Very good choice

Cred­ib­il­ity

En­vir­on­ment

So­cio-E­co­nom­ic

  • Aim/Focus
  • Standard organisation
  • Good to know
NCP (Nature Care Product Standard) provides a simple environmental label for everyday items. The label is designed for all non-food products made from renewable raw materials, such as detergents and cleaning agents, hygiene products, care products for objects, toys, candles or fertilizers, which consist of natural ingredients and do not unnecessarily pollute the environment. This certification closes the regulatory gap in the ecological non-food sector and thus defines necessary standards for genuine sustainable natural products for the first time.
GfaW is a standard provider and developer of certification systems for sustainable business management and environmentally compatible products.
NCP-certified products meet high quality standards due to thorough product testing: for example, that they are made from natural source materials, preferably in organic quality. With the label you can promote your natural products and offer consumers the possibility to recognize and choose a sustainable product.

Cred­ib­il­ity 71%

  • Availability of Scheme Structure
  • Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
  • Availability of Standard
  • Public Consultation of Standard
  • Standard Review
  • Consistent interpretation of the standard
  • Procedure on Remediation
  • CAB Complaints Mechanism
  • Defined Duration of Certificate / License
  • Scheme Legal Status
  • Level of Conformity Assessment
  • Claims Policy
  • Sources of Finance
  • Standard-Setting Process
  • Stakeholder feedback
  • Assessment Methodology
  • Accredited/Approved CABs
  • Clarity of claims
  • Scheme Management
    8/21
    • Governance
      8/13
      • Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure available?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • No (0 points)
      • Is the scheme owner a legal entity, or an organization that is a partnership of legal entities, or a government or inter-governmental agency?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)

        Source:

        Company with limited liability GfaW owns the CSE, NCP, NCS and NATURE THANX standards. GfaW develops the criteria for the standards, the procedure and the design of the label. The intention and the basis for decision-making is the consensus between the standard users and the experts. https://gfaw.eu/ueber-uns/

      • Is there a mechanism by which the top decision-making body members are accountable to all stakeholders?
        Answer: Yes available publicly
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes available publicly (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
      • Do the voting procedures of the top decision-making body ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests, where no single interest predominates?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
        Answer: Yes (on request)
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • No (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner have an internal quality management system available?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • No (0 points)
      • Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
    • Impact
      0/5
      • Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Supporting Strategies
      0/3
      • Does the scheme provide access to technical assistance for compliance with the standard?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme provide access to technical assistance beyond compliance with the standard?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme provide access to finance for enterprises seeking certification?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
  • Standard-Setting
    14/15
    • Is the standard made available free of charge?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)
    • Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)

      Source:

      NCP (Nature Care Product Standard) offers simple environmental labeling for everyday items. The seal is designed for all non-food products made from renewable raw materials, such as detergents and cleaning agents, hygiene articles, care products for objects, toys, candles or fertilizers that consist of natural ingredients and do not unnecessarily pollute the environment. This certification closes the regulatory gap in the ecological non-food area and thus defines the necessary standards for real sustainable natural products for the first time. Thanks to thorough product testing, NCP-certified products meet the highest quality standards: for example, that they are made from natural materials, preferably organic. With the seal you can advertise your natural products and give consumers the opportunity to recognize a sustainable product and to choose it. https://gfaw.eu/ncp/

    • Are the standard-setting procedures or a public summary of how stakeholders can engage made available?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)

      Source:

      How the GfaW works https://gfaw.eu/ueber-uns/#arbeitsweise

    • Which stakeholders can participate in the standard-setting process?
      Answer: All stakeholders
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Members only (1 point)
      • Invitation only (1 point)
      • All stakeholders (2 points)
    • Are stakeholders who are directly affected by the standard provided opportunities to participate in standard setting?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability during the development process?
      Answer: Not Applicable
      Possible answers
      • Yes (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
      • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Does the scheme owner provide information on how the input received from consultations has been included in the final version of the standard?
      Answer: Yes publicly
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)

      Source:

      Partners, network and working groups https://gfaw.eu/ueber-uns/#arbeitsweise

    • Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
      Answer: No
      Score: 0/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
      Answer: yes
      Score: 1/1
      Possible answers
      • No (0 points)
      • yes (1 point)
    • Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
    • Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
      Answer: Not Applicable
      Possible answers
      • Yes (1 point)
      • No (0 points)
      • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Does the scheme owner have a complaints mechanism for the standard-setting process?
      Answer: Yes, publicly
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Yes (on request) (1 point)
      • Yes, publicly (2 points)
      • No (0 points)

      Source:

      https://gfaw.eu/en/ueber-uns/ GfaW also assures a complaint management concerning the certifications which is a specification of the ISO 17065 for certification bodies. Complaints reaching us directly are processed personally by the management and are incorporated into our process according to the principle of continuous improvement.

  • Assurance
    51/67
    • Assurance System
      12/17
      • Is there a documented assessment methodology for CABs to assess compliance with the standard?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner require CABs to have an assessment fee schedule?
        Answer: Yes publicly avilable
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly avilable (2 points)

        Source:

        Costs and Procedure of the Certification https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

      • Does the scheme owner require CABs to have a documented complaints mechanism in place for compliance decisions?
        Answer: Yes available on request
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner make, or require CABs to make, summary certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
        Answer: No (no reports)
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (no reports) (0 points)
        • Confidential (1 point)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner maintain or require CABs to maintain a publicly accessible list of certified or verified enterprises, or a list of verified products/product groups, or a list of members (in case of membership-based initiatives)?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)

        Source:

        Companies that use NCP: https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

      • Does the scheme owner maintain a list of all accredited/approved CABs?
        Answer: Yes (publicly)
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes (publicly) (2 points)

        Source:

        EcoControl https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

      • Does the scheme owner review their assurance system on a periodic basis?
        Answer: Annual
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Annual (1 point)
        • Every 3 years (1 point)
        • Every 5 years (1 point)
        • Ad hoc (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner allow partial certification by an enterprise, with requirements to increase the percentage of certified produce over time?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for CABs that are assessing chain of custody?
        Answer: Not Applicable
        Possible answers
        • yes publicly available (2 points)
        • yes available on request (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
    • Conformity Assessment
      20/27
      • Conformity Assessment Process
        3/3
        • What is the most independent type of conformity assessment required by the scheme?
          Answer: 3rd party
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • 1st party (0 points)
          • 2nd party (0 points)
          • 3rd party (1 point)
          • (0 points)
          • (0 points)

          Source:

          Currently approved certification body in product certifications: EcoControl https://gfaw.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/NCP-Guideline-newcomer.1.7.pdf

        • Does the scheme owner define guidelines for decision-making to ensure that CABs use consistent procedures for determining compliance of clients with the standard?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require CABs to have a procedure in place for how clients are required to address non-conformities, including when a certificate or license is suspended or revoked?
          Answer: yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • yes (1 point)

          Source:

          If your product deviates from the NCP standard, you will be granted a certain amount of time to correct it. This can be 4 to 12 months, depending on the severity of the deviation. If the deviations are not corrected during this time, there will be no more conformity with the NCP, the certificate becomes invalid and the products cannot carry the label anymore. The NCP approved certification bodies operate in accordance with ISO 17065 and have many years of experience in certifying ethically oriented standards in the industry. https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

      • Sustainability Audits
        8/11
        • Does the scheme owner require CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020 or equivalent?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not Applicable (0 points)
        • At least how often do clients undergo a full audit process?
          Answer: 1-2 years
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • 1 year or less (2 points)
          • 1-2 years (2 points)
          • 2-3 years (2 points)
          • 4-5 years (1 point)
          • 5 years or more (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is the frequency of an audit based in part on a risk assessment of the client?
          Answer: No
          Score: 0/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • What type of activities are CABs required to undertake during a full audit?
          Answer: Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review)
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • Document review (off-site) only (1 point)
          • Document review on-site (1 point)
          • Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review) (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner allow or require CABs to do unscheduled audits?
          Answer: Allowed
          Score: 1/2
          Possible answers
          • Allowed (1 point)
          • Required (2 points)
          • Not allowed (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          https://gfaw.eu/en/ueber-uns/ Approach part of the ISO 17065 accreditation of the certification body

        • Are auditors required to solicit external stakeholder input during the audit process?
          Answer: No
          Score: 0/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require CABs to follow a consistent report format?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          The auditing control body completes an evaluation report per audit, a copy of which is sent to EcoControl GmbH for the certification decision. If the report proves that the minimum requirements are being met and that the measures to reach the sustainability goals are being implemented, the company receives a certificate and is entitled to use the label. https://gfaw.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/enCSE_6.4.8-2021.pdf

        • Are the people making the compliance decision different from those engaged in the audit process?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme allow for group certification or verification?
          Answer: Not Applicable
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Group Certification
        1/1
        • Is the group required to have an internal management system?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a requirement that at least all group sites are visited during the period of validity of the certificate?
          Answer: Not Applicable
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Is there a sample size formula to determine the number of group members that is externally verified?
          Answer: Not Applicable
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Yes based on risk assessment (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Do the requirements on group certification/verification define the conditions under which a group member shall be suspended or removed from a group?
          Answer: Not Applicable
          Possible answers
          • Member suspended from certification (1 point)
          • Member removed from a group (0 points)
          • Group suspension (0 points)
          • No repercussion (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Chain of Custody
        5/6
        • Does the scheme owner require CoC CABs to be compliant with ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17021, or ISO/IEC 17065 or equivalent?
          Answer: No
          Score: 0/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • What is the most independent type of CoC conformity assessment required by the scheme?
          Answer: 3rd party
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • 1st party (1 point)
          • 2nd party (1 point)
          • 3rd party (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          https://gfaw.eu/en/ueber-uns/ The audit process for a product certification equals every year and involves checking the qualities of the raw materials that are used during production. This includes the ingredients for the product and the packaging. Based on random samples, the qualities can be checked by means of batch traceability.

        • What type of activities are CoC CABs required to undertake during a full CoC assessment?
          Answer: Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review)
          Score: 2/2
          Possible answers
          • Document review (off-site) only (1 point)
          • Document review on-site (1 point)
          • Field visit (incl. office visit & doc. review) (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          https://gfaw.eu/en/ueber-uns/ + internal evaluation reports shared ( confidential)

        • Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          https://gfaw.eu/en/ueber-uns/ + internal evaluation reports shared ( confidential)

      • Laboratory Testing
        3/6
        • In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
          Answer: No
          Score: 0/2
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (on request) (1 point)
          • Yes publicly (2 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)
        • Does the scheme owner require laboratories to be accredited according to recognized laboratory accreditation standards?
          Answer: Yes to other recognized standards
          Score: 1/2
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes to ISO 17025 (2 points)
          • Yes to other recognized standards (1 point)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          Independently tested https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

        • Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the compliance monitoring?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • No (0 points)
          • Yes (1 point)
          • Not applicable (1 point)
        • Is there a procedure to deal with non-compliant products manufactured by a client / licensee?
          Answer: Yes
          Score: 1/1
          Possible answers
          • Yes (1 point)
          • No (0 points)
          • Not applicable (0 points)

          Source:

          If your product deviates from the NCP standard, you will be granted a certain amount of time to correct it. This can be 4 to 12 months, depending on the severity of the deviation. If the deviations are not corrected during this time, there will be no more conformity with the NCP, the certificate becomes invalid and the products cannot carry the label anymore. The NCP approved certification bodies operate in accordance with ISO 17065 and have many years of experience in certifying ethically oriented standards in the industry. https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/

    • Auditor Competencies
      5/7
      • Does the scheme owner define specific qualifications and competencies for CAB auditors?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065 and have long-running experience of certifying ethically oriented standards in the business sector.

      • Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors successfully complete training on the standard and its interpretation?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        “The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065”: this entails personal training

      • Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors successfully complete auditor training based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        “The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065”: this auditor skills training

      • Does the scheme owner require that new auditors have a probationary period where their competence in an audit is assessed or supervised?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        Coordination of the certification process and the issuing of certificates is overseen by EcoControl GmbH.

      • Does the scheme owner require that CAB auditors are evaluated at least every 3 years?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065

      • Does the scheme owner have or require that CABs have a continuing professional development program in place?
        Answer: Annually
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Annually (0 points)
        • Ad Hoc (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        “The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065”: this entails continuous training

      • Does the scheme owner require that there are repercussions such as probation or suspension for the misconduct or poor performance of CAB personnel?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        The certification and control bodies that are permitted by the CSE standard work according to ISO 17065

    • Accreditation / Oversight
      14/16
      • Does the scheme require a documented accreditation or oversight mechanism?
        Answer: Yes publicly available
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require ISO 17011 compliance for ABs?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        In 2004 the IOAS was recognised as operating both the IFOAM and ISO/IEC Guide 65 Accreditation Programmes in line with ISO/IEC Guide61 by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, part of the US Department of Commerce. It is also subject to continued surveillance for compliance with ISO/IEC 17011 by the Canadian Food inspection Agency and more recently successfully completed a peer review by the Pacific Asia Co-operation (a regional Group of the International Accreditation Forum) and consequently signed the MLA for ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation.

      • Is the accreditation or oversight body independent from the scheme owner?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        IOAS s independent from EcoControl GmbH

      • How often do assurance providers undergo a full accreditation or oversight assessment?
        Answer: <1 year
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • <1 year (2 points)
        • 1 year (2 points)
        • 2-3 years (2 points)
        • 4-5 years (1 point)
        • >5 years (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
        • None (0 points)
      • Is the frequency of an accreditation or oversight assessment based in part on a risk assessment of the client?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        ISO 17065 accreditation of the certification body.

      • Does the scheme owner ensure that all CABs are free to apply to operate under the scheme, irrespective of their country of residence, size and of the existing number of providers already operating under the scheme?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner accept CABs that are accredited/accepted by ABs to similar or generic scopes (proxy accreditation)?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Yes assess scheme-specific competence (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        In 2004 the IOAS was recognised as operating both the IFOAM and ISO/IEC Guide 65 Accreditation Programmes in line with ISO/IEC Guide61 by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, part of the US Department of Commerce. It is also subject to continued surveillance for compliance with ISO/IEC 17011 by the Canadian Food inspection Agency and more recently successfully completed a peer review by the Pacific Asia Co-operation (a regional Group of the International Accreditation Forum) and consequently signed the MLA for ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation.

      • Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to have a documented complaints mechanism in place for compliance decisions?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to have a procedure in place for how CABs are required to address non-conformities using a corrective action process?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require ABs or oversight bodies to make summary accreditation/oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner ensure that the accreditation or oversight assessment includes an on-site assessment of the CAB?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner ensure that the accreditation or oversight process includes a review of the performance of CABs and auditors in the field?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
  • Claims & Traceability
    12/17
    • Traceability
      3/5
      • Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes available on request (1 point)
        • Yes publicly available (2 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
        Answer: Not Applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require CABs to verify that all enterprises within the chain maintain accurate and accessible records that allow any certified product or batch of products to be traceable from the point of sale to the buyer?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        8. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Any company that brings NCP-certified products on the market, must establish a quality management system (QM system) to ensure traceability and quality control in accordance with the HACCP and GMP for cosmetics (ISO 22716). https://gfaw.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/en-NCP-Standard-3.8.pdf

    • Claims & Labelling
      9/12
      • Does the scheme owner make documented requirements governing the use of symbols, logos and claims available?
        Answer: Yes publicly
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (on request) (1 point)
        • Yes publicly (2 points)
      • Do claims and labelling requirements ensure that claims or logos clearly indicate to what they apply?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Do claims requirements specify the types of claims that can be made for different types of CoC models, where the scheme owner allows for more than one model?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        https://gfaw.eu/en/ncp/ 2 kind of labels: one for natural products: NCP and one for vegan natural Products: NCP-vegan

      • Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
        Answer: No
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme require different claims depending on the percentage of certified / verified content in a product?
        Answer: Not Applicable
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • What is the minimum percentage of a certified / verified input in a single ingredient product for a claim to be allowed for that product?
        Answer: 95-100%
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • 0-49% (1 point)
        • 50-74% (1 point)
        • 75-94% (2 points)
        • 95-100% (2 points)
        • Not specified (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)

        Source:

        Upon the successful certification of the registered products, the label "NCP Nature Care Product" may be used for marketing purposes. In addition to the use of the label, the user may also advertize the ingredients in the product as organic. The user may also advertize the whole product as organic if at least 95% of the agricultural ingredients are certified organic. In this case, the proportions of the organic ingredients, expressed in percentages, must be indicated. https://gfaw.eu/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/en-NCP-Standard-3.8.pdf

      • What is the minimum percentage of certified / verified material in a composite product for a claim to be allowed for that product?
        Answer: No Information available
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • 0-20% (1 point)
        • 21-50% (1 point)
        • 51-74% (2 points)
        • 75-100% (2 points)
        • Not specified (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
        Answer: Yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Yes (1 point)
        • No (0 points)
        • Not applicable (0 points)
      • Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims?
        Answer: yes
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • yes (1 point)

        Source:

        Standard user contract


En­vir­on­ment 72%

  • Aquatic Toxicity
  • Biodegradability of Substances
  • Chemicals harmful to human health
  • Quantity of Packaging
  • Recyclability of Packaging Material
  • Consumer information regarding sustainable use and disposal of product
  • Chemicals
    9/12
    • Chemical Use
      9/12
      • Does the standard include criteria on chemicals listed on the REACH Candidate List as substances of very high concern?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use except for defined derogations (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        1. The NPC standard’s range of application [...] Compliance with the statutory provisions, in particular with regard to regulation (EC) 648/2004 (detergents) and its revisions, particularly in relation to the environmental compatibility of washing and cleaning agents, regulation (EC) 528/2012 (biocide)2, regulation (EC) 1272/2008 (CLP) and regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH), regulation on fertilizers (DüMV), and the Plant Protection Act (Pflanzenschutzgesetz) is a prerequisite to receiving the NCP standard label. The requirements for the NCP standard go beyond these regulations. 2. General Criteria [...] NCP-certified products shall not contain SVHC substances (Substances of Very High Concerns)3 or CMR substances, in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 (CLP), except for the fragrances (according to ISO 9235). However, the final product may not be classified in the H400 series, according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (CLP) on the classification, labeling and packaging of substances and mixtures, with the exception of products whose natural essential oils (fragrances according to ISO 9235) result in H400-classification. Footnote 3: As part of compliance with the REACH Regulation, SVHC substances must be labeled as such.

        Referenzdokumente:

        1. The NPC standard’s range of application 2. General Criteria

      • Does the standard include criteria on ready biodegradability of substances?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor and restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        4.2.1 Surfactants Surfactants must be derived from raw materials of natural origin. All surfactants must demonstrate a biodegradability of > 60% within 28 days, in accordance with the OECD test 310 (EN ISO 14593, CO2 headspace test) for aerobic degradation and OECD test 311 (EN ISO 11734) for anaerobic degradation. 5. Prohibited Materials Materials from the following groups may not be used for NCP-certified products: [...] • Poorly biodegradable organic substances and anaerobically non-degradable organic substances listed in the DID list of the EU Regulations EcoLabel6 Footnote 6: 6 See: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/ecolabel/documents/did_list/didlist_part_a_en.pdf anaerob marked with "N" means NON-degradable, aerobic marked with "P" means POORLY degradable.

        Referenzdokumente:

        4.2.1 Surfactants 5. Prohibited Materials

      • Does the standard include criteria on H statements?
        Answer: Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use by e.g. a risk based approach (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use with exemptions for some ingredients (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Materials from the following groups may not be used for NCP-certified products: • Materials of petrochemical origin, with the exceptions listed in the white list. • Poorly biodegradable organic substances and anaerobically non-degradable organic substances listed in the DID list of the EU Regulations EcoLabel6 • Surfactants from coniferous resins • EDTA-chelating agents, glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde or formaldehyde splitters • Halogenated organic compounds • Synthetic fats, oils, waxes or silicones • Aromatic amines, ethanolamines and ethanol derivatives Synthetic fragrances • Mercury • Musk compounds • Phthalates • Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and PEG derivatives • Synthetic surfactants such as alkylbenzolsulphonates • Quaternary ammonium compounds • Borium and its derivatives • Phosphorus and synthetic phosphates • Mineral acids (H3PO4, HCl, H2SO4, ...) and their derivatives • Ethoxylated substances, with exceptions according to 4.4.2

        Referenzdokumente:

        5. Prohibited Materials

      • Does the scheme include criteria on other substances which have impact on human health and the environment?
        Answer: Basic: Restrict use
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Restrict use (1 point)
        • Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        [...] For products from the field of letterpress printing (at least 80% of the product consists of paper), the following applies: The paper is FSC, PEFC or recycled paper or board. If individual components of the products cannot be manufactured using the permitted chemical processes from Chapter 4.2, e.g. inks, varnishes, individual additional components such as screws or rubber, these at least meet food law requirements according to Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004, are free of mineral oils, do not contain any substances from Chapter 5, no SVHC substances, no CMR substances and have not been classified in an H400 series (see also Chapter 2 General criteria). The entire product follows the principle "reduce, reuse, recycle".

        Referenzdokumente:

        4.4.3 Products according to DIN EN 71-7

      • Does the standard include criteria on limitations of aquatic toxicity of the product?
        Answer: Basic: Limitation of aquatic toxicity
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Limitation of aquatic toxicity (1 point)
        • Advanced: Definition of a product specific critical dilution volume (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Testing on animals in order to determine the LD50 values for vertebrates and/or the aquatic toxicity for raw materials is not allowed. Data on similar substances may be used to calculate an analogy or data may be determined through in-vitro-experiments.

        Referenzdokumente:

        2. General criteria

      • Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of microplastic?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the standard include criteria on the limited use of propellants?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        Propellant gases are considered to be components of the final product. NCP-certified products may use the following propellant gases: carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and compressed air.

        Referenzdokumente:

        4.2 MODIFIED RAW MATERIALS 4.2.3 AEROSOLS

  • Water
    0/2
    • Water use
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
  • Inputs
    3/4
    • Packaging
      3/4
      • Does the standard include criteria on the quantity of packaging?
        Answer: Basic: General requirement to minimize the amount of material used
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: General requirement to minimize the amount of material used (1 point)
        • Advanced: Defined calculations to measure the quantity of packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        NCP-certified products are required to use environmentally friendly packaging. This includes reusable packaging or disposable packaging made of recyclable material, such as glass, PE and PP plastic, cardboard, paper or metal. If individual packaging with water-soluble film is used, the film is not made of PVA. Refillable packaging as well as a recycling or refill-service designed to minimize packaging should be offered on the market or to cooperation partners – if needed. All reusable and refillable packaging should be labeled with instructions and information on the effects and safety aspects of the product and an instruction pamplett with information on the efficient and proper use of the product must be included. This involves the necessary use of water softeners in hard water to minimize the non-degradable lime soap residue.

        Referenzdokumente:

        7. Packaging and Instructions for Use

      • Does the standard include criteria on the packaging material in order to facilitate recycling?
        Answer: Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging
        Degree of Obligation: Immediately
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Either recyclability of packaging material OR the use of recycled material in packaging (1 point)
        • Advanced: Recyclability of packaging material AND the use of recycled material in packaging (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        NCP-certified products are required to use environmentally friendly packaging. This includes reusable packaging or disposable packaging made of recyclable material, such as glass, PE and PP plastic, cardboard, paper or metal. If individual packaging with water-soluble film is used, the film is not made of PVA. Refillable packaging as well as a recycling or refill-service designed to minimize packaging should be offered on the market or to cooperation partners – if needed pamplett with information on the efficient and proper use of the product must be included. This involves the necessary use of water softeners in hard water to minimize the non-degradable lime soap residue.

        Referenzdokumente:

        7. Packaging and Instructions for Use

  • Energy & Climate
    2/2
    • Climate Change Mitigation
      2/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
        Answer: Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 2/2
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
        • Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)

        Excerpt from standard:

        1. Energy and resource consumption (electricity, heating, cooling, water, IT, etc.) is optimised (e.g. through appropriate behaviour at work). In this respect there is a strategy that aims to reduce resources and energy and includes staff training.

        Referenzdokumente:

        6.4. SUSTAINABILITY ASPECT: ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

  • Waste and Air Pollution
    1/2
    • Waste Management
      1/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the scheme include criteria on consumer information on the sustainable use and disposal of the product?
        Answer: Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Information provided to consumers on the disposal of the product (1 point)
        • Advanced: Consumer information on the sustainable use of the product (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        [...] All reusable and refillable packaging should be labeled with instructions and information on the effects and safety aspects of the product and an instruction pamplett with information on the efficient and proper use of the product must be included. This involves the necessary use of water softeners in hard water to minimize the non-degradable lime soap residue.

        Referenzdokumente:

        7. Packaging and Instructions for Use

  • Environmental Management
    2/2
    • Does the standard include criteria on environmental policy or management instruments (like EMAS or ISO 14001)?
      Answer: Advanced: Certification (third party) of final manufacturing plant
      Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
      Score: 2/2
      Possible answers
      • Basic: Verification (self-declaration) of final manufacturing plant (1 point)
      • Advanced: Certification (third party) of final manufacturing plant (2 points)

      Excerpt from standard:

      CSE-certified companies introduce a sustainability management system to ensure the quality of their sustainable management according to ISO 14001:2015. The preexisting, company-specific management system is integrated into this, creating a single integrated system. This sustainability management system is then used to systematically maintain high quality sustainable management of the company. The norm ISO 14001:2015 serves as a basis for the sustainability management system. This standard refers only to the environment, for example containing the establishment of environmental issues and a systematic procedure to deal with these. The CSE standard goes far beyond these norms, however, not only by including additional pillars of sustainability, but also by setting absolute criteria.

      Referenzdokumente:

      5. SYSTEMIC REQUIREMENTS - Section Management System -

  • Quality
    1/1
    • Quality and Suitability
      1/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the fitness for use of the product for the intended purpose?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        4. Paper products with the same suitability come from the listed materials according to the following priority list: 100% recycled paper, PEFC, FSC, Umweltengel.

        Referenzdokumente:

        6.3. SUSTAINABILITY ASPECT: HANDLING RESOURCES


So­cio-E­co­nom­ic 8%

  • Verification of Core Labour Standards along the Supply Chain
  • Equal Opportunities
  • CSR Strategy
  • Labour Rights and Working Conditions
    0/4
    • ILO Core Conventions
      0/2
      • Does the standard require compliance with (at least) all ILO core labour standards for different suppliers along the supply chain?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Health and Safety
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on occupational health and safety, as defined in ILO 155?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
  • Business Practice and Ethical Issues
    0/2
    • Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
      0/1
      • Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Corruption and Bribery
      0/1
      • Does the standard include criteria on the prevention of corruption and bribery?
        Answer: -
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • Basic: Corruption and bribery is prohibited (1 point)
        • Advanced: -

        Excerpt from standard:

        This standard regulates the requirements for the acquisition of authorisation usage of the sustainability label “CSE“ for companies. Requirements that are already covered by regulations on cosmetics, waste disposal, labour etc. are not part of this standard. The standard requires that all legal regulations are respected, including avoiding corruption, not forming tax havens, not funding militant organisations, etc.

        Referenzdokumente:

        2. INTRODUCTION

  • Company Responsibility
    1/7
    • Company Responsibility in Europe
      1/5
      • Does the standard require the implementation of measures that aim at generating equal economic opportunities for women and men?
        Answer: Yes
        Degree of Obligation: Transition Period
        Score: 1/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)

        Excerpt from standard:

        1. Working hours are designed to be family-friendly, whereby working hours are managed flexibly. Meetings and obligatory internal events after 17:00 are only necessary in exceptional cases and for which justification can be given. No employee is forced to work at the weekend.

        Referenzdokumente:

        6.14. SUSTAINABILITY ASPECT: EMPLOYER ATTRACTIVENESS

      • Does the standard require the definition of a company-wide CSR strategy?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the standard include criteria on community engagement?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
      • Does the standard include requirements on measures that aim at managing demographic change?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/1
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)
    • Impact Assessment
      0/2
      • Does the standard include criteria on assessing the impacts of operations on human rights?
        Answer: No
        Degree of Obligation: Not covered
        Score: 0/2
        Possible answers
        • No (0 points)
        • Yes (1 point)

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Cultivation of renewable raw materials (e.g. palm oil) and/or extraction and production of ingredients

Manufacturing

Production of detergents and cleaning agents by the mixing of various ingredients (vegetable or petroleum-based)

Transportation / distribution

Transport routes from one production stage to the next and to end users

Products use and consumption

Usage of detergents and cleaning agents

End-of-life

Proper disposal of packaging along with degradability and toxicity of the product (in water) after its use