Get Involved
Join the 4C System
Whether you are a producer, trader, retailer or buyer in the coffee and cocoa industry.
4C offers a comprehensive certification system designed to enhance sustainability, ensure compliance with global standards, and improve market access.
For Intermediary Buyers
Learn about 4C benefits in detail and start handling 4C coffee today! In order to register and sign the ToU, please follow the link.
For Final Buyers
Interested in sourcing 4C certified coffee or cocoa and making a corresponding sustainability claim?
Why Get Involved with 4C?
Becoming 4C certified positions your company at the forefront of sustainable coffee production, trading, and buying.
How Companies Can Get Involved
Get involved today to make a significant contribution to a more sustainable and equitable coffee sector.
For Producers
Producers can benefit from tailored solutions that enhance agricultural practices, improve productivity, and ensure sustainable farming operations. 4C offers tools and resources to help producers meet certification requirements and gain access to new markets.
For Traders
(Intermediary Buyers)
Traders play a crucial role in the coffee supply chain. 4C Certification enables traders to ensure the integrity of their sourced coffee, access premium markets, and substantiate their sustainability claims with a recognised certification.
For Buyers
(Final Buyers)
Final buyers, including roasters manufacturers and importers, can ensure their coffee is sustainably sourced and traceable. 4C helps buyers meet consumer demand for ethical products and strengthen buyer confidence through transparent sourcing.
For Retailers
Retailers and brands are the final link between sustainable production and consumers. By becoming a 4C Licensee, you ensure that the products you sell carry credible sustainability claims, backed by a rigorous and independent certification system.
The 4C Certification Process
It not only enhances your operational practices but also aligns your business with global efforts to improve the coffee industry’s impact on the world.
1. Registration and Account Setup
Companies interested in obtaining 4C Certification must first register on the 4C Portal. Here, they can create an account, submit necessary business details, and begin the application process.
2. Compliance and Auditing
Following registration, companies undergo an audit to ensure compliance with the 4C Code of Conduct and standards. This audit assesses various aspects of the business operations, from environmental practices to social conditions at the production level.
3. Certification and Continuous Improvement
Once certified, companies are encouraged to continuously improve their practices. 4C supports certified entities with training, resources, and updates on best practices to help maintain their certification and enhance their sustainability performance.
4. Renewal and Verification
4C Certification requires periodic renewal through follow-up audits and verification processes to ensure ongoing compliance with 4C standards.
Getting Started with 4C
To begin your journey towards our certification, visit the How to get 4C Certified page for detailed guidance on the certification process, registration steps, and how to prepare for your audit.
Further Information