Frequently Asked Questions
For companies not affected by the European Union Directive on Consumer Empowerment for the Green Transition (ECGT).
Why are the new B Lab™ Standards important to me even if ECGT doesn't affect me?
Because the B Lab V2 Standards are the new language of impact. Getting certified under these standards allows you to safeguard your reputation, access capital, and build a more resilient company that’s attractive to young talent.
If I have to recertify in 2027 or 2028, can I ignore these changes for now?
Even if you aren't facing the July 2026 deadline, the new B Lab V2 Standards are already the official roadmap. We recommend that you start familiarizing yourself with the certification process and the requirements of the 7 Impact Topics today. This will allow you to address operational gaps (such as carbon footprint measurement or the pay gap) at your own pace, ensuring that the change isn't disruptive when your official date arrives.
What prompted the update to the B Lab Standards?
To truly demonstrate the leadership role that B™ Corporations play in the world, we must raise the bar for our certification standards. Furthermore, to remain competitive and innovative, companies need to evolve in step with market demands.
That's why evolving standards is in our DNA: they've been updated six times since the B Movement was founded 20 years ago.
In December 2020, we announced this latest revision in response to the profound changes in the global business landscape. The result is a set of standards that redefine what it means to be a B Corporation, with requirements that are clearer than ever to ensure that the certification addresses the social and environmental challenges of today and the future.
What was the process for updating the standards like?
The new standards are the result of four years of collective work. We held two public consultations in which more than 3,000 partners from 67 countries participated, and we received 26,000 comments.
This participatory process ensures that the standards are tailored to the realities and contexts of companies around the world, reflecting our commitment to building the movement collectively.
How is continuous improvement reflected in the new standards?
Continuous improvement remains the cornerstone of our community. We do not seek perfection, but progress.
Following initial certification, each organization must demonstrate improvements year after year, meeting new requirements at the three- and five-year marks. From that point on, the commitment is to maintain the standard and continue driving positive impact on its journey as a B Corporation.