Ethical BioTrade
Issuing Organization:
Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT)
Label purpose:
The Ethical BioTrade certification is dedicated to the fair and sustainable gathering of ingredients and resources from natural biodiversity. It aims to promote the conservation of biodiversity, respect for traditional knowledge, and fair distribution of benefits all along the supply chain. The certification ensures that products and their ingredients are sourced in accordance with ethical sourcing principles that support both people and biodiversity.

Certification Criteria:

To achieve Ethical BioTrade certification, companies must adhere to the UEBT Standards, which encompass seven principles: conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of biodiversity, fair and equitable sharing of benefits, socio-economic sustainability, legal compliance, respect for the rights of actors involved in BioTrade activities, and clarity about land tenure, use, and access to natural resources and knowledge.

Geographical Coverage:

To achieve Ethical BioTrade certification, companies must adhere to the UEBT Standards, which encompass seven principles: conservation of biodiversity, sustainable use of biodiversity, fair and equitable sharing of benefits, socio-economic sustainability, legal compliance, respect for the rights of actors involved in BioTrade activities, and clarity about land tenure, use, and access to natural resources and knowledge.

Target Industries/Segments:

The certification is particularly relevant for industries relying on natural ingredients and resources, such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and beverages, among others.

Certification Process:

Companies seeking Ethical BioTrade certification undergo a rigorous assessment process to ensure compliance with the UEBT Standards. This includes self-assessments, documentation reviews, and on-site audits conducted by independent third-party auditors to verify practices across the supply chain.

Certificate Validity:

Certification requires continuous compliance with the UEBT Standards, with regular monitoring and periodic reassessment to ensure ongoing adherence to ethical sourcing practices. Companies are expected to demonstrate continuous improvement in their sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.

Benefits for Consumers/Producers:

For consumers, the Ethical BioTrade certification offers assurance that products are sourced responsibly, supporting biodiversity and fair trade practices. For producers, the certification enhances brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to ethical, environmental, and social principles, potentially opening up new market opportunities and strengthening relationships with consumers and suppliers.

Sustainability Impact:

The Ethical BioTrade certification contributes to sustainable development by promoting practices that conserve biodiversity, ensure sustainable use of natural resources, and share the benefits of BioTrade fairly among all stakeholders. It encourages the protection of ecosystems and supports the livelihoods of local communities involved in the sourcing of natural ingredients.