who are Certified B Corporations?
Certified B Corporations are those businesses that are Certified by a non-profit based out of USA called B Labs. These certified businesses meet the “highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose.”
Basically getting the certification is typically the calling of those businesses who think that success is possible when the businesses are inclusive and sustainable.
If non-profits are known for purpose and businesses for profits, then we are leaving purpose to one group and profits to another, which essentially means that these two remain exclusive and if one happens the other does not. That is exactly what certain organizations are not willing to accept and believe that purpose and profit can be pursued together. These organizations are are focused on purpose, impact and success and they would like to differentiate themselves and support each other.
A typical B Corp organization is addressing inequality at various levels. If business is about solving problems then it can be done without compromising on dignity for any individual, and without robbing the resources, creating impact for employees, communities and environment.
Now it becomes even more interesting when a critical mass of organizations which are B Corps come together and set up new benchmarks for how environment, employees and communities are taken care of.
So, now that there are at least some whispers happening in mainstream economy about why so much importance is given to shareholders (courtesy Simon Sinek and others), successful B Corps are ready reckoners for those who are purpose driven and create benefits for all stakeholders, not just shareholders.
As of today, there are 3301 Companies from 71 countries representing 150 industries with just one unifying goal.
If you have any further questions, send your email to contact@sagesustainability.in or reach out to 9739850945