Questions & Answers
TRANSPARENT INFORMATION FOR BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS TO UNDERSTAND CONFICERT.
Here you can find answers to the most common questions about CONFICERT, membership, certification, and transparency. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us.
1. ABOUT CONFICERT BRANDS
Everything you need to know about how our labels work.
What types of brands does CONFICERT promote?
CONFICERT promotes B2C global brands committed to values and principles that provide transparent and verifiable information on certified product or service quality. Applicable to any sector that pursues standards based on transparency and market value.
How is CONFICERT different from other Brands or certifications?
CONFICERT offers full transparency on what each Brand certifies, how it is audited, and what values support it—empowering consumers with verified information.
Can CONFICERT become a greenwashing tool?
No. CONFICERT is designed to prevent greenwashing. Brands promoted by CONFICERT stand out because they provide complete transparency about each seal and the certification process behind it. Any sustainability or related claims are backed by an impartial, third-party certification, and all supporting information is transparent, clear, and always accessible by our Transparency Portal.
Does CONFICERT add complexity to the certification system?
No, just the opposite. CONFICERT simplifies decision-making by providing clear, accessible, verifiable information behind each label in a non-technical language easy understandable for everybody.
Are CONFICERT Brands recognized by institutions like the EU or MAPA?
Not officially yet, but all brands comply with EU and national legislation, sustainability directives, and consumer transparency requirements.
Are CONFICERT Brands limited to the agri-food sector?
No. CONFICERT can create and promote labels (Brands) for any sector. Future labels cover, for instance, energy, water use, gender equality, tourism, cosmetics, construction, among others.
Why would a company with an existing label choose CONFICERT?
Beyond differences in requirements or scope between labels, CONFICERT offers two clear advantages:
1. Transparency and consumer trust: CONFICERT labels allow companies to communicate clearly, understandably, and directly to consumers what the label represents, building recognition and trust that other labels without this level of transparency cannot provide.
2. Marketing and differentiation: The label serves as a powerful tool to enhance reputation and credibility. By transparently demonstrating commitment to principles, values, and quality practices, companies gain global recognition and a competitive edge over others in their sector.
Does CONFICERT challenge the established certification system?
No. CONFICERT complements it by adding transparency and consumer empowerment.
How does CONFICERT make transparency a reality?
CONFICERT provides real-time consumer access to verified audit data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal—offering greater clarity and immediacy.
2. MEMBERSHIP & BENEFITS
Who can join CONFICERT and what advantages members receive. For more info, check out our members website.
Who can join CONFICERT?
Membership is open to any individual or organization interested in supporting CONFICERT’s objectives, including certification and inspection bodies, laboratories, R&D and training centers, universities, consulting organizations, public entities, foundations, and relevant professionals from the consumer, quality, or production sectors. Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors and approved by a simple majority, with membership available in Platinum, Gold, and Silver categories.
How many members does CONFICERT have and where?
CONFICERT currently includes 11 certification bodies across 6 countries, operating in 30+ regions.
Is CONFICERT only for large companies?
No. CONFICERT Brands are designed to be flexible and accessible, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
How can I become a member and what are the costs?
First you have to submit us the membership application form. Once the minimum requirements for membership are verified and the Board of Directors approves, CONFICERT charges a one-time joining fee and an annual membership fee.
Do certification bodies need accreditation to certify CONFICERT brands?
Yes. The first requirement for the CBs that belong to CONFICERT, or that can be authorized to certify a Brand, is precisely to be accredited under some standard (ISO 17065, ISO 17021…). For more info about how to join us, click here.
3. INTEGRITY & COMPLIANCE
How we protect fairness, transparency, and proper use of correct trademark and logo. For more info, check out our Integrity Surveillance Program.
How does CONFICERT prevent unfair competition among members?
The Integrity Committee monitors service standards and pricing. Reference pricing may be set to maintain fair competition, and decisions are binding.
How is the Integrity Committee supervised?
It includes internal representatives, certification bodies, industry stakeholders, public observers, and invited experts. Processes are fully transparent.
How is integrity and verification managed?
Through the Integrity Surveillance Program, independent audits, and reporting mechanisms. Consumers can access certification data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal.
What should I do if I see misuse of a CONFICERT Brand or unethical behaviour?
Please contact us immediately through the Integrity Complaint Form on our website. All reports are confidential and reviewed promptly.
4. CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Understanding authorization, audits, and correct trademark and logo usage.
Are CONFICERT Brands accredited?
At this initial stage, our Brands are not accredited by Accreditation Bodies (such as ENAC), as they require a preliminary implementation period to demonstrate proper operation and market acceptance.
However, CONFICERT Brands are fully accreditable. Once their performance is consolidated, and whenever the scheme requires it, the process for formal accreditation can begin. From the outset, CONFICERT has considered this possibility and maintains an open, continuous-improvement approach.
Additionally, the integrity of the system, common to all Brands, is managed centrally through the Integrity Surveillance Program. A summarized description of the program is available on the CONFICERT website, and the full document can be requested if desired.
It is also important to highlight that all certification bodies within CONFICERT are accredited (in the case of Spanish bodies, by ENAC) and conduct their activities primarily based on accredited schemes, a system we fully trust and believe in.
Who can certify CONFICERT Brands?
The certification processes for CONFICERT Brands can only be carried out by Certification Bodies (CBs) that meet one of the following conditions:
✔️ Hold an active membership in CONFICERT (platinum, gold, or silver), or
✔️ Are considered collaborators.
In both cases, CBs must demonstrate prior compliance with the requirements established for each Brand (accreditations, staff training, experience, etc.) and successfully complete the authorization process to be able to certify them. It is important to note that members cannot directly certify CONFICERT Brand simply as part of their membership.
The authorization process is defined in the association’s internal procedures, and its compliance and performance are monitored under the Integrity Surveillance Program, ensuring transparency and reliability of the system.
How is Brand usage managed?
Certified operators sign licensing agreements, provide data for the Transparency Portal, follow the CONFICERT Trademark and Logo Use Manual,. Furthermore, use of the trademark is subject to the Integrity Surveillance Program and ongoing monitoring by CONFICERT. For more info about our Integrity Surveillance Program, click here.
5. FOR BUSINESSES & OPERATORS
Information for companies evaluating CONFICERT adoption.
Will distributors or authorities recognize CONFICERT labels?
Yes, we have already started conversations with several associations and companies from different sectors. We believe that our initiative represents an excellent opportunity for both to promote transparency as a way to empower consumers, enhance competitiveness, differentiate companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
In any case, it is important to note that even if distributors or authorities do not require a specific label, as long as the labels comply with the law (as CONFICERT’s do), we are confident that a significant portion of consumers will prefer products or services carrying a CONFICERT Brand. When given the choice between a product certified with a label whose meaning they cannot fully understand and a product whose label provides clear, comprehensible, and transparent information about what it represents and why the product or service carries it, consumers are likely to choose the latter.
Does CONFICERT have public administration support?
At this stage, we have not yet had the opportunity to present the initiative to public administrations. However, we aim to engage with them to explore how CONFICERT can support their objectives. We believe our initiative is an excellent tool for administrations committed to transparency, helping to address existing gaps, empower consumers, improve competitiveness and differentiation for companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
Regarding regulatory alignment, we are fully convinced that the CONFICERT system complies with the new European and national regulations related to consumer empowerment for the ecological transition and environmental claims, including:
1. Directive (EU) 2024/825 – Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (Anti-Greenwashing Directive),
2. Directive (EU) 2023/0085 (COD) – Substantiation and Communication of Explicit Environmental Claims (Green Claims Directive),
3. Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD, 2023) and related sustainability systems.
We have already submitted several inquiries to both the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) and the European Commission, although we have not yet received a response.
NOTE: CONFICERT believes not only that it fully complies with this legislation, but also that it is fully aligned with it and can serve as a valuable tool for its implementation, for reasons including:
(1) Anti-Greenwashing Directive (EU) 2024/825:
- The CONFICERT system is based on a certification scheme that should be included in Annex I of Directive 2005/29/EC.
- The conditions of the CONFICERT certification system are publicly available, and the Brands meet the minimum transparency and credibility requirements, including objective supervision of compliance (through a transparent audit and certification system).
- Oversight is provided by an independent third party whose competence and independence are guaranteed by international standards (e.g., ISO 17065 for certification bodies).
(2) Green Claims Directive (2023/0085):
- Sustainability labels (Brands) meet and exceed the minimum requirements for transparency and credibility—this is a core purpose of CONFICERT.
- Environmental claims and labels are verified and certified by an independent accredited body (the authorized CBs) before they are used in commercial communication, with a certificate of conformity issued when requirements are met, exactly as required by this Directive.
(3) CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive):
- CONFICERT can serve as a practical mechanism to support compliance with this directive.
Finally, even without formal recognition by authorities at this point, as long as CONFICERT Brands comply with current legislation (which they do) and are valued by consumers, companies, and society, they can be used to strengthen trust and transparency in the marketplace.
Still have questions?
Ready to join CONFICERT?
Report an integrity issue
Questions & Answers
TRANSPARENT INFORMATION FOR BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS TO UNDERSTAND CONFICERT.
Here you can find answers to the most common questions about CONFICERT, membership, certification, and transparency. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us.
1. ABOUT CONFICERT BRANDS
Everything you need to know about how our labels work.
What types of brands does CONFICERT promote?
CONFICERT promotes B2C global brands committed to values and principles that provide transparent and verifiable information on certified product or service quality. Applicable to any sector that pursues standards based on transparency and market value.
How is CONFICERT different from other Brands or certifications?
CONFICERT offers full transparency on what each Brand certifies, how it is audited, and what values support it—empowering consumers with verified information.
Can CONFICERT become a greenwashing tool?
No. CONFICERT is designed to prevent greenwashing. Brands promoted by CONFICERT stand out because they provide complete transparency about each seal and the certification process behind it. Any sustainability or related claims are backed by an impartial, third-party certification, and all supporting information is transparent, clear, and always accessible by our Transparency Portal.
Does CONFICERT add complexity to the certification system?
No, just the opposite. CONFICERT simplifies decision-making by providing clear, accessible, verifiable information behind each label in a non-technical language easy understandable for everybody.
Are CONFICERT Brands recognized by institutions like the EU or MAPA?
Not officially yet, but all brands comply with EU and national legislation, sustainability directives, and consumer transparency requirements.
Are CONFICERT Brands limited to the agri-food sector?
No. CONFICERT can create and promote labels (Brands) for any sector. Future labels cover, for instance, energy, water use, gender equality, tourism, cosmetics, construction, among others.
Why would a company with an existing label choose CONFICERT?
Beyond differences in requirements or scope between labels, CONFICERT offers two clear advantages:
1. Transparency and consumer trust: CONFICERT labels allow companies to communicate clearly, understandably, and directly to consumers what the label represents, building recognition and trust that other labels without this level of transparency cannot provide.
2. Marketing and differentiation: The label serves as a powerful tool to enhance reputation and credibility. By transparently demonstrating commitment to principles, values, and quality practices, companies gain global recognition and a competitive edge over others in their sector.
Does CONFICERT challenge the established certification system?
No. CONFICERT complements it by adding transparency and consumer empowerment.
How does CONFICERT make transparency a reality?
CONFICERT provides real-time consumer access to verified audit data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal—offering greater clarity and immediacy.
2. MEMBERSHIP & BENEFITS
Who can join CONFICERT and what advantages members receive. For more info, check out our members website.
Who can join CONFICERT?
Membership is open to any individual or organization interested in supporting CONFICERT’s objectives, including certification and inspection bodies, laboratories, R&D and training centers, universities, consulting organizations, public entities, foundations, and relevant professionals from the consumer, quality, or production sectors. Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors and approved by a simple majority, with membership available in Platinum, Gold, and Silver categories.
How many members does CONFICERT have and where?
CONFICERT currently includes 11 certification bodies across 6 countries, operating in 30+ regions.
Is CONFICERT only for large companies?
No. CONFICERT Brands are designed to be flexible and accessible, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
How can I become a member and what are the costs?
First you have to submit us the membership application form. Once the minimum requirements for membership are verified and the Board of Directors approves, CONFICERT charges a one-time joining fee and an annual membership fee.
Do certification bodies need accreditation to certify CONFICERT brands?
Yes. The first requirement for the CBs that belong to CONFICERT, or that can be authorized to certify a Brand, is precisely to be accredited under some standard (ISO 17065, ISO 17021…). For more info about how to join us, click here.
3. INTEGRITY & COMPLIANCE
How we protect fairness, transparency, and proper use of correct trademark and logo. For more info, check out our Integrity Surveillance Program.
How does CONFICERT prevent unfair competition among members?
The Integrity Committee monitors service standards and pricing. Reference pricing may be set to maintain fair competition, and decisions are binding.
How is the Integrity Committee supervised?
It includes internal representatives, certification bodies, industry stakeholders, public observers, and invited experts. Processes are fully transparent.
How is integrity and verification managed?
Through the Integrity Surveillance Program, independent audits, and reporting mechanisms. Consumers can access certification data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal.
What should I do if I see misuse of a CONFICERT Brand or unethical behaviour?
Please contact us immediately through the Integrity Complaint Form on our website. All reports are confidential and reviewed promptly.
4. CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Understanding authorization, audits, and correct trademark and logo usage.
Are CONFICERT Brands accredited?
At this initial stage, our Brands are not accredited by Accreditation Bodies (such as ENAC), as they require a preliminary implementation period to demonstrate proper operation and market acceptance.
However, CONFICERT Brands are fully accreditable. Once their performance is consolidated, and whenever the scheme requires it, the process for formal accreditation can begin. From the outset, CONFICERT has considered this possibility and maintains an open, continuous-improvement approach.
Additionally, the integrity of the system, common to all Brands, is managed centrally through the Integrity Surveillance Program. A summarized description of the program is available on the CONFICERT website, and the full document can be requested if desired.
It is also important to highlight that all certification bodies within CONFICERT are accredited (in the case of Spanish bodies, by ENAC) and conduct their activities primarily based on accredited schemes, a system we fully trust and believe in.
Who can certify CONFICERT Brands?
The certification processes for CONFICERT Brands can only be carried out by Certification Bodies (CBs) that meet one of the following conditions:
✔️ Hold an active membership in CONFICERT (platinum, gold, or silver), or
✔️ Are considered collaborators.
In both cases, CBs must demonstrate prior compliance with the requirements established for each Brand (accreditations, staff training, experience, etc.) and successfully complete the authorization process to be able to certify them. It is important to note that members cannot directly certify CONFICERT Brand simply as part of their membership.
The authorization process is defined in the association’s internal procedures, and its compliance and performance are monitored under the Integrity Surveillance Program, ensuring transparency and reliability of the system.
How is Brand usage managed?
Certified operators sign licensing agreements, provide data for the Transparency Portal, follow the CONFICERT Trademark and Logo Use Manual,. Furthermore, use of the trademark is subject to the Integrity Surveillance Program and ongoing monitoring by CONFICERT. For more info, visitir our website Integrity Surveillance Program.
5. FOR BUSINESSES & OPERATORS
Information for companies evaluating CONFICERT adoption.
Will distributors or authorities recognize CONFICERT labels?
Yes, we have already started conversations with several associations and companies from different sectors. We believe that our initiative represents an excellent opportunity for both to promote transparency as a way to empower consumers, enhance competitiveness, differentiate companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
In any case, it is important to note that even if distributors or authorities do not require a specific label, as long as the labels comply with the law (as CONFICERT’s do), we are confident that a significant portion of consumers will prefer products or services carrying a CONFICERT Brand. When given the choice between a product certified with a label whose meaning they cannot fully understand and a product whose label provides clear, comprehensible, and transparent information about what it represents and why the product or service carries it, consumers are likely to choose the latter.
Does CONFICERT have public administration support?
At this stage, we have not yet had the opportunity to present the initiative to public administrations. However, we aim to engage with them to explore how CONFICERT can support their objectives. We believe our initiative is an excellent tool for administrations committed to transparency, helping to address existing gaps, empower consumers, improve competitiveness and differentiation for companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
Regarding regulatory alignment, we are fully convinced that the CONFICERT system complies with the new European and national regulations related to consumer empowerment for the ecological transition and environmental claims, including:
1. Directive (EU) 2024/825 – Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (Anti-Greenwashing Directive),
2. Directive (EU) 2023/0085 (COD) – Substantiation and Communication of Explicit Environmental Claims (Green Claims Directive),
3. Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD, 2023) and related sustainability systems.
We have already submitted several inquiries to both the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) and the European Commission, although we have not yet received a response.
NOTE: CONFICERT believes not only that it fully complies with this legislation, but also that it is fully aligned with it and can serve as a valuable tool for its implementation, for reasons including:
(1) Anti-Greenwashing Directive (EU) 2024/825:
- The CONFICERT system is based on a certification scheme that should be included in Annex I of Directive 2005/29/EC.
- The conditions of the CONFICERT certification system are publicly available, and the Brands meet the minimum transparency and credibility requirements, including objective supervision of compliance (through a transparent audit and certification system).
- Oversight is provided by an independent third party whose competence and independence are guaranteed by international standards (e.g., ISO 17065 for certification bodies).
(2) Green Claims Directive (2023/0085):
- Sustainability labels (Brands) meet and exceed the minimum requirements for transparency and credibility—this is a core purpose of CONFICERT.
- Environmental claims and labels are verified and certified by an independent accredited body (the authorized CBs) before they are used in commercial communication, with a certificate of conformity issued when requirements are met, exactly as required by this Directive.
(3) CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive):
- CONFICERT can serve as a practical mechanism to support compliance with this directive.
Finally, even without formal recognition by authorities at this point, as long as CONFICERT Brands comply with current legislation (which they do) and are valued by consumers, companies, and society, they can be used to strengthen trust and transparency in the marketplace.
Still have
questions?
Ready to join
CONFICERT?
Report an
integrity issue
Questions & Answers
TRANSPARENT INFORMATION FOR BUSINESSES AND CONSUMERS TO UNDERSTAND CONFICERT.
Here you can find answers to the most common questions about CONFICERT, membership, certification, and transparency. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us.
1. ABOUT CONFICERT BRANDS
Everything you need to know about how our labels work.
What types of brands does CONFICERT promote?
CONFICERT promotes B2C global brands committed to values and principles that provide transparent and verifiable information on certified product or service quality. Applicable to any sector that pursues standards based on transparency and market value.
How is CONFICERT different from other Brands or certifications?
CONFICERT offers full transparency on what each Brand certifies, how it is audited, and what values support it—empowering consumers with verified information.
Can CONFICERT become a greenwashing tool?
No. CONFICERT is designed to prevent greenwashing. Brands promoted by CONFICERT stand out because they provide complete transparency about each seal and the certification process behind it. Any sustainability or related claims are backed by an impartial, third-party certification, and all supporting information is transparent, clear, and always accessible by our Transparency Portal.
Does CONFICERT add complexity to the certification system?
No, just the opposite. CONFICERT simplifies decision-making by providing clear, accessible, verifiable information behind each label in a non-technical language easy understandable for everybody.
Are CONFICERT Brands recognized by institutions like the EU or MAPA?
Not officially yet, but all brands comply with EU and national legislation, sustainability directives, and consumer transparency requirements.
Are CONFICERT Brands limited to the agri-food sector?
No. CONFICERT can create and promote labels (Brands) for any sector. Future labels cover, for instance, energy, water use, gender equality, tourism, cosmetics, construction, among others.
Why would a company with an existing label choose CONFICERT?
Beyond differences in requirements or scope between labels, CONFICERT offers two clear advantages:
1. Transparency and consumer trust: CONFICERT labels allow companies to communicate clearly, understandably, and directly to consumers what the label represents, building recognition and trust that other labels without this level of transparency cannot provide.
2. Marketing and differentiation: The label serves as a powerful tool to enhance reputation and credibility. By transparently demonstrating commitment to principles, values, and quality practices, companies gain global recognition and a competitive edge over others in their sector.
Does CONFICERT challenge the established certification system?
No. CONFICERT complements it by adding transparency and consumer empowerment.
How does CONFICERT make transparency a reality?
CONFICERT provides real-time consumer access to verified audit data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal—offering greater clarity and immediacy.
2. MEMBERSHIP & BENEFITS
Who can join CONFICERT and what advantages members receive. For more info, check out our members website.
Who can join CONFICERT?
Membership is open to any individual or organization interested in supporting CONFICERT’s objectives, including certification and inspection bodies, laboratories, R&D and training centers, universities, consulting organizations, public entities, foundations, and relevant professionals from the consumer, quality, or production sectors. Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors and approved by a simple majority, with membership available in Platinum, Gold, and Silver categories.
How many members does CONFICERT have and where?
CONFICERT currently includes 11 certification bodies across 6 countries, operating in 30+ regions.
Is CONFICERT only for large companies?
No. CONFICERT Brands are designed to be flexible and accessible, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
How can I become a member and what are the costs?
First you have to submit us the membership application form. Once the minimum requirements for membership are verified and the Board of Directors approves, CONFICERT charges a one-time joining fee and an annual membership fee.
Do certification bodies need accreditation to certify CONFICERT brands?
Yes. The first requirement for the CBs that belong to CONFICERT, or that can be authorized to certify a Brand, is precisely to be accredited under some standard (ISO 17065, ISO 17021…). For more info about how to join us, click here.
3. INTEGRITY & COMPLIANCE
How we protect fairness, transparency, and proper use of correct trademark and logo. For more info, check out our Integrity Surveillance Program.
How does CONFICERT prevent unfair competition among members?
The Integrity Committee monitors service standards and pricing. Reference pricing may be set to maintain fair competition, and decisions are binding.
How is the Integrity Committee supervised?
It includes internal representatives, certification bodies, industry stakeholders, public observers, and invited experts. Processes are fully transparent.
How is integrity and verification managed?
Through the Integrity Surveillance Program, independent audits, and reporting mechanisms. Consumers can access certification data via QR codes and the Transparency Portal.
What should I do if I see misuse of a CONFICERT Brand or unethical behaviour?
Please contact us immediately through the Integrity Complaint Form on our website. All reports are confidential and reviewed promptly.
4. CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Understanding authorization, audits, and correct trademark and logo usage.
Are CONFICERT Brands accredited?
At this initial stage, our Brands are not accredited by Accreditation Bodies (such as ENAC), as they require a preliminary implementation period to demonstrate proper operation and market acceptance.
However, CONFICERT Brands are fully accreditable. Once their performance is consolidated, and whenever the scheme requires it, the process for formal accreditation can begin. From the outset, CONFICERT has considered this possibility and maintains an open, continuous-improvement approach.
Additionally, the integrity of the system, common to all Brands, is managed centrally through the Integrity Surveillance Program. A summarized description of the program is available on the CONFICERT website, and the full document can be requested if desired.
It is also important to highlight that all certification bodies within CONFICERT are accredited (in the case of Spanish bodies, by ENAC) and conduct their activities primarily based on accredited schemes, a system we fully trust and believe in.
Who can certify CONFICERT Brands?
The certification processes for CONFICERT Brands can only be carried out by Certification Bodies (CBs) that meet one of the following conditions:
✔️ Hold an active membership in CONFICERT (platinum, gold, or silver), or
✔️ Are considered collaborators.
In both cases, CBs must demonstrate prior compliance with the requirements established for each Brand (accreditations, staff training, experience, etc.) and successfully complete the authorization process to be able to certify them. It is important to note that members cannot directly certify CONFICERT Brand simply as part of their membership.
The authorization process is defined in the association’s internal procedures, and its compliance and performance are monitored under the Integrity Surveillance Program, ensuring transparency and reliability of the system.
How is Brand usage managed?
Certified operators sign licensing agreements, provide data for the Transparency Portal, follow the CONFICERT Trademark and Logo Use Manual,. Furthermore, use of the trademark is subject to the Integrity Surveillance Program and ongoing monitoring by CONFICERT. For more info, visitir our website Integrity Surveillance Program.
5. FOR BUSINESSES & OPERATORS
Information for companies evaluating CONFICERT adoption.
Will distributors or authorities recognize CONFICERT labels?
Yes, we have already started conversations with several associations and companies from different sectors. We believe that our initiative represents an excellent opportunity for both to promote transparency as a way to empower consumers, enhance competitiveness, differentiate companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
In any case, it is important to note that even if distributors or authorities do not require a specific label, as long as the labels comply with the law (as CONFICERT’s do), we are confident that a significant portion of consumers will prefer products or services carrying a CONFICERT Brand. When given the choice between a product certified with a label whose meaning they cannot fully understand and a product whose label provides clear, comprehensible, and transparent information about what it represents and why the product or service carries it, consumers are likely to choose the latter.
Does CONFICERT have public administration support?
At this stage, we have not yet had the opportunity to present the initiative to public administrations. However, we aim to engage with them to explore how CONFICERT can support their objectives. We believe our initiative is an excellent tool for administrations committed to transparency, helping to address existing gaps, empower consumers, improve competitiveness and differentiation for companies, and effectively communicate their messages to society.
Regarding regulatory alignment, we are fully convinced that the CONFICERT system complies with the new European and national regulations related to consumer empowerment for the ecological transition and environmental claims, including:
1. Directive (EU) 2024/825 – Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (Anti-Greenwashing Directive),
2. Directive (EU) 2023/0085 (COD) – Substantiation and Communication of Explicit Environmental Claims (Green Claims Directive),
3. Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD, 2023) and related sustainability systems.
We have already submitted several inquiries to both the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) and the European Commission, although we have not yet received a response.
NOTE: CONFICERT believes not only that it fully complies with this legislation, but also that it is fully aligned with it and can serve as a valuable tool for its implementation, for reasons including:
(1) Anti-Greenwashing Directive (EU) 2024/825:
- The CONFICERT system is based on a certification scheme that should be included in Annex I of Directive 2005/29/EC.
- The conditions of the CONFICERT certification system are publicly available, and the Brands meet the minimum transparency and credibility requirements, including objective supervision of compliance (through a transparent audit and certification system).
- Oversight is provided by an independent third party whose competence and independence are guaranteed by international standards (e.g., ISO 17065 for certification bodies).
(2) Green Claims Directive (2023/0085):
- Sustainability labels (Brands) meet and exceed the minimum requirements for transparency and credibility—this is a core purpose of CONFICERT.
- Environmental claims and labels are verified and certified by an independent accredited body (the authorized CBs) before they are used in commercial communication, with a certificate of conformity issued when requirements are met, exactly as required by this Directive.
(3) CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive):
- CONFICERT can serve as a practical mechanism to support compliance with this directive.
Finally, even without formal recognition by authorities at this point, as long as CONFICERT Brands comply with current legislation (which they do) and are valued by consumers, companies, and society, they can be used to strengthen trust and transparency in the marketplace.
Still have questions?
Ready to join CONFICERT?
Report an integrity issue