Certification Process
How to Become GSTC Certified with UCSL
At UCSL, we pride ourselves on offering the approach to GSTC Certification, tailoring every step of the process to your unique needs. Our team combines premium expertise and localized insights to ensure a seamless, transparent, and well-supported journey from start to finish.
Explore the key stages of GSTC Certification and see how we make the process simple, effective, and aligned with your goals for sustainability.
Explore the key stages of GSTC Certification and see how we make the process simple, effective, and aligned with your goals for sustainability.
Certification Journey Step by Step
Start by setting up an introductory call with our team to receive all the necessary details and an Application Form tailored to your business needs and preferred language. The form gathers key information about your business, allowing us determine the scope of certification, audit duration, and costs. Following the application review, we prepare a detailed Commercial Offer and, upon your agreement, move to the certification contract and audit planning.
After signing the contract, you will receive our self-assessment checklist covering all required documentation for GSTC certification. This collaborative step engages your team, identifies areas for improvement, and ensures you are well-prepared for the next stages.
The optional preliminary assessment allows to evaluate your compliance with all 42 GSTC Criteria through detailed documentation review and an online or onsite audit (based on your preferences). This step concludes with a comprehensive report identifying gaps and areas for improvement, setting the foundation for certification readiness.
Application Submitting and Review
Self-Assessment
Pre-Assessment (optional)
The initial onsite audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your organization’s compliance with all GSTC Criteria. The audit includes site visits, interviews with personnel and suppliers, and a thorough assessment of your Sustainability Management System. You will receive a detailed report outlining the findings and your performance against all 42 GSTC Criteria.
Once all nonconformities have been resolved or if none were identified during the initial audit, your GSTC Certificate will be issued. The certificate is valid for three years.
Initial Audit
Certification Issuance
Certification Cycle
After receiving your certificate, the three-year certification cycle begins, requiring two annual surveillance audits and onsite recertification audit at the end of the three-year cycle.
Re-certification Audit
The re-certification audit is conducted onsite at the end of the certification cycle to evaluate continued compliance and renew the certification for another three years.
Certification Cycle
Annual surveillance audits validate ongoing compliance with GSTC Criteria and ensure sustained certification status. These audits involve sampling the organization’s conformity with GSTC Criteria. The mode of audit (online, onsite, or hybrid) is determined based on the results of comprehensive risk assessment.
Surveillance Audits
Certification Timelines
The journey to GSTC Certification typically takes 2–6 months, depending on your readiness, desired timeframes, and regional considerations.
At UCSL, we ensure seamless and efficient planning by leveraging our network of local auditors and resources to match your availability and preferences. We pay particular attention to managing all aspects of the process within agreed and optimal timelines, ensuring your certification journey stays on track and well-supported every step of the way.
At UCSL, we ensure seamless and efficient planning by leveraging our network of local auditors and resources to match your availability and preferences. We pay particular attention to managing all aspects of the process within agreed and optimal timelines, ensuring your certification journey stays on track and well-supported every step of the way.
Tailored Solutions & Details
While this provides a general overview of the certification process, detailed information about specific steps and processes tailored to your business operations and unique needs is available. Explore our dedicated pages designed for your case:
Every great journey begins with the first step!
We’re here to walk with you, making your certification process smooth and efficient.
