About us
Who we are
4C is an independent, stakeholder-driven, internationally recognised third party certification system for coffee and cocoa.
It adopts a holistic approach to sustainability, enabling coffee farmers in take part in responsible supply chains that foster economic resilience, fair and safe working conditions, and the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity.
The 4C Code of Conduct establishes clear criteria for sustainable practices across three interconnected dimensions: social, environmental, and economic.
What We Do
Third Party Certification Scheme
Training and Capacity Building
Stakeholder Engagement
Global Recognition and Alignment
Innovative Solutions for Compliance and Due Diligence
We support farmers, traders, and roasters in improving their practices through third-party verified certification, practical tools, and continuous improvement strategies.
Our Vision
4C strives for a world in which the responsible production of coffee and cocoa contributes positively to the environment and to people.
Our Mission
4C aims to anchor sustainability by providing a robust and transparent third-party certification system that creates added value for all actors, users and businesses within the coffee and cocoa sector.
Sustainability Principles and Criteria of the 4C Certification System
The 4C Code of Conduct is the foundation of the 4C Certification System. Developed through a transparent, multi-stakeholder initiative, it defines the principles and criteria of sustainability for the responsible production and processing of coffee and cocoa.
It promotes continuous improvement across the environmental, social, and economic dimensions, aiming to enhance conditions throughout the global coffee and cocoa supply chains.
Environmental
No deforestation
CO2 reduction
Water and soil protection
Regenerative Agriculture
Social
Safe working conditions
Fair wages
Human and labour rights
Education and livelihoods
Economic
Farmer income
Cooperative strength
Yield and quality
Supply security
Compliance
Supporting regulation compliance
Certification as risk mitigation
With over 30 million bags of certified green coffee produced in 2024 alone, the 4C system is globally recognised for advancing sustainable practices.
Producers Groups
Smallholders, cooperatives, and producer groups form the backbone of 4C.
By adopting the 4C Code of Conduct, they improve farming practices, strengthen resilience, and contribute to sustainable coffee and cocoa production.
Intermediaries Buyers
Traders and distributors play a crucial role in connecting producers with global markets.
Through 4C certification, they help to ensure transparency, traceability, and integrity across supply chains.
Buyers
Roasters, processors, and manufacturers rely on 4C certification to source responsibly.
By working with certified producers and partners, they fulfil sustainability commitments and respond to consumer demand for ethical products.
Retailers
Shops, cafés, and supermarkets showcase products that carry the 4C seal. This helps consumers make informed choices and supports responsible sourcing from farm to shelf.
Certification Bodies
Independent and accredited certification bodies audit users of the 4C system. Through regular training and strict oversight, they ensure the credibility and robustness of the 4C certification system.
Multi-Stakeholder Initiative
4C was founded as a collaborative effort bringing together producers, traders, roasters, retailers, civil society, and research institutions.
This inclusive approach ensures that diverse perspectives shape the system and drive meaningful and lasting sustainability in the coffee and cocoa sectors.
If you are looking for a way to improve the sustainability footprint of the coffee supply chains, get in touch with us.
Further Information