International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC): Advancing Global Sustainability Standards
- Fundação RESET
- Mar 13
- 3 min read
The International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) is a globally recognized sustainability certification system that ensures the traceability and sustainability of various feedstocks and products across diverse markets. Established to promote environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable production, ISCC covers all sustainable feedstocks, including agricultural and forestry biomass, biogenic wastes and residues, circular materials, and renewables.
Key Findings
ISCC offers multiple certification schemes tailored to specific market needs:
• ISCC EU: Recognized by the European Commission, this scheme demonstrates compliance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids as outlined in the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II).
• ISCC PLUS: A voluntary certification system applicable to sectors such as food, feed, and bio-based products, addressing sustainability in non-regulated markets.
• ISCC CORSIA: Aligned with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), this certification supports the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
ISCC certification is grounded in six core principles that ensure sustainable practices:
• Protection of High Biodiversity and High Carbon Stock Areas: Safeguarding ecosystems with significant biodiversity and carbon storage value.
• Environmentally Responsible Production: Implementing practices that protect soil, water, and air quality.
• Safe Working Conditions: Ensuring health and safety standards for all workers.
• Respect for Human, Labor, and Land Rights: Upholding ethical standards and community relations.
• Compliance with Laws and International Treaties: Adhering to legal frameworks and agreements.
• Good Management Practices and Continuous Improvement: Promoting operational excellence and ongoing enhancement.
With over 13,000 valid certificates issued across more than 130 countries, ISCC has established itself as one of the world’s largest certification systems. This extensive reach facilitates the development of sustainable and deforestation-free supply chains, contributing significantly to global sustainability goals.
The ISCC plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices across various industries worldwide. By providing comprehensive certification schemes, enforcing stringent sustainability principles, and maintaining a broad global presence, ISCC ensures that supply chains are environmentally sound, socially responsible, and economically viable. Its commitment to continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement positions ISCC as a leader in advancing global sustainability standards.
JFS-RESET’s commitment to sustainable agriculture in Mozambique is reinforced through its certification with the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC). This globally recognized certification ensures that JFS-RESET adheres to strict sustainability standards in agricultural production, supply chain management, and environmental conservation. By complying with ISCC principles, JFS-RESET demonstrates its dedication to responsible land use, protection of biodiversity, and carbon footprint reduction. The certification particularly benefits smallholder cotton farmers by promoting regenerative farming practices, efficient resource use, and ethical labor conditions, aligning Mozambique’s agricultural sector with international sustainability benchmarks.
Through the ISCC framework, JFS-RESET is strengthening the resilience of Mozambique’s agricultural supply chains while opening opportunities for global market access. The certification guarantees that agricultural products meet high environmental and social responsibility standards, enhancing their competitiveness in sustainable commodity markets. Additionally, it provides transparency in production processes, reinforcing traceability and ethical sourcing. By integrating ISCC standards, JFS-RESET contributes to Mozambique’s climate adaptation strategies, ensuring that agricultural activities support soil regeneration, carbon sequestration, and sustainable livelihoods for rural communities.
The Bibliography source:
RESET Foundation is committed with the The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The ISCC certification is linked to several SDGs:
The SDG'sG's, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
