Key governance and sustainability indicators for certification systems: Bridging certification and policy frameworks in the bioeconomy

Abstract

The European bioeconomy offers a sustainable development model, but its successful implementation requires robust sustainability measures. Ensuring sustainability in bio-based value chains requires clearly defined operational characteristics and indicators that comprehensively address key sustainability and circularity aspects. These indicators must align with the European Union (EU) sustainability framework, policies and directives. This study analyzed existing certification schemes and labels (CSLs), benchmarking monitoring systems, and EU policies to identify key sustainability indicators. A grey literature review further supplemented this analysis. Additionally, an alignment study was conducted to assess how EU policies guide the transition towards a bioeconomy. The research identified the key indicators that CSLs should adopt to effectively support the EU sustainability policy framework. A total of 142 sustainability indicators were proposed across environmental (7 areas), social (5), and economic/circularity (4) pillars, along with 60 operational indicators in governance (4 principles), assurance (5), traceability (4), and standard setting (3). The analysis revealed gaps in CSLs and policies, particularly in the economic and circularity pillars, while environmental and social indicators showed better coverage but still need improvements in areas such as land use, air quality, water depletion and consumer feedback. These findings provide valuable insights for certification bodies, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, offering guidance towards the harmonization of CSLs and their alignment with the European bioeconomy policy framework.