FSC / Milan Reška

19 supply chain certifications for you and your company

Learn about the top sustainable supply chain certifications for both professionals and companies and how they can benefit your career or bottom line.

October 8, 2024

In today's competitive business landscape, supply chain certifications have become essential for supply chain companies aiming to solidify their position as leaders in sustainability and responsible sourcing practices. For companies and professionals alike, these certifications validate expertise and proficiency in various aspects of supply chain operations, from logistics to procurement.

Amidst the plethora of certifications available, sustainable supply chain certifications play a crucial role in ensuring product sustainability and ethical sourcing.

By focusing on sustainable certifications alongside basic ones, professionals and companies can boost their credentials while contributing to a more responsible and ethical supply chain ecosystem – ultimately driving positive change in the industry. But how do you find the right certification? Here are some of the top 19 sustainable supply chain certifications to consider.

Table of contents:

The rise of ESG
Why get certified
FSC chain of custody
Concrete Sustainability Council (CSC)
Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard
Cradle to Cradle Certified
CRSB Certified
ASCM Enterprise Ceritification for Sustainability
ASCM Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
ASCM Certified in Inventory and Production Management (CPIM)
ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
ISM Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD)
ISCEA Certified Sustainable Supply Chain Professional (CSSCP)
Chartered Sustainable Supply Chain and Logistics Professional (CSSCLP)
Additional certifications
FAQs

The rise of ESG in supply chain management and its career importance

As businesses and consumers become increasingly concerned about environmental and ethical issues, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles are transforming the way supply chains are managed.

ESG frameworks prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance, requiring businesses to rethink their supply chain strategies to align with these values. For professionals in the supply chain industry, developing expertise in ESG-related practices is becoming crucial for career growth and long-term success.

Seven illustrations accompany a list of benefits of supply chain sustainability.

Why obtain a supply chain certification?

On an individual career level, professional certifications for supply chain management can enhance career prospects and earning potential. Certified professionals are equipped with the latest industry knowledge, skills, and best practices to align with regulations, making them valuable assets to their organizations. This knowledge also protects professionals from forms of social abuse and economic fairness risks in the office. Employees can advocate for improved governance, which mitigates ESG risks.

On an organizational level, sustainable supply chain certifications demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship and align with evolving consumer preferences for eco-conscious products.

By adhering to stringent standards and practices, certified professionals and companies actively contribute to the preservation of natural resources, reduction of carbon emissions, and protection of biodiversity. This environmental stewardship mitigates the negative impact of supply chain activities and fosters a culture of sustainability within the industry.

An illustrated list shows the top supply chain certifications for businesses and what organizations they’re offered by. — ©FSC / Arturo Escobar

1. FSC chain of custody

For:	Businesses
Cost:	Contact FSC teams in your country or region for details
Prerequisite:	Gross annual sales of wood products that are less than $5 million

One type of FSC certification is the FSC chain of custody certification, created for businesses committed to sourcing materials from responsibly managed forests. Offered by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), this certification ensures that products are tracked through every stage of production, from forest to consumer, guaranteeing the integrity of their sustainable origins.

Companies obtaining this certification demonstrate their dedication to ethical and environmentally conscious practices, appealing to consumers who prioritize sustainability. Manufacturers across various industries, from paper and packaging to furniture and construction, can benefit significantly from FSC chain of custody certification, as it not only enhances their environmental credentials but also opens doors to new markets driven by the growing demand for sustainable products.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

2. Concrete Sustainability Council (CSC)

For:	Businesses
Cost:	Contact CSC for details
Prerequisite:	Audit of performance in existing areas of responsible sourcing, purchase of registration rights

The Concrete Sustainability Council was developed to help concrete and cement companies operate in a more environmentally and economically responsible way, promoting concrete as a sustainable building material. The Concrete Sustainability Council (CSC) certification ensures that concrete products are sourced and manufactured with regard to environmental and social sustainability.

This certification evaluates factors such as responsible sourcing of raw materials, energy efficiency, and social accountability throughout the concrete supply chain. Builders, architects, developers, and contractors seeking to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable construction practices can greatly benefit from CSC Certification.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

3. Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard

For:	Businesses
Cost:	Varies; see FAQ page for details
Prerequisite:	Systems in place to track and trace certified products throughout the supply chain; record-keeping processes to demonstrate compliance with certification standards

Administered by the globally renowned Rainforest Alliance organization, the Sustainable Agricultural Standard Supply Chain Certification is a comprehensive framework designed to ensure the traceability and sustainability of agricultural products throughout the supply chain. It covers rigorous requirements for businesses involved in processing, trading, and handling certified crops, including coffee, tea, cocoa, and fruit.

To become certified, businesses must implement strong systems for tracking these products, from farm to final consumer, to maintain the integrity of sustainability labels. The certification also requires adherence to certain environmental, social and economic criteria, including responsible sourcing practices, fair treatment of workers, and conservation of natural resources.

This certification is ideal for businesses looking to demonstrate their commitment to ethical sourcing practices and gain access to markets that demand accountability in agricultural supply chains.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

4. Cradle to Cradle Certified

For:	Businesses
Cost:	$1,500-$16,800 (varies by company revenue; see Fees Schedule for details)
Prerequisite:	See Section 2 of the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Product Standard Version 4.0 User Guide

The Cradle to Cradle Certified™ program focuses on environmentally sustainable product design and manufacturing. It evaluates products based on five key categories:

Material health
Material reutilization
Renewable energy and carbon management
Water stewardship
Social fairness

It ensures that products are designed with circular economy principles in mind to eliminate waste and promote the continuous reuse of materials.

Products that have been Cradle to Cradle® certified include building materials, electronics, textiles and apparel, furniture and household products, electronics, cosmetics, and cleaning products, making the certification relevant to businesses across a wide range of industries.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

5. CRSB Certified

For:	Businesses
Cost:	Contact CRSB for details
Prerequisite:	Undergo CRSB-approved audit

Overseen by the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB), the CRSB beef sustainability certification program is a leading initiative in the beef industry dedicated to promoting sustainable practices throughout the beef supply chain. The certification evaluates beef producers based on various criteria related to environmental, social, and economic sustainability, including:

Animal welfare
Biodiversity conservation
Water management
Community engagement

By obtaining CRSB Beef Sustainability Certification, producers demonstrate their commitment to responsible beef production practices that prioritize the well-being of animals, protect natural resources, and support local communities. It also fosters transparency and trust in the beef supply chain among consumers and retailers who want to make purchases that support ethical and environmentally conscious practices.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

6. ASCM Enterprise Certification for Sustainability

For:	Businesses
Cost:	Contact ASCM for details
Prerequisite:	Download the ASCM Enterprise Standards for Sustainability here for details

Offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), the ASCM Enterprise Certification for Sustainability is designed to help businesses achieve sustainability goals within their supply chains. It evaluates and recognizes companies that successfully integrate sustainability principles into their supply chain operations, processes, and strategies.

This certification is applicable to businesses across industries such as manufacturing, retail, and logistics, looking to showcase their dedication to minimizing environmental impact, promoting social responsibility, and fostering economic resilience throughout their supply chains. Becoming certified can help ensure your suppliers align with your business values, foster a culture of social responsibility, and create more operational transparency.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

An illustrated list shows the top supply chain certifications for professionals and what organizations they’re offered by. — ©FSC / Jonathan Perugia

7. ASCM Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	$1,390-$2,515 (self-study; find your local partner for pricing for instructor-led or instructor-assisted classes here)
Prerequisite:	None

ASCM also offers the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification. This certification is designed for professionals looking to advance their careers in sustainable supply chain strategy, design and compliance, and covers a wide range of topics needed for competence across the global supply chain. These include:

Supply chain planning and execution
Procurement and supplier relationship management
Logistics and distribution
Risk management

This certification is particularly valuable for supply chain roles such as logistics managers, supply chain analysts, operations managers, and procurement specialists. The program offers a variety of study options, including self-study, instructor-led, instructor-supported, or a corporate/group training setting that can be completed online or in person.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

8. ASCM Certified in Production and Inventory Management(CPIM)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	8. ASCM Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
Prerequisite:	None

The ASCM Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification is a globally recognized credential for professionals in the field of production and inventory management. It covers all aspects of the supply chain, focusing on production processes such as planning, scheduling, and inventory control.

The certification focuses on topics such as demand management, master scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), capacity planning, and inventory management. It’s ideal for supply chain production managers, inventory analysts, and operations managers looking to learn the techniques needed to optimize production processes and improve overall supply chain efficiency.

As with other ASCM certifications, the program offers different course options (self-study, instructor-led, instructor-supported, or corporate/group training) that can be completed either online or in person.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

9. ISM Certified Professional in Supply Management(CPSM)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	$795 per exam (3 exams total) + application processing fee
Prerequisite:	Three years of full-time, professional supply management experience(with a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent) OR five years of full-time, professional supply management experience (without a bachelor’s degree)

Offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) certification was designed to demonstrate expertise in end-to-end supply chain management, including strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and supply chain sustainability.

The program includes three exams: Supply Management Core, Supply Management Integration, and Leadership and Transformation in Supply Management. This certification is best for supply chain professionals in roles such as procurement managers, sourcing specialists, supply chain analysts, and supply chain managers.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

10. ISM Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity(CPSD)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	$795 per exam (2 exams total) + application processing fee
Prerequisite:	Three years of full-time, professional supply management experience(with a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent) OR five years of full-time, professional supply management experience (without a bachelor’s degree)

ISM also offers the Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity® (CPSD) certification, a unique certification geared toward promoting supplier diversity and inclusion within the supply chain. The CPSD® equips professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools to develop and implement supplier diversity programs that foster opportunities for diverse suppliers, including minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and LGBTQ+-owned businesses.

This certification particularly benefits procurement professionals, supplier diversity managers, diversity and inclusion officers, and supply chain executives seeking to lead diversity initiatives and create value through a diverse supplier base.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

11. ISCEA Certified Sustainable Supply Chain Professional(CSSCP)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	$1,600-$2,200
Prerequisite:	None (basic supply chain knowledge recommended)

Offered by the International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA), the Certified Sustainable Supply Chain Professional (CSSCP) certification is designed for professionals who want to learn how to integrate sustainability into supply chain principles.

The program supplements its topics with real industry examples of sustainable supply chains in action, including current initiatives and goals across different industries as they move toward a circular supply chain.

The CSSCP certification covers various topics, including environmental sustainability, social responsibility, ethical sourcing, green logistics, and circular economy principles. It’s ideal for all levels of supply chain professionals and sustainability officers looking to advance their careers and contribute to sustainable supply chain integrity. It's also valuable for organizations that need a starting point for implementing sustainability into their supply chain teams.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

12. Chartered Sustainable Supply Chain and Logistics Professional(CSSCLP)

For:	Professionals
Cost:	12. Chartered Sustainable Supply Chain and Logistics Professional (CSSCLP)
Prerequisite:	None

The Chartered Sustainable Supply Chain and Logistics Professional (CSSCLP) certification is designed to help professionals learn to integrate sustainability principles into their company’s supply chain, logistics, and procurement framework. It covers material like ESG best practices, circular supply chain practices, environmental impact assessments, and identification and implementation of green logistics and transportation within your supply chain.

This certification is ideal for supply chain managers, logistics professionals, sustainability officers, and others looking to advance their careers and positively impact the planet through sustainable supply chain management practices.

Learn more about this supply chain certification

Additional supply chain certifications

Organizations will continue to create new standards and certifications for professional development as supply chain sustainability and ESG commitments rise in popularity and implementation.

In addition to the previously mentioned 12 certifications, consider these key trainings for supply chain compliance and professional development.

13. ISO 14001: Environmental management certification

This training provides a framework for companies to create an environmental management system (EMS) and reduce environmental impacts from business activities.

Professionals learn the basics of environmental management standards and dig into auditing and system implementation to maintain the EMS.

It’s provided by ISO training providers and is ideal for environmental and operations managers, and other sustainability professionals.

14. Supplier Ethical Data Exchange (Sedex) training

Sedex certification focuses on ethical business practices for a global supply chain. This training course teaches professionals to assess supplier data, manage ethical practices, and can also include training to conduct Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audits (SMETA).

Sedex training is available online. This certification is a good fit for CSR professionals, procurement managers, and ethical auditors that want to improve supply chain transparency.

15. SA8000: Standard for social accountability

This Standard is a key certification for socially responsible business practices that promotes fair treatment of workers. This includes worker safety, fair wages, and labor rights throughout the supply chain.

The training teaches professionals social accountability and can also cover how to audit and certify companies according to the Standard. Training is available online and in person through providers like Social Accountability International (SAI).

16. EcoVadis Sustainability Rating training

EcoVadis rates companies according to their environmental, social, and ethical sustainability performance, then provides training for professionals to understand and improve a company’s rating.

Courses are available online, and EcoVadis also offers custom training based on a company’s performance and rating.

The training introduction covers the EcoVadis platform basics. Sustainability professionals can also enroll in advanced sustainability reporting courses to learn about preparing sustainability reports and maintaining ESG performance.

17. B Corp Certification

Like EcoVadis, B Corp Certification considers an individual company’s social and environmental performance with training to improve standards and practices.

The training is split into two groups. The B Impact Assessment workshops cover the assessment as a whole to identify improvement opportunities. Then B Corp Certification Training helps businesses prepare for B Corp certification and ensure the company practices align with sustainability goals.

This is ideal for business owners, supply chain professionals, and other professionals aiming to achieve B Corp status. Professionals can enroll in B Lab training or explore third-party boot camps to prepare for certification.

18. Fair Trade certification

Fair Trade training helps businesses understand and implement Fair Trade Standards, with additional training available on farming and ethical trade practices regarding wages and labor conditions.

These trainings are particularly important for supply chain professionals in agriculture, textiles, or consumer goods that aim to improve fair and ethical sourcing practices.

19. CDP Supply Chain Program

The CDP Supply Chain Program looks at the specific areas a supply chain can impact the environment, including carbon emissions, water management, and deforestation. The focus is on identifying risks and reducing a business’ impacts on our natural resources.

Professionals learn how to track and disclose environmental metrics like carbon emissions. The advanced training focuses on reducing emissions and other environmental risks.

Sustainability professionals including environmental managers and supply chain leaders benefit from this training to control how a supply chain and its suppliers impact the local environment.

Supply chain certification FAQ

Find answers to any remaining supply chain certification questions below. We address common questions surrounding the importance, costs, and best certifications in supply chain management.

What is the best supply chain certification?

Determining the "best" supply chain certification depends on individual career goals, industry focus, and geographical location. Always research each certification's curriculum, scope of focus, relevance to your career path, and industry recognition to determine the best fit for your goals.

Is earning a supply chain certification worth it?

Earning a supply chain certification is worth it for professionals looking to advance their careers. They validate expertise, enhance credibility, and open up new opportunities for career growth. They also demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which are often highly valued by employers in the competitive job market.

How much does the CPIM certification cost?

The cost of the CPIM certification varies depending on factors such as membership status, exam format, and study materials. Typically, the certification exam fee ranges from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. There may also be additional costs for optional extra study materials, training courses, and exam retakes, so be sure to budget accordingly when pursuing this certification.

How do I know if a company’s supply chain is sustainable?

Assess a company’s sourcing practices, environmental impact, and social responsibility initiatives to determine whether their supply chain is sustainable. You can also look for certifications like FSC, Rainforest Alliance, or ISO 14001, which represent adherence to environmental, social, and economic standards.

Additional resources

Read more about sustainable sourcing practices and ethical supply chains with resources from the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. Discover case studies and best practices for sustainable supply chain management from the World Economic Forum. Access tools, guides, and training resources on sustainable procurement and supplier diversity from the Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council.