CO2 Performance Ladder step by step

1. Determine level or step

Start by checking which level or step you need. The tender document often states which level is required, or which tender advantage belongs to which level. For many companies, level 3 or step 1 is the starting point.

A higher level gives more advantage, but it also costs more work. Do not start higher than necessary.

2. Establish scope

Determine which parts of your organisation count. Often that is your whole company, but for large groups you sometimes choose one part. The scope determines what you measure and what your certificate covers.

Note: your scope must match the tenders for which you use the certificate. A scope that is too narrow can cause problems later.

3. Calculate CO2 footprint

Now you map out your emissions. This is your emissions inventory. For the lower levels, you count scope 1 (direct emissions, such as fuel) and scope 2 (purchased energy, such as electricity). Higher levels and steps also require scope 3 (the chain).

The full explanation is on calculating your CO2 footprint. Many companies underestimate this step: collecting consumption data takes time.

4. Reduction targets and plan

Using your footprint as a basis, you set reduction targets. They must be concrete and measurable, for example 5% less emissions per year. Then you make a plan with measures, such as electric equipment, solar panels or more economical driving.

The ladder wants to see demonstrable progress. A target without measures is not enough.

5. Communicate and participate

You communicate internally and externally about your CO2 policy. Think of a page on your website and information for your employees. In addition, you take part in an initiative in your sector, for example an industry working group on sustainability.

These two angles, transparency and participation, are often underestimated. Start on time.

6. Internal audit

Before the external auditor comes, you test your own system. Is your footprint correct? Are your targets substantiated? Do you have evidence of your communication and participation? A management review also belongs here.

This way you avoid surprises during the ladder assessment.

7. Ladder assessment by the CI

An accredited certification body (CI) carries out the ladder assessment. The auditor checks your documents and your practice. If the result is positive, you receive your certificate, which is valid for three years.

After that, the auditor returns every year for a surveillance audit. The whole audit process is explained separately.