TL; DR
B Lab has launched a major update to the B Corp Certification standards (April 2025), raising the bar for businesses that want to be recognized as truly sustainable and responsible.
Key changes include:
It is no longer possible to become a B Corp by scoring well in only one area. Need to score well in all 7 areas
No more points system
Stronger focus on accountability, transparency, and science-based climate targets.
A phased rollout starting now, with full adoption expected by 2027.
Introduction
On April 8th 2025, B Lab unveiled a major update to the B Corp Certification standards, raising the bar for what it means to be a sustainable business. While the official aim is to provide more clarity and consistency the shift is also a response to the rapid increase in certified companies and the need to differentiate leaders in sustainability and inclusion.
The new standard eliminates loopholes that allowed companies to excel in one area and overlook others. Greenwashing won’t pass anymore.
In this post we break down the changes, what they mean for your business, and why becoming a B Corp is worth it.
What changed: old and new B Corp standards
Previously, the certification used a points system. A company could score 80 out of 200 and receive the certification. This allowed some to excel in one area and neglect others.
The new standard requires companies to meet minimum requirements across seven areas. Climate action is no longer optional, as it is a mandatory base for all B Corps. Larger companies are also expected to meet enhanced transparency and accountability standards, including detailed reporting and third-party verification.
Dive deeper into how to by checking out our article for practical tips and tricks.
This evolution sets B Corp as a framework for continuous improvement, not just a certification.
The new B Corp framework: two main components
The revised standards introduce two main requirements:
1. Foundation Requirements
Baseline criteria to determine whether a company qualifies for certification. Without meeting these, further assessment doesn’t apply.
While the previous standard was based on a points system, which allowed companies to score well in one area and achieve certification, the new standard does not allow that anymore.
2. Impact Topic Requirements
Companies must now meet minimum standards in all the following areas:
Purpose & Stakeholder Governance: Align decisions with a clear mission and stakeholder benefit.
Fair Work: Ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and employee voice.
Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI): Foster inclusive workplaces and equitable community impact.
Human Rights: Know your impact and take steps to protect human rights across your operations and supply chain.
Climate Action: Have a real plan to cut your emissions and help keep global warming below 1.5°C.
Environmental Stewardship & Circularity: Reduce waste, adopt circular practices, and use resources responsibly.
Government Affairs & Collective Action: Advocate for systems-level change through policy engagement and partnerships.
Climate action: what’s new?
One of the most significant updates is in the climate action requirements. The new standard shifts focus from offsetting to measurable, science-based reductions. Offsetting is no longer a substitute for real action—only a final step after reduction.
Emissions Measurement:
Companies must measure emissions across Scope 1, 2 and 3
Larger companies must obtain third-party verification of their emissions data to ensure accuracy.
We already covered a detailed overview of the different emission scopes, check out our article if you’d like to dive deeper.
Science-based targets
Businesses must set clear and measurable emission reduction targets aligned with limiting global warming to 1.5°C (such as SBTi or similar frameworks)
Targets must include short-, mid-, and long-term goals
Reductions come first; offsetting is only for what remains
Climate transition plan
Companies are expected to create strategic roadmaps outlining steps to achieve net-zero emissions
The plan should show how climate targets will be achieved, and explain any missed goals
Annual reporting
Organizations must publicly disclose yearly progress on climate initiatives to achieve transparency and accountability
If targets are missed, companies must explain why and how they will adjust.
New B Corp standard implementation timeline
B Lab is adopting a phased approach:
2025: Finalization of the new standards.
2026: New digital platforms and tools to support the new standards.
2027: Beginning of certifications and recertifications process based on the new standard
Existing B Corps will be given time and support to transition.
Preparing for the B Corp transition
If your company is aiming to become (or remain) a B Corp here is what you should do:
Understand the new standards: Know the specific requirements in each impact area.
Assess current practices: Identify gaps between existing operations in your company and the new standards. Give yourself enough time to adapt to the new requirements within your organization
Engage stakeholders: It takes a team. Involve employees, suppliers, and partners in aligning with the new B Corp criteria.
Seek guidance: Consult with B Lab or experienced B Corp consultants to navigate the certification process.
Regreener can guide you through this process. Reach out to us if you wish to get help with your emission calculation or for general guidance with the new standard.
Why you should get a B Corp certification
With stricter regulations such as the CSRD and the new Green Claims Directive (coming by 2027), businesses are faced with the need to act.
At the same time, demands for more transparency and action are rising.
Getting B Corp certified now shows that your company is committed to genuine and measurable impact
Here is what the certification offers:
Responsibility: The recognition from an external party to show what your company is striving for. This shows seriousness about sustainability.
Trust and Reputation: Earn credibility with consumers, employees, and investors. This means a stronger market reputation and potential growth in revenues.
Community: Join the global B Corp movement of almost 10.000 businesses that strive for positive change.
Clear framework: Practical guidance to measure, manage, report, and improve over time.
Conclusion
The 2025 B Corp standard is more than just a certification: it’s a signal of real commitment to doing business for good. With stricter regulations, now is the time for companies to show leadership. Companies committed to sustainability and social responsibility should embrace these changes as an opportunity to lead in ethical business conduct.
By aligning with the updated B Corp framework, your business gains credibility, clarity, and community. Whether you're starting the journey or ready to recertify, these updates give you a powerful structure to make your impact count and prove it.
