
A sustainability manager at a mid-sized packaging company once put it like this:
“We didn’t get ISCC certified because we had to. We did it because we were tired of scrambling every time a customer asked about traceability or emissions.”
That story is becoming increasingly common.
As pressure builds for more transparent, accountable, and climate-conscious supply chains, understanding ISCC requirements is no longer optional. It is how companies stay relevant, reliable, and ready for what’s next.
Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or expanding into regulated markets, this guide breaks down what ISCC expects from your business and how to meet those standards without the overwhelm.
ISCC stands for International Sustainability and Carbon Certification. It is a globally recognized framework that helps companies verify the sustainability, traceability, and climate impact of their operations and products.
It applies across sectors like:
ISCC certification is not just about looking good. It enables companies to prove that their supply chain avoids deforestation, reduces emissions, and meets legal and ethical standards, especially when operating in the EU or other regulated markets.
Starting May 21, 2025, major ISCC updates will take effect. These include stricter rules for renewable fuels, recycled carbon materials, and documentation requirements.
Here are the essentials your business must meet to achieve and maintain ISCC certification:
Reducing emissions is central to ISCC EU.
To comply, companies must:
These requirements are based on the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) and enforced through Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/996.
ISCC-certified sites are subject to both annual internal audits and periodic external audits. These ensure that emissions are accurately calculated and supported by clear evidence.
ISCC requires complete transparency across your supply chain. You must be able to track:
Each transaction and flow must be documented and auditable.
If you cannot trace it, you cannot certify it.
ISCC covers more than carbon. It requires companies to meet strict environmental and social safeguards, including:
These criteria ensure ISCC-certified companies contribute positively to environmental protection and human rights.
There are three main ISCC systems. Choosing the right one ensures alignment with your industry and goals.
Mandatory for companies in the biofuel and renewable energy sectors within the European Union. It verifies compliance with RED III and provides access to EU markets.
A voluntary scheme designed for non-energy industries, including packaging, food, chemicals, and cosmetics. Ideal for companies aiming to meet circular economy goals and demonstrate traceability across global markets.
Tailored for aviation, this standard helps fuel producers and airlines comply with the ICAO’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation.
Effective May 21, 2025, ISCC will implement new requirements in response to global sustainability priorities. Key changes include:
Carboledger’s software is already configured to reflect these updates, so your team can stay compliant without manual tracking or last-minute catch-up.
Achieving certification requires effort. You need to manage:
Manual systems are difficult to scale, especially for growing operations or multi-site businesses.
That is why companies use platforms like Carboledger, which helps:
ISCC certification goes beyond ticking boxes. It lays the foundation for resilient, ethical, and transparent business practices.
Here is what it brings to your business:
ISCC certification is more than a document. It is proof that your company is building a supply chain that is traceable, ethical, and aligned with global climate goals.
As the 2025 updates approach, companies that act now will not only meet requirements, they will lead their industries forward.Ready to simplify your path to ISCC certification?
Carboledger can help you stay audit-ready, reduce manual effort, and make compliance a strategic advantage..
Disclaimer:
Carboledger Inc. is an independent software provider. References to ISCC or any other certification schemes in this article are made solely for informational and educational purposes. Carboledger is not affiliated with, certified by, or endorsed by ISCC System GmbH or any certification body. The content does not constitute certification advice or official guidance.

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