What is the Green Accord?

We are all under increasing pressure to comply with an ever growing number of regulations to maintain the highest standards of sustainability, but few of us can find a truly effective method that delivers real results in which to deliver these standards.

The Green Accord scheme provides that solution and is a proven accreditation that drives sustainability, addressing the expanding environmental responsibilities facing those who procure.

It demonstrates best practice and promotes the reduction of environmental impact through the whole supply chain by demanding practical actions and the instigation of alternative working practices. It's about deeds not words.

It is inclusive, benefiting both the client and supplier, as well as non-customers in terms of community benefit from environmental benefit realised.

How does the Green Accord work?

The Green Accord uniquely provides a tiered system of grading that enables companies of all sizes to obtain recognition applicable to their level of achievement.

Accreditation starts at Select level (red apple status) and increases through Superior level (yellow apple status) to the highest Premier level (green apple status).

Ensuring your suppliers are Green Accord accredited will reduce the environmental impact of your supply chain's operations for the long-term good of the environment and can generate long-term efficiency savings.

What are the benefits of Green Accord Accreditation?

The Green Accord is not a green tax. Accreditation brings real savings for a nominal fee:

£180 + vat    over 5 employees
£90 + vat      5 or less employees

An audit of the supplier self assessment submitted to provide for accreditation is valid for 2 years.

A typical saving to date:

D R Jones, Building Contractor
First year savings of £10,000 after applying Green Accord requirements, and advice from Global Action Plan (GAP). The savings made equate to 55 times that of the bi-annual fee paid.

Source: GAP (2009)

• A unique, robust accreditation based on a simple self assessment
• Its inclusive and supported
• Drives real green working practices
• Reduces impact of actions on the environment
• The only accreditation scheme that treats climate change and not just measure it
• FREE to clients with only a nominal fee to the supplier

Who can use the scheme?

The scheme can be utilised by all types of companies, organisations and service providers including local authorities, consultants, private companies, sole traders and other public bodies.

Global Action Plan

The Green Accord operates in partnership with Global Action Plan (GAP), an independent environmental charity that provides a range of services to businesses, including subsidised help and advice.

If you are unsure of the capabilities of your supply chain GAP can assist you and your suppliers through the accreditation process as outlined below. Further training is offered to suppliers to improve sustainability and measure the results gained.

How does my supply chain get Green Accord accreditation?

You (supplier) or your suppliers (client) apply directly to Green Accord by completing the free to try Self-Assessment tool (assessment requires payment).

Support and training

Online guidance is incorporated in the online self assessment and provides specific industry wide web based information for each requirement.

Practical training and advice is provided by our partners Envirowise and Global Action Plan, including support to obtain an EMS such as BS8555 or ISO14001.