Cradle to Cradle certification: what is it?

The Cradle to Cradle Certification has become a cornerstone for businesses and manufacturers committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This article will explore what Cradle to Cradle Certification is, its significance, the certification levels, and how it benefits both companies and consumers.


Cradle to Cradle is a global system of scoring brands for their commitment to the circular economy–the reduction of waste and hazardous chemicals, more efficient uses of resources and the reuse of materials, energy efficiency, and social responsibility.


The Cradle to Cradle certification helps ensure products are safe, circular, and responsibly made. It takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to sustainability, considering not only environmental factors but also social and economic elements.


A brief history of Cradle to Cradle

In 1992, McDonough and Braungart published a first book, “The Hannover Principles: Design for Sustainability”, followed by ”Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things” in which they mapped out the principles behind the Cradle to Cradle approach. In 2010, they set up the certification system and methodology and revealed it to the public through the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.


They also launched the Fashion Positive programme, working with a community of pioneering brands such as Stella McCartney to clean up fashion, reduce waste, and make clothes fairly and efficiently.


What is Cradle to Cradle Certification?

Cradle to Cradle Certification is an internationally recognized standard for products that are safe, sustainable, and designed with a focus on environmental responsibility. Developed by the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute, this certification assesses products based on their environmental and human health impacts, encouraging a circular economy where resources are continually reused.


The core idea of Cradle to Cradle (C2C) revolves around designing products that can be part of a circular life cycle, aiming for minimal waste. Instead of a traditional linear “take-make-dispose” approach, Cradle to Cradle products are created with end-of-life in mind, allowing them to return safely to nature or the production cycle.


Levels of Cradle to Cradle Certification

Cradle to Cradle Certification is available in five levels, each indicating the extent of a product’s adherence to sustainability standards. Here’s a breakdown of each level:


1. Bronze: Products meet basic sustainability requirements, such as avoiding harmful chemicals and ensuring product recyclability.

2. Silver: At this level, products achieve stricter criteria, including partial use of renewable energy and social fairness.

3. Gold: Gold-certified products demonstrate even greater commitment to sustainability, including a high level of renewable energy use and water conservation.

4. Platinum: Products at this level must achieve close-to-ideal standards in material health, product circularity, and clean energy use.

5. Certified™: This designation is awarded to products that have met the standards but have not yet achieved Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.


    The Five Key Standards

    To earn Cradle to Cradle Certification, products must be evaluated across five critical categories:


    1. Material Health: Products are assessed for the toxicity and environmental impact of their ingredients, encouraging safe materials that pose no harm to human health or the environment.

    2. Material Reutilization: This category focuses on product circularity. Products should be designed for reuse or recycling, supporting a closed-loop production system.

    3. Renewable Energy & Carbon Management: Companies are required to use renewable energy sources and manage carbon emissions to achieve lower environmental impact.

    4. Water Stewardship: Businesses must adopt sustainable water management practices, ensuring clean and sufficient water resources.

    5. Social Fairness: Cradle to Cradle certification mandates that companies ensure social fairness, from ethical labor practices to community engagement and transparent supply chains.


      Conclusion

      Cradle to Cradle Certification offers companies a clear and structured path to creating sustainable, eco-friendly products. From improved brand reputation to consumer trust, the certification brings multiple benefits while supporting a greener, circular economy. Embracing Cradle to Cradle standards allows companies to make a significant, positive impact on the environment, paving the way for a more sustainable future.


      Do you want to find out more information on circular economy and its themes? Visit Tondo’s blog! And if you are interested into finding a community of companies and organizations that focus on circular economy and share experiences, knowledge and much more, join our communities of companies!

      Emma Salioni

      WIth a degree in Digital content management for media, enterprises and cultural heritage, Emma Salioni has always had a strong interest in sustainability and circularity. After a period of time spent workin in The Netherlands, she started working with Tondo managing social media and communication, as well as supporting the organization of hackathons and events.