The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute has launched a new guidance program for manufacturers and designers looking to create and certify products according to the Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard. Cradle to Cradle Certified Foundations is a free, self-paced program that helps participants understand what's needed to get on the path toward certification.
Comprised of four videos along with accompanying worksheets and supplemental resources, the course walks participants through a step-by-step process for collecting key information in preparation to apply for Basic Level certification.
"Part of our work supporting the development of safe, healthy products and materials for the circular economy is to create learning pathways like the new Foundations program, to help innovative companies move their products further along the path of continuous improvement," stated Lewis Perkins, president of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. "The Foundations Program aims to alleviate barriers to getting started on this path. By helping manufacturers through the initial certification process, we hope to broaden access to certification for a greater number of manufacturers, and, ultimately, expand the pipeline of new products achieving certification across all industries."
The Foundations program offers tools and tips for beginning the certification process at a lower cost while directly engaging with the supply chain to complete Basic level requirements. Step-by-step worksheets accompany the videos, guiding participants through the process of collecting key information, along with supporting documentation such as a Bill of Materials and Supplier Declaration forms, and establishing baselines on energy and carbon management, water stewardship and social fairness.