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ISCC PLUS

Infomation Implementation Q&A

ISCC Plus is an extension of the global certification standard ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification), which covers sustainable raw materials, semi-finished products and products (bio, bio-circular, circular) and renewable energy sources and alternative fuels from the plastics, bioplastics, chemical, feed and food industries.

ISCC Plus goes beyond the RED directive, enabling the certification of raw materials that are not covered by the directive and are used in other market sectors.

ISCC Plus aims to reduce the use of fossil raw materials in favor of using renewable and recycled raw materials. Therefore, it fits into the circular economy and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG).

Currently, only certificates issued by this system are accepted within ISCC PLUS, and other certification schemes are not recognized.

We offer support in obtaining and maintaining the ISCC PLUS certificate:

  • Preparation of documentation in accordance with ISCC EU requirements
  • GHG emission calculation in accordance with the directive
  • Quarterly reporting and reporting
  • PoS consultation
  • Preparation for certification and monitoring audits
  • Closing of non-conformities after a certification or monitoring audit

Infomation


Who should obtain the ISCC PLUS certificate?

ISCC Plus is a voluntary standard, most often enforced by the presence of ISCC PLUS in the supply chain.

ISCC PLUS enables obtaining certificates at every stage of the value chain – from raw material to the final product. This certification ensures:

  • Reliable confirmation of the use of sustainable materials
  • Stabilization of the market position by reducing the use of fossil raw materials in favor of renewable and recycled ones,
  • Meeting customer expectations in the field of the supply of sustainable materials,
  • Distinction on the market thanks to the ISCC logo, which indicates the use of alternative and primary materials,
  • Confirmation of commitment to the transformation of the economy towards a closed economy and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ESG.

ISCC PLUS certification can be used to certify:

ISCC PLUS certification can be used to certify renewable and recycled materials that support the development of the circular economy and bioeconomy, including:

  • Agricultural and forestry raw materials,
  • Waste and biogenic residues,
  • Non-fossil materials,
  • Circular materials,
  • Other innovative raw materials.

Implementation


The implementation of ISCC PLUS requirements and preparation for certification is based on the cooperation of your company with an experienced team of consultants. We use the best consulting practices, which is why at Silk Road Certification we carry out the implementation in several stages:

STAGE I: Preliminary analysis

We need to get to know your organization well so that the quality management system best meets its needs and functions for its development. That is why we want to consult with its representatives in order to determine:

  • the scope of certification,
  • the processes implemented in the organization,
  • checking their compliance with the requirements of the ISCC PLUS system, including by analyzing internal documents.

STAGE II: Preparation and submission of necessary documentation

Based on the information collected, we prepare the required documents in accordance with the ISCC PLUS standard.

In addition, we can make them available in the electronic quality book ksiegajakosci.pl, where you will have full access to the documentation, with the ability to edit, add and delete materials.

After registering your company in the ISCC database, we support the organization of the audit by contacting the certification body and determining the audit details.

STAGE III: Finalization and training

After the documentation is accepted, we organize online training that covers the ISCC PLUS principles, maintaining system documentation and preparation for the certification audit.

We help ensure smooth implementation of the system in your company, so that its requirements are clear and consistent with the implemented processes.

STAGE IV: ISCC PLUS audit and certification

An auditor from the selected certification body checks the documentation for compliance with ISCC PLUS requirements. After a successful audit, your company receives an ISCC PLUS certificate and is entered on the official system list.

Silk Road Certification ensures the presence of a consultant during the certification audit. His/her task is to provide substantive support during the assessment. We also guarantee the implementation of all post-audit recommendations regarding the documentation we have developed, if necessary.


Q&A


Currently, only certificates issued by ISCC PLUS are accepted,
other certification schemes are not recognized.

Yes, ISCC PLUS is recognized worldwide by trade partners, especially in Europe and Asia.

Yes, it is possible to certify a material that is not on the ISCC PLUS material list. We will be happy to prepare a personalized offer for you.

The ISCC PLUS certification process involves several key stages that are designed to confirm compliance with the sustainability criteria. Each of these stages is essential to ensure compliance with legal requirements and system standards.

  1. Preparation and registration
    The company applying for certification registers with the ISCC system. At this stage, a certification body with the appropriate authorization to conduct ISCC PLUS audits must also be selected. Then, data on the activities and materials to be covered by certification is reported.
  2. On-site compliance audit
    The auditor conducts a detailed assessment at the certified location, verifying compliance with the ISCC PLUS criteria. The assessment includes documentation analysis, observation of operational processes and interviews with employees.
  3. Mass balance analysis
    This stage verifies the mass balance system that allows tracking the quantities of sustainable materials in the supply chain. This is to confirm that the declared quantities of biomass or biofuels actually meet the requirements of the system.
  4. Reporting and certification decision
    Based on the audit results and analysis of the documentation, the auditor prepares a report.
  5. If all criteria are met, the ISCC PLUS certificate is issued. This certificate is valid for one year and requires annual renewal through another audit.
  6. Supervision and monitoring
    Once certified, the company must comply with the ISCC system rules and undergo periodic inspections to ensure continued compliance.

ISCC PLUS is a voluntary scheme with a global scope, covering markets outside the EU and various sectors such as industry, food and feed. It is more flexible and restrictive, accepting only ISCC PLUS certificates.

ISCC EU is a mandatory certification scheme for entities operating on the EU market in the biofuels, biomass and bioliquids sector, ensuring compliance with the RED II directive. It is mainly aimed at companies producing fuels for transport and energy production, requiring compliance with sustainability criteria, including the protection of biodiversity and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. ISCC EU also accepts other certification schemes recognised by the European Commission.

The cost of ISCC PLUS certification includes:

  1. implementation services
  2. the cost of certification by an external entity accredited in this area and depends on the specifics of the company and the complexity of the processes
  3. a fee to the owner of the standard.

We will be happy to prepare a personalized quote for you.