EcoVadis series #3: Aligning your sustainability management system with EcoVadis

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In the third episode of our EcoVadis series, we focus on how to align your sustainability management system with the EcoVadis methodology. While the previous episodes introduced what EcoVadis is and how the EcoVadis assessment works, this instalment explains how to perform well—by structuring your policies, actions, and reporting in line with EcoVadis expectations. As a documentation-based assessment, your EcoVadis score depends on how well you demonstrate your company’s sustainability efforts. We break down what strong documentation looks like and how to be strategic with your submissions. Whether you’re aiming for your first EcoVadis rating or working towards an EcoVadis platinum medal, this episode helps you build a more impactful and credible sustainability approach. Stay tuned as we help you turn your sustainability efforts into measurable, reportable results.

Read more about how EcoVadis fits into your sustainability management in our new guide. Discover our sustainability blog for further EcoVadis and sustainability topics.

Welcome back everyone to the EcoVadis series. Now it’s time for episode three, which focuses on your sustainability management system. One of the biggest questions I get from all our clients is: how do I document all these elements in order to respond to the EcoVadis assessment — in other words, your sustainability management system?

Well, stick with us. Stephanie is going to have the answer to that right now.

In our last episode, we talked about how the EcoVadis assessment is entirely document-based. This means that every answer in your questionnaire needs to be backed up with recent and relevant documentation. And with only 55 new documents allowed per assessment, you’ll need to be strategic about what you submit.

The good news is that with each assessment, you can build on the documents you’ve already provided in previous years. Those 55 new documents make it easier to strengthen your case and improve your score over time, and of course, showcase the improvements you’ve made.

Now let’s talk about alignment, because to do well in the assessment, you need to understand exactly what EcoVadis is looking for.

The assessment focuses on three key elements: policies, actions, and reporting.

So, what does that actually mean? Let’s start with policies. EcoVadis wants to see your company’s formal sustainability objectives — the commitments you make to reduce your environmental impact, improve labour and human rights outcomes, and ensure ethical business practices.

A strong policy isn’t just a general statement. It should include real, measurable targets — things like reducing carbon emissions by 30% by 2030 or committing to ensure all your workers are paid a living wage.

These specific goals show that your company isn’t just talking about sustainability, but that you’re taking it seriously and have timebound goals that will guide your strategy.

Then, onto actions — the steps your business is taking to meet its sustainability goals. EcoVadis wants to see how your commitments translate into real, on-the-ground action.

You might be wondering why all this documentation matters so much.

Well, beyond just the EcoVadis assessment, having clear and structured sustainability documentation is actually a huge advantage for your business.

Regularly reviewing your policies ensures they stay relevant and strong. Reporting helps maintain transparency, keeps key stakeholders informed, and allows for continuous improvement year after year.

Thank you, Stephanie, once again for explaining how to build on your sustainability management system.

Again, the three key components from this episode are how to build on policies, your measures, and your reporting.

After all, it’s not a tick-box exercise — it’s a journey.

And this leads us into the next episode: how to build on that journey towards Platinum. Stick with us for the next episode.