At Cooper Parry, we’re all about helping businesses navigate the path to B Corp certification. It’s an achievement that says a lot about your commitment to addressing your social and environmental impact and performance. But as with any journey, it comes with its own set of challenges. New B Corp Standards are on the horizon. Expected to land by the end of this year, companies will need to have these changes in place by 2026. So now’s the time to gear up for what’s ahead.
SO, WHAT LIES AHEAD?
The updated standards are all about raising the bar — think more accountability, more transparency, and even tighter performance targets. There’s also a push to align B Corp Standards with existing regulations and frameworks, like the EU’s Sustainability Reporting Standards and the Green Claims Code. These changes will affect businesses worldwide, so whether you’re going for certification or recertification, you’ll want to be in the know.
Let’s take a look at the key changes coming up and how Cooper Parry can help you meet them.
WHAT’S CHANGING IN THE B CORP STANDARDS?
B Lab, the non-profit behind B Corp certification, is introducing new standards that balance ambition with continuity. The changes push businesses to tackle global issues like inequality and climate change while maintaining the high level of social and environmental impact expected of a B Corp. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Stronger Governance Requirements
The new standards up the ante on governance. You’ll need to show that your leadership is committed to making a positive social and environmental impact — and prove it with transparency and accountability.
2. Heightened Focus on Climate Action
Climate action is front and centre. It’s not enough to reduce your footprint; businesses need to get serious about sustainability and show they’re taking proactive steps. Climate action is no longer a nice-to-have — it’s a must-have.
3. Increased Inclusivity and Equity
Diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords anymore. The new standards require businesses to embed inclusivity and equity into their culture and decision-making processes. It’s about real action, not just ticking boxes.
4. Ongoing Impact Measurement
You’ll need to continuously measure your impact. Tracking, reporting, and showing improvement in your social and environmental performance over time is now part of staying compliant.
WHY DO THESE CHANGES MATTER?
These changes aren’t just about keeping your B Corp status — they reflect where businesses need to go. The world is grappling with big issues like climate change and inequality, and businesses have a role to play in tackling them. The updated standards make sure B Corps continue leading the way in driving real, meaningful change.
If you’re aiming for B Corp certification, the bar has been raised. And if you’re already certified, recertification will demand more from you in governance, impact metrics, and sustainability.
HOW COOPER PARRY CAN HELP YOU NAVIGATE THE CHANGES
Feeling daunted by the new standards? That’s where we come in. At Cooper Parry, we specialise in guiding businesses through every step of the B Corp journey, from initial certification to ongoing compliance with the new requirements.
Here’s how we can help:
STRATEGIC GUIDANCE
We’ll break down the new standards and help you figure out exactly what they mean for your business. Our aim? Not just meeting the requirements but smashing them.
IMPACT ASSESSMENT
Our team will assess your current impact, pinpoint areas for improvement, and create a clear action plan to meet the new criteria. Whether it’s in governance, climate action, or inclusivity.
CONTINUOUS SUPPORT
B Corp certification isn’t a one-and-done deal. We’ll help you track and report your impact over time, making sure you stay compliant and keep progressing.
THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS IS IMPACT-DRIVEN
These new B Corp standards reflect a broader shift in what it means to be a successful business today. Profit is no longer the only goal — purpose is just as important. At Cooper Parry, we’re passionate about helping companies not only become B Corps but also drive positive, lasting change.
Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re looking for B Corp certification or need guidance on the new standards, we’re here to help. Together, we can build a future where businesses don’t just succeed — they make a difference.
Get in touch with us today, and let’s navigate this journey together.
