
Bonsucro
Bonsucro
Certify sustainable sugarcane production and sourcing with a globally recognized standard
Key Strengths
- Leading global sustainability standard specifically for sugarcane
- Third-party verified against ISO 17011 and ISO/IEC Guide 65 for high credibility
- Covers full supply chain via Production Standard and Chain of Custody Standard
- Measurable environmental outcomes: 13% GHG reduction and 31% water reduction after 5 years
- Recognized under EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED) for biofuels compliance
- Multi-stakeholder governance including producers, traders, NGOs, and brands
- Available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese for global accessibility
Ideal For
Bonsucro is best suited for sugarcane producers, mills, traders, and brands seeking credible third-party verification of sustainable sugarcane sourcing. It is particularly valuable for companies operating in or sourcing from major sugarcane-producing regions who need to meet EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED) requirements or respond to corporate sustainability commitments.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Product Categories
Overview
Bonsucro is the leading global sustainability certification program for sugarcane, designed for producers, mills, traders, and brands that want credible, third-party verified proof of responsible sugarcane sourcing and production. The program operates through two complementary standards: a Production Standard covering farm and mill-level practices, and a Chain of Custody Standard that tracks certified material through the supply chain. Certification is verified by accredited third-party auditors against ISO 17011 and ISO/IEC Guide 65, giving it strong international credibility across more than 15 countries where sugarcane is produced or traded.
The standard addresses environmental responsibility, social development, economic viability, and good industry practices. Certified operations have demonstrated measurable outcomes including a 13% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 31% reduction in water use over five years. Bonsucro certification is also formally recognized under the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED), making it a practical compliance pathway for companies supplying sugarcane-derived biofuels into European markets.
Bonsucro is best suited for companies that need to meet regulatory requirements, fulfill corporate sustainability commitments, or access buyers who require verified sustainable sourcing. Members join a network of 330+ organizations spanning producers, traders, NGOs, and global brands, and gain access to training resources, tools like the ClimateCane Tracker for science-based target setting, and online courses available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Conformity with Bonsucro's standard is verified by an independent organization (third party) following ISO 17011 Accreditation, ISO / IEC Guide 65 Product Certification
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Certification is conducted by independent, accredited third-party certification bodies following ISO 17011 accreditation and ISO/IEC Guide 65 product certification requirements. Auditors conduct on-site inspections of sugarcane farms, mills, or supply chain operators, reviewing operational records, environmental and social performance data, and management systems against the relevant Bonsucro Standard (Production Standard v5.2, Chain of Custody Standard, or EU RED Standard). The audit process includes document review, field inspections, and worker interviews. Certification bodies are approved by Bonsucro and listed on its website.
Renewal & Compliance
Certified organizations must undergo periodic re-audits by accredited third-party certification bodies to maintain their Bonsucro certification. Certificates are subject to surveillance audits and renewal cycles as defined by the Bonsucro Certification and Standard Protocol. Organizations must continue to demonstrate conformance with the relevant Bonsucro Standard (Production Standard, Chain of Custody, or EU RED Standard) at each audit cycle.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
Organizations outside the sugarcane supply chain will find no relevance here, as Bonsucro is exclusively focused on sugarcane and its derivatives. Companies seeking a broader agricultural or bioenergy sustainability standard may prefer alternatives like RSPO (for palm oil) or ISCC (which covers multiple feedstocks).
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English, Spanish, Portuguese
2005
Available
How to Use This Label
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
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Sources & Citations
Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
Program WebsiteBonsucroLast verified Mar 11, 2026