FLOCERT

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Fairtrade

FLOCERT is a global certification and verification body that ensures the compliance of organizations with Fairtrade International standards. It is one of the world's leading social auditing and certification bodies, primarily focusing on fair trade practices. FLOCERT operates in over 120 countries, providing services to a wide range of stakeholders, including producers, traders, and brands.

History

FLOCERT was established in 2003 as an independent certification body to support the mission of Fairtrade International. Its creation was driven by the need for a reliable and transparent certification system that could verify the adherence to fair trade standards. Over the years, FLOCERT has expanded its services and geographical reach, becoming a key player in the fair trade movement.

Services

FLOCERT offers a variety of services aimed at promoting fair trade and sustainable practices. These services include:

• Fairtrade Certification: FLOCERT certifies organizations against the Fairtrade Standards, ensuring that they meet the criteria for fair trade practices.
• Verification Services: Beyond certification, FLOCERT provides verification services to assess compliance with various social, economic, and environmental standards.
• Training and Capacity Building: FLOCERT offers training programs to help organizations understand and implement fair trade standards effectively.
• Supply Chain Audits: FLOCERT conducts supply chain audits to ensure transparency and traceability in the sourcing of fair trade products.

Certification Process

The certification process involves several steps:

1. Application: Organizations interested in certification submit an application to FLOCERT. 2. Initial Audit: FLOCERT conducts an initial audit to assess the organization's compliance with fair trade standards. 3. Corrective Actions: If non-compliances are found, the organization must take corrective actions to address them. 4. Certification Decision: Based on the audit results and corrective actions, FLOCERT makes a certification decision. 5. Surveillance Audits: Regular surveillance audits are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance.

Impact

FLOCERT's certification and verification services have a significant impact on promoting fair trade and sustainable practices. By ensuring compliance with fair trade standards, FLOCERT helps improve the livelihoods of producers, promote ethical business practices, and foster environmental sustainability.

Related Pages

• Fairtrade International
• Fair trade
• Fairtrade Standards
• Sustainable development
• Social auditing