Proudly certified for a few weeks (and it's not its first certification!) Agathe has joined the movement of companies with positive impact! But what is the basis for obtaining B Corp certification?
Jonathan Normand: To obtain B Corp certification, companies must demonstrate high social and environmental performance by achieving a score of 80 or more in the B Impact Assessment. Another fundamental step is that future B Corps must commit legally by amending their statutes to take into account the interests of all their stakeholders in their decisions. Finally, they must be transparent by making information about their performance public. I would also add one last important point: every 3 years, certified B Corps must undergo a recertification process. This process ensures that the company continues its sustainability efforts and is committed to improving its impact on its stakeholders.
Was founding B Lab Switzerland and developing business certification in Switzerland easy?
Jonathan Normand: I participated in the creation of B Lab Europe in 2013, and at that time, the enthusiasm for sustainability in the business world was not what it is today. So it wasn't always easy, and we encountered many skeptics. Then B Lab Switzerland was founded in 2017. We have grown rapidly and are progressing on our mission to transform the economic system. I am very proud of what we have managed to achieve in 5 years with the members of our B Corp community and Swiss Triple Impact.
But by the way, have you already tasted our certified biscuits?
Jonathan Normand: Yes, of course! We often have them in our offices, and they are delicious!
And which one do you prefer then?
Jonathan Normand: It's hard to choose, but I would say the Swiss organic Gruyère secrets. I particularly appreciate when the taste reflects the enhancement of local ingredients, and even if that's the case for all your products, with this one you can really feel the Swiss terroir!
Do you have a dream for the future of B Corp and the impact of Swiss companies?
Jonathan Normand: There are still challenges to overcome to create an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic fabric. It is evident that a massive mobilization of companies in Switzerland and around the world is needed. The private sector must set ambitious goals for its own contributions to sustainable development and lead profound transformations. But there also needs to be impetus from governments and laws that regulate these new practices. For example, at the Swiss level, we have engaged in collaboration with political decision-makers to implement legal structures such as "Benefit Corporation" that support systemic changes. I dream of common action and, above all, public incentives and adapted regulations to support the transformation of the private sector and encourage other companies to act!
Thank you, Jonathan, for your answers! We completely agree with you on this point and wish long life to B Corp and to our planet!
