Developement of a monitoring tool.
Source: STAR4BBS
Embedding sustainability into production and consumption requires the adoption of robust assessment methodologies and voluntary sustainability certification schemes and labels (CSLs). Although CSLs are intended to reduce environmental and socio-economic risks, their rapid proliferation and their varying effectiveness levels has raised questions regarding their reliability.
To address these challenges, Ladu et al. (2025) present a conceptual monitoring framework designed to evaluate the robustness and effectiveness of voluntary CSLs operating in complex bio-based value chains. Addressing critical gaps in the certification landscape, the framework provides a structured, multidimensional, and adaptable approach to promote sustainable production in the bioeconomy. It focuses on three core functions: (I) Building Trust and Transparency, (II) Protecting Sustainability Areas of Concern, and (III) Driving Continuous Improvement.
The concept has been further developed by the BIOBASEDCERT Cluster (comprising three Europe projects: STAR4BBS, SUSTCERT4BIOBASED and HARMONITOR) into the BIOBASEDCERT Monitoring Tool (BMT). Structured across three levels (system, content and outcome), following the functions identified in Ladu et al. (2025), the BMT has been tested with nine relevant CSLs, including the Roundtable for Sustainable Biomass (RSB), Better Cotton, and the EU Ecolabel.
To enhance accessibility, the BMT is available as a web-based, user-friendly self-assessment platform. It features enhanced data visualization and dynamic reporting, enabling users to better interpret and act on sustainability performance results. By supporting continuous improvement, the tool encourages the development of more transparent, credible, and harmonized CSLs across the bioeconomy.
How to measure the robustness and effectiveness of certification schemes and labels in ensuring the sustainability of bio-based products
Luana Ladu, Nikola Matović, Enrica Imbert, Ana Gabriela Encino-Munoz
Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 390, 2025