This guide explains the EcoVadis assessment framework, the benefits of obtaining a rating, and the critical first steps to launching your project with Greenly.
What is EcoVadis?
EcoVadis is one of the world’s leading sustainability rating platforms. It is used by over 100,000 companies to measure and demonstrate their performance across environmental, social, and ethical metrics.
The assessment helps you understand your sustainability strengths and identify areas for improvement. Many organizations use EcoVadis ratings for supplier evaluation, making it a valuable tool to demonstrate your commitment to responsible business practices.
The 4 Pillars of Assessment
EcoVadis analysts review your documentation against 21 sustainability criteria grouped into four main themes:
Environment
Labor & Human Rights
Ethics
Sustainable Procurement
Companies receive a score from 0 to 100 and a Scorecard benchmarking performance against peers. Based on your ranking, you may be awarded Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum medals valid for 12 months.
How an EcoVadis Assessment Works
The EcoVadis process follows a specific lifecycle. Understanding these steps will help you anticipate the workload.
Registration & Customization: You register on the platform and receive a questionnaire tailored to your industry, size, and country.
Data Collection: You upload supporting documents (policies, reports, certificates). Self-declarations are not accepted.
Data Verification: Analysts review your submitted documents against the 4 themes.
360° Watch: EcoVadis cross-checks your data with external sources (NGOs, media, regulatory databases).
Scoring & Benchmarking: You receive your score and performance comparison.
Medals & Badges: Recognition is awarded based on your percentile ranking.
Improvement Areas: The Scorecard highlights weaknesses to address.
Disclosure: You share your Scorecard with business partners and investors.
Preparing for Your Project with Greenly
To ensure a successful collaboration, we need to synchronize with your EcoVadis timeline and access your specific requirements immediately. Please complete the following two steps before our kickoff.
1. Confirm Your Submission Deadline
Your deadline is set by EcoVadis and defines our project timeline. At Greenly, we aim to complete our work at least 2 weeks before your official deadline to allow time for review and final upload.
How to find your deadline:
Log in to your EcoVadis account.
Go to the Questionnaire tab.
Locate the deadline date displayed at the top of the landing page.
Note: If you believe the deadline is too tight, EcoVadis allows clients to request a postponement of up to 60 days. Please request this immediately if you need extra time.
2. Export Your Questionnaire
We need your specific questionnaire to guide you effectively. The questions vary significantly based on company size, sector, and location.
How to download the Excel version in Ecovadis platform:
Log in to your EcoVadis account.
Click Enter Questionnaire on the Dashboard.
Select Questionnaire in the left sidebar.
Click Download Questionnaire and select the As a Spreadsheet option.
Share this file with your Greenly support team.
Benefits and Challenges
Preparing for EcoVadis can be resource-intensive, but the return on investment is significant.
Common Challenges:
Resource Intensity: Collecting documents across departments takes time.
Scope Clarity: Ensuring documents apply to the correct scope (e.g., specific sites vs. group level) can be difficult.
Strict Evidence Rules: Files may be rejected if they are outdated or missing company branding.
Key Benefits:
Competitive Advantage: A strong score enhances reputation and unlocks business opportunities.
Risk Management: Identifies environmental and ethical risks in your operations.
Compliance: Aligns your business with frameworks like CSRD, GRI, and ISO 26000.
Continuous Improvement: Provides a clear roadmap to advance your sustainability performance annually.