Carbon Neutral Certified
SCS Global Services
Ensures carbon footprint reduction and offsets.
Key Strengths
- Over 20 years of credibility and market recognition in carbon neutral certification
- Rigorous lifecycle assessment (LCA) methodology covering full value chain emissions
- Backed by The CarbonNeutral Protocol — a globally recognized standard
- Third-party independent verification ensures credibility of claims
- Applicable to products, businesses, and events — broad scope
- Recognized by major global brands including Microsoft
Ideal For
Best suited for consumer brands, manufacturers, and retailers seeking credible, third-party verified carbon neutral claims for their products or corporate operations. Ideal for companies with established sustainability programs looking to communicate measurable climate action to consumers and business partners, particularly in sectors like consumer electronics, food & beverage, and retail.
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Overview
Carbon Neutral Certified by SCS Global Services is a rigorous standard that ensures a product's carbon emissions have been measured, reduced, and any remaining emissions have been offset. This certification requires companies to accurately calculate their carbon footprint, reduce emissions where possible, and invest in verified carbon offset projects to neutralize any remaining emissions. Products bearing this certification offer consumers confidence that the brand is committed to addressing climate change through measurable and accountable means, making it a trusted standard for carbon-conscious consumers.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must conduct a full lifecycle assessment (LCA) of greenhouse gas emissions covering raw materials, manufacturing, distribution, product use, and end-of-life disposal. This LCA must be performed by or verified by an independent third-party expert in emissions analysis. Companies must also document emission reduction measures taken and provide evidence of verified carbon offset purchases (carbon credits) to neutralize remaining emissions. All data and methodology must align with The CarbonNeutral Protocol.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no traditional exam. Certification is awarded following a structured review process: (1) the applicant defines the scope of emissions to be covered; (2) an independent third-party organization conducts a lifecycle assessment (LCA) measuring all relevant greenhouse gas emissions; (3) a reduction plan and verified carbon offset purchases are reviewed for sufficiency; (4) SCS Global Services or an authorized verifier audits the documentation and methodology for compliance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol before issuing certification.
Renewal & Compliance
Certified entities must renew their certification periodically by updating their emissions inventory, demonstrating continued reduction efforts, and purchasing sufficient verified carbon credits to offset remaining emissions. Renewal requires ongoing compliance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol, which is updated periodically (e.g., the 2025 Protocol update). Specific renewal intervals and fees are determined on a program-by-program basis in consultation with Climate Impact Partners/SCS Global Services.
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Consider Alternatives If...
Companies at the very beginning of their sustainability journey with no emissions measurement infrastructure may find the LCA and documentation requirements burdensome. Organizations seeking a simpler, self-attested carbon label rather than a rigorous third-party verified standard should consider lighter-weight alternatives.
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Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
SCS Global ServicesLast verified Mar 6, 2026