B Corp certification has long been a symbol of responsible business practices. In April 2025, the B Corp standards underwent their seventh major update, introducing substantial changes that specifically focus on environmental performance. B Corp states that the goal of these new standards is to “establish a stronger, more transparent foundation for all businesses committed to building an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative global economy”.
For many companies, these changes represent an opportunity to advance their sustainability goals while meeting a growing demand for transparent, science-backed practices. Let’s take a look at the key updates to the B Corp certification, especially in relation to environmental requirements where there is particular emphasis on carbon emissions, climate action, and supply chain management.
One of the most significant changes to the B Corp certification process is the updated structure of the B Impact Assessment (BIA). Now, businesses must navigate a two-stage process, first addressing "Foundational Requirements" before diving into more specific Impact Topic Requirements. This shift ensures that all companies meet baseline standards before they are evaluated in detail on specific sustainability topics, including the environment.
Another important change is the move from a points-based scoring system to mandatory minimum requirements across various Impact Topics. In the past, companies could score low in one category, like the environment, and make up for it with high scores in other areas. Now, businesses must meet baseline standards in every category to earn certification, making environmental performance a non-negotiable element of the process.
Under the new standards, the once-single Environment section is now split into two distinct topics: Climate Action and Environmental Stewardship and Circularity. This division clarifies the expectations for companies and places a greater emphasis on climate change mitigation.
This topic covers emissions management in a much more detailed manner. Companies are required to:
The Climate Action topic is now a comprehensive document, that provides clear guidance on how companies should manage and reduce their carbon footprint.
This topic focuses on areas traditionally considered environmental management, such as resource use, waste management, biodiversity conservation, and adopting circular practices. Companies must prove they are integrating these practices into their operations, making sustainability a core part of their business model.
The new standards take company size into account, recognising that smaller businesses have different capacities and resources than larger enterprises. For companies with over $350 million in revenue or more than 1,000 employees, the standards require more detailed Climate Transition Plans backed by data, with validated Scope 3 emissions and full supply chain due diligence. These companies must:
However, smaller businesses are not yet required to measure emissions or set Net Zero targets. This flexibility is intended to give SMEs time to build the capacity for more robust climate action in future certification cycles.
Another key change is the increased emphasis on supply chain management. Companies are now expected to identify environmental risks throughout their supply and value chains and take proactive steps to address them. This ensures that businesses are not only focusing on their own operations but also on the broader impact of their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
With the new standards, continuous improvement is a mandatory aspect of retaining B Corp certification. While the points-based system has been replaced by a focus on baseline requirements, companies must demonstrate progress through a phased approach. For many smaller businesses, the early years of certification won’t require major improvements in environmental performance, but companies will need to show commitment to advancing their efforts at each three year re-certification cycle.
Navigating the updated B Corp standards, particularly in relation to environmental impact management, can be complex and challenging. However, with the right tools, businesses can not only meet these requirements but also leverage them as a springboard for deeper sustainability practices.
Sustained’s platform is designed to support companies in achieving and maintaining B Corp certification by providing the tools needed for product-level environmental impact measurement (LCA/PCF), supply chain engagement, and sustainable product innovation. Sustained empowers businesses to measure their environmental impacts at the product level, helping them meet B Corp’s updated requirements for detailed carbon footprint assessments, climate action plans, and supply chain management. Whether you're a small business just beginning your environmental journey or a large enterprise refining your sustainability practices, Sustained’s platform makes it easy to measure and manage environmental impacts, integrate sustainability into your operations, and track progress against your targets.
By integrating environmental data into every aspect of your business, Sustained helps you stay ahead of the curve, drive continuous improvement, and meet the rigorous standards of B Corp certification.
Get in touch to learn more about how our customers use Sustained for B Corp certification.