4C Impact
Our Global Alignment
Driving Sustainability Across Global Supply Chains
4C’s robust certification system combines innovative, risk-based auditing with a comprehensive integrity programme, ensuring credibility, transparency, and tangible impact on the ground.
We work to improve smallholder livelihoods, protect ecosystems, and support companies meeting and exceeding their sustainability commitments.
4C is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Our vision and operations are closely aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the global framework for ending poverty, protecting the planet, and promoting peace and prosperity.
While 4C contributes to all SDGs, our strongest impacts are in:
We achieve this through:
Implementing the 4C Code of Conduct across certified supply chains.
Facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogue to accelerate sector-wide transformation.
Delivering targeted sustainability projects focused on climate, gender, and livelihoods.
Recognised by Independent Benchmarking
The International Trade Centre (ITC) conducted an independent benchmarking of voluntary sustainability standards, assessing their contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
4C’s internal SDG analysis is reinforced by ITC’s conclusions, confirming that the 4C Certification System meaningfully advances multiple SDGs, with particularly strong contributions to climate action, environmental conservation, and social well-being.
Credibility with ISEAL Membership
4C is a full member of the ISEAL Alliance, the global association for credible sustainability systems. ISEAL membership means that 4C:
Meets rigorous Codes of Good Practice for standard-setting, assurance, and impact measurement.
Commits to continuous improvement through regular independent evaluations.
Aligns with internationally recognised best practices in sustainability certification.
This recognition reinforces our status as a credible, transparent, and trusted partner in advancing sustainable agriculture worldwide.
Our Commitment to Global Standards
Through alignment with the SDGs, independent benchmarking, and ISEAL membership, 4C ensures its work is anchored in globally recognised sustainability frameworks. This not only strengthens our certification system but also enables our system users demonstrate measurable and credible progress towards their own sustainability goals.
Further Information