Application and certification process for companies

Phase 1: Application to Green Shape e.V.

The company must first apply to the program owner to participate in the Green Shape® certification program. The following are required: 

• The completed application form
• A self-assessment of the Green Shape criteria 

The company receives feedback within three months. If the decision is positive, a license agreement follows - a prerequisite for all further steps. 

Phase 2: Application to the certification body 

Upon confirmation by the scheme owner, the company can commission an approved certification body. Comprehensive information is submitted for this purpose, including 

• Overview of product locations, supply chains, production countries 

• List of products and classes of goods to be certified 

• Audit reports of previous certifications (if available) 

• Organizational and personnel structure 

• Supply chain risk analysis in accordance with OECD guidelines 

The certification body examines the application, requests additional information if necessary and decides whether to carry out the audit. Only then does the actual certification process begin.