Who is it for?

REDcert and ISCC are two certification schemes for the sustainable production of biomass (e.g. flax, maize) and biofuels (e.g. vegetable oils, ethanol). They are aimed at all participants in the production chain, from the sourcing of raw materials, through their processing, to the placing of the finished product on the market. Entities covered by REDcert / ISCC include:

• farms where raw materials for fuel purposes are sourced,
• collection and storage points for the aforementioned raw materials,
• plants processing raw materials for biofuels,
• producers of energy generated from biofuels,
• companies involved in the trade and distribution of biomass or biofuels.

Information about the standard

The production of energy from biofuels (derived from biomass) is a modern trend in economic development, driven by concern for the natural environment and aimed at protecting its non-renewable resources. In view of this positive trend, it has become necessary to establish standards and procedures for the entire process of biomass and biofuel production and distribution, which enable environmentally sustainable operations that respect the rights of the workers involved.

REDcert (Renewable Energy Directive Certification) and ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) are two of the most popular certification schemes on the Polish market for the sustainable production of biomass and biofuels. REDcert is based on Directive 2009/28/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (RED). It constitutes the certification standard for the biofuel and biomass production chain within the European Union. ISCC meets all the requirements of Directive 2009/28/EC, but has a global scope (it is recognised worldwide).

The REDcert and ISCC schemes are based on the following principles:

• biomass must not come from biodiverse land,
• biomass production must be carried out in accordance with the principles of environmental responsibility – applying good agricultural practices, protecting soil, water and air,
• workers involved in the production of biomass and biofuels must be properly trained and protected against potential hazards,
• the company must implement good management practices,
• the production of biomass and biofuels must comply with human rights, labour law and agricultural law, as well as local and national legislation and international agreements.

Benefits of implementation

Holding a REDcert or ISCC certificate is now a key requirement for participation in the biomass production chain for energy purposes, as well as for the production and supply of biofuels. It confirms compliance with legal requirements regarding sustainable production and social sustainability. For potential customers, REDcert and ISCC certificates are irrefutable proof that a company adheres to the highest standards and is therefore able to supply a product of the highest quality.

By implementing the REDcert or ISCC system, a company achieves objectives such as:

• reducing greenhouse gas emissions,
• sustainable land management,
• protection of the natural biosphere,
• protection of human and workers’ rights,
• operational safety.

A company that obtains REDcert or ISCC certification builds an image as a business committed to environmental protection. This provides it with broader opportunities for growth, a competitive advantage in the domestic market and the ability to operate in international markets.