FantasticSearch

1. A recognised certification scheme shall meet the following criteria:

(a) it is open under transparent, fair and non-discriminatory terms to all economic operators willing and able to comply with the scheme’s requirements and subject to multi-stakeholder governance;

(b) verification and monitoring of compliance is objective, based on international, Union or national standards, requirements and procedures and carried out independently from the relevant economic operator;

(c) it includes sufficient requirements and procedures to ensure the competence and independence of the verifiers responsible;

(d) it includes requirements to ensure an audit-report established at the site level.

2. The requirements for certification shall include at least:

(a) requirements ensuring environmentally sustainable practices, including requirements ensuring environmental management and impact mitigation in the following environmental risk categories:

(i) air, including air pollution such as greenhouse gas emissions;

(ii) water, including seabed and marine environment, and water pollution, water use, water quantities, taking into account flooding or droughts, and access to water;

(iii) soil, including soil pollution, soil erosion, land use and land degradation;

(iv) biodiversity, including damage to habitats, wildlife, flora and ecosystems, including ecosystem services;

(v) hazardous substances;

(vi) noise and vibration;

(vii) plant safety; (viii) energy use;

(ix) waste and residues;

(b) requirements for ensuring socially responsible practices, including respect for human rights and labour rights including the community life of indigenous peoples;

(c) requirements for ensuring business integrity and transparency including requirements to apply sound management of financial, environmental and social matters and anti-corruption and anti-bribery policies.