
Experts in the CO₂ Performance Ladder
CO2 Performance Ladder
The pressure on organizations to carry out their activities and processes in a demonstrably more sustainable way is increasing rapidly. Governments, clients and supply chain partners expect insight into CO₂ emissions as well as concrete reduction measures. The CO₂ Performance Ladder helps organizations to organize and demonstrate this in a structured way.
The instrument combines a CO₂ management system with a procurement tool. Organizations map their own energy consumption and emissions and set reduction targets. Normec then independently assesses whether the system meets the requirements of the certification scheme.
In this way, sustainability becomes not just an ambition, but a demonstrably effective process.
Benefits of certification
Greater chance of winning tenders due to award advantages
Financial benefits through structural CO₂ and energy reduction
Stronger image as a sustainable supplier and employer
Demonstrable control over energy consumption and emissions
Compliance with requirements from clients and supply chain partners
The higher the level on the ladder, the greater the tendering advantage and the stronger the market position.
What is the CO2 Performance Ladder?
The CO₂ Performance Ladder is a method for structurally organizing energy and CO₂ management.
You: • map energy flows and emissions • determine the organizational boundary • set reduction targets • communicate about progress and ambitions • demonstrate continuous improvement
The system has five levels. The higher the level, the more insight, supply chain influence and substantiation are expected, and the greater the appreciation from clients.
Well prepared for your audit
An audit for the CO₂ Performance Ladder is not a snapshot, but proof that your system works. Certification therefore starts with a phase 1 document review. Here, an auditor assesses whether the management system has been sufficiently designed and implemented for an in-depth on-site audit.
Any points of attention are discussed in advance so you can make targeted improvements before the certification audit.
How do you prepare your organization?
1. Establish a basic structure: Create an account in the CO₂ Performance Ladder environment and store documentation centrally. This prevents fragmentation and creates structure from the start.
2. Determine the organizational boundaries: Define which parts of the organization fall within the scope of certification. This forms the basis for a reliable emissions inventory and targets.
3. Align planning and scope with Normec: If desired, we can assess the boundary in advance and determine the organizational size. Together we plan a realistic implementation period so that processes demonstrably work.
4. Set up the management system: Work according to the CO₂ Performance Ladder Handbook: • policy, roles and responsibilities • insight into energy and emissions • supply chain analysis and controllable emissions • continuous improvement
The higher the level, the more extensive the requirements regarding supply chain influence and substantiation.
5. Define objectives and measures: Formulate achievable and well-substantiated reduction targets with concrete actions, ownership and evaluation moments. From higher levels onwards, you work towards zero emissions for scopes 1, 2 and 3.
6. Make communication demonstrable: Show that employees and stakeholders are involved through internal and external communication, for example via intranet, toolbox meetings, newsletters and consultations.
7. Organize collaboration in the supply chain: Work together with suppliers and partners to reduce controllable emissions and make supply chain impact visible.
8. Conduct an internal audit and management review: Before the external audit, verify that the system works and record which improvements have been implemented. Management then evaluates the effectiveness and makes adjustments where necessary.
Certification with Normec
Normec does not provide substantive implementation support but independently and expertly assesses whether the system complies with the certification scheme. Our auditors combine practical knowledge with insight into procurement and sustainability requirements, ensuring your audit process is efficient and predictable.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
The CO₂ Performance Ladder offers several benefits for your organisation. Firstly, it can enhance your competitive edge, as more clients are placing importance on sustainability and requiring CO₂ reduction in tender processes. Additionally, it can help you achieve cost savings through more efficient energy usage and sustainable practices. Achieving certification demonstrates your organisation’s commitment to sustainability, which can also strengthen your reputation as a socially responsible business.
Normec supports you throughout the CO₂ Performance Ladder certification process. This starts with assessing your current CO₂ emissions and developing a plan to reduce them. Normec helps you implement sustainable measures and ensures you meet the requirements at each level of the ladder. This ensures you are well-prepared to achieve certification and meet your sustainability goals.
The CO₂ Performance Ladder is suitable for organisations that want to focus on reducing their CO₂ emissions and integrating sustainability into their operations. It is particularly relevant for companies involved in tenders, as certification is often required by public or semi-public clients. However, smaller businesses can also benefit, as it helps them work more sustainably while strengthening their competitive position.

