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Sustainability framework

RSB’s sustainability framework – underpinned by 12 key principles and their underlying criteria – is the world’s most rigorous standard for sustainable production in the biocircular economy.

Application of our sustainability framework demonstrates a commitment to just and sustainable development, and the realisation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Read our sustainability framework

12 Principles & Criteria

RSB’s 12 Principles & Criteria (P&C) are the core of our globally recognised sustainability framework – describing the best of social, legal, environmental and management practice for sustainable production in the biocircular economy.

Each principle is supported by criteria, requirements and indicators. The criteria list the necessary conditions to meet each principle, and who must comply with them. Requirements and indicators give details to support users with their implementation.

Explore the 12 Principles & Criteria
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Framework development

RSB’s decision-making structure – based on consensus among our membership community – ensures that our sustainability framework is the most credible approach to addressing key social, environmental and management issues in a comprehensive way.

As an ISEAL Code Compliant Member, we have a formal process for how our sustainability framework is developed, adapted and reviewed. Revisions require a formal consultation, in line with the ISEAL Codes of Good Practice, and approval by RSB members.

Learn more about our development processes

Standards and procedures

RSB’s library contains all documents relating our sustainability framework, and our standards and procedures.

These documents demonstrate how our Principles & Criteria work in practice – describing how to responsibly produce biomass, fuel and material products from bio-based and recycled carbon, as well as renewable energy.

Explore our standards and procedures

Global recognition

RSB’s sustainability framework has been recognised by NGOs, companies, regulators and others around the world as a uniquely robust and practical approach to advancing the just and sustainable transition to a bio-based and circular economy.

Explore third-party recognitions
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