“ THE JOURNEY TOWARDS B CORP CERTIFICATION WAS MORE THAN A CHECKLIST , IT WAS A TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE .”
OPINION
Becoming B Corp
Access All Areas Award-winning production company Method works with numerous clients including Tramlines ( cap . 40,000 ) and Truck ( 30,000 ) festivals . Method co-founder and director Will Holdoway recounts the journey of selfdiscovery and improvement that led to it gaining B Corp status
Embarking on the journey towards B Corp certification was more than just a milestone for us at Method . It represented a formalisation of our enduring commitment to sustainable and transparent business practices . Our motivation ran deep , fuelled not just by the desire for recognition , but by a genuine aspiration to shape a positive future . It wasn ’ t about comparisons or dwelling on the past ; it was about walking the talk and holding ourselves accountable for our actions .
The road to B Corp certification was undeniably challenging . As a small startup consultancy , we navigated the process with limited resources and a determination to meet the rigorous certification criteria . Gathering and analysing data to assess our social and environmental performance was a monumental task . James [ Dutton ] and I delved into countless resources , from government legislation to UN guidelines , to set internal goals and align our practices with industry best practices . It was a comprehensive review of our processes and procedures , a journey of selfdiscovery and improvement that started the very first day we incorporated and had these goals in mind .
While the live events industry has made strides in embracing B Corp certification , there ’ s still room for growth . We ’ ve witnessed a growing interest within our sector , and we wholeheartedly encourage others to join us on this journey . Beyond showcasing a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility , becoming a B Corp offers invaluable insights and opportunities for improvement . The B Corp impact assessment tool becomes a powerful asset of its own , enabling organisations to monitor and enhance their ESG framework .
For companies considering B Corp certification , our advice is simple : start by assessing your current practices and identifying areas for improvement . We ’ ve been doing this quarterly since our inception in August 2019 , and the Covid-19 pandemic provided us with ample time to reflect on this . We began by focusing on environmental goals , as they often entail the highest implementation costs and
“ THE JOURNEY TOWARDS B CORP CERTIFICATION WAS MORE THAN A CHECKLIST , IT WAS A TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE .”
require extensive coordination with your supply chain . A particularly supportive partner was our workspace provider FOR A , which was founded by Katrina Larkin of Big Chill fame .
Early solidification of these financial commitments in your P & L is crucial for driving your business towards meeting its ESG goals alongside commercial targets .
Will Holdoway
Following this , governance policymaking became a priority as we resumed operations post-Covid-19 . This keeps you on your toes about fulfilling your duties not just as an employee of the business but as a company director . In the past year , we ’ ve shifted our focus to the social aspect of the assessment . Although the costs may be less tangible , it requires significant forethought and planning to ensure that all policies and procedures align with legal frameworks and contracts . Much of this effort was driven by our decision to re-hire fulltime employees after the pandemic , as we wanted to ensure we could provide them with the most robust yet nurturing platform possible .
For us , the journey towards B Corp certification was more than a checklist ; it was a transformative experience that reshaped the ethos and direction of the company . It requires dedication , collaboration , and a willingness to embrace change . But the rewards far outweigh the challenges , as it empowers businesses to create a positive impact on society and the environment . Engage stakeholders , seek guidance , and stay committed to the journey . The benefits of becoming a B Corp extend far beyond the certification itself , paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future . We welcome anyone who wants to discuss their own journey with us .
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