Good to know
Frequently asked
questions.
Eligibility, assessment, using your certification, and support.
Can I pursue multiple certifications?
Yes. Many organizations pursue 2–3 certifications aligned with material sustainability issues.
Which certification should we start with?
Use Find Your Fit or contact the team. We recommend starting with the certification addressing your organization's highest-material issue.
Do we need to be perfect to get certified?
No. Certification requires genuine commitment and structured practices rather than perfection, and organizations may improve during assessment.
How long does certification take?
The overall range is 8–16 weeks depending on the certification. Most organizations move from application to certification in 2–3 months.
What if we do not pass?
Organizations receive detailed gap feedback and may reapply after implementing improvements, typically 12 months later. To protect independence, the assessor who carried out the assessment does not advise on remediation.
Can we use the badge in marketing?
Yes. The badge links to a public certification record, and BEW provides digital assets and usage guidelines.
For organizations
Certification in practice
Eligibility & Fit
3 questionsIs my organization too small?
No. Certifications are designed for organizations of all sizes, with scope and effort adjusted accordingly.
Do I need to operate in a specific country?
No. BEW is a global authority. Remote assessment or training-partner support may be possible where local assessor coverage is unavailable.
What if we already have ISO, B Corp, or another certification?
Existing certifications and third-party data can support the assessment but do not replace BEW's independent criteria.
Assessment & Process
4 questionsWhat happens if we do not pass?
You receive detailed feedback on gaps and can reapply after remediation, typically after 12 months.
Can we appeal?
Yes. An appeal can be requested within 30 days. An independent panel reviews the assessment and issues a final decision.
How long is certification valid?
3 years, with annual recertification and compliance checks.
Can we work with a consultant during assessment?
Yes. Consultants may assist with data collection, gap analysis, or remediation, but the assessment itself must remain independent.
Using Certification
3 questionsCan we use the BEW badge?
Yes. It may be used on websites, reports, packaging, and marketing materials, subject to usage guidelines. The badge should link to the public certification record.
Can BEW certification appear in investor reports?
Yes. Certification is intended for use in ESG disclosures, annual reports, and investor decks.
What if certification is lost?
The badge can no longer be used while certification is inactive. The directory remains transparent about status and date, and reapplication may occur the following year.
Support
3 questionsWhere is a sample questionnaire available?
Every applicant receives the sample questionnaire for their pathway in Stage 2, with the assessment framework and preparation checklist. To see one before you apply, email certify@betterearthworkplace.com.
Is training available?
Yes: webinars, written guides, and one-on-one orientation calls.
Who is the contact during the process?
The assessor is the primary contact. Broader BEW process questions can be directed to certify@betterearthworkplace.com.
Still have questions?
Talk to the team.
Schedule a 20-minute consultation and we will walk you through the pathway that fits.