Harmonisation and monitoring platform for certification schemes and labels to advance the sustainability of bio-based systems

The HARMONITOR project will improve the effectiveness of certification schemes and labels (CSLs) in different sectors of the EU Bioeconomy and therewith strengthen their use as a co-regulation instrument. Effective and robust CSLs can cope with some of the difficulties that public regulation faces and fill in policy gaps. The HARMONITOR project will also establish and test a participative review platform concept that allows CSLs to find commonalities and cooperation when operating in bio-based value chains within and across EU borders. This platform is based on the innovative ‘Sustainability Certification Tools’ proposed by the Horizon 2020 project STAR-ProBio to promote continuous improvement of CSLs and continuous knowledge of these dynamic developments by market actors.

The specific objectives of the HARMONITOR project are:

1. To establish a review platform to capture the dynamic development of CSLs and encourage their harmonisation and continuous improvement through the exchange of information and promotion of best practices.

2. To provide quantitative, transparent data on bio-based value chains through analysis and dissemination of trade flows (certified and non-certified), and quantification of direct and indirect costs and benefits of certification.

3. To review and compare performance requirements and assurance and governance systems of CSLs.

4. To develop and apply a monitoring system on the effectiveness and robustness of CSLs.

5. To improve the understanding of the opportunities and limitations of using CSLs in co-regulation.

The HARMONITOR approach aims to achieve the following outcomes:

• Enhanced transparency and traceability of environmental impacts along value chains through improved CSLs.

• Higher levels of effectiveness and robustness of CSLs through systematic monitoring.

• Increased awareness of trade flows and their impacts.

• Possible use of CSLs as a co-regulation instrument as part of the EU Bioeconomy policy framework.