Control Union – Certification

CO₂-Performance Ladder

The CO₂-Performance Ladder is a Dutch sustainability instrument that assists companies and governments to structurally reduce their CO₂ emissions. It provides a framework for managing an organisation’s CO₂ footprint and gaining a competitive advantage in tenders. Managed by the Stichting Klimaatvriendelijk Aanbesteden & Ondernemen (SKAO), Control Union Certifications provides certification for the CO₂-Performance Ladder, guiding organisations through the application process.

Control Union – Certification

    What is the CO₂-Performance Ladder?

    This CO₂ management system is structured across five levels. Levels one to three focus on an organisation’s operations, while levels four and five extend to the supply chain. The framework is built on four perspectives: Insight, Reduction, Transparency, and Participation. Certification offers a tangible advantage in tenders, often in the form of a discount on the registration price, which rewards a lower emission behaviour. This makes sustainability a demonstrable business asset.

    Why choose Control Union as your certification partner?

    • Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.

    • We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.

    • Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.

    Scopes

    The CO2-Performance Ladder exists of the following scopes:

    • CO₂-Performance Ladder 3.1 – Level 1-3

    • CO₂-Performance Ladder 3.1 – Level 4-5

    • CO₂-Performance Ladder 4.0 – Scope 1

    • CO₂-Performance Ladder 4.0 – Scope 2

    • CO₂-Performance Ladder 4.0 – Scope 3

    Features of CO₂-Performance Ladder

    Control Union – Certification
    1.

    Structured CO₂ reduction

    A five-level system facilitates systematic improvement in carbon management and demonstrable emissions reduction.

    2.

    Competitive tendering advantage

    Certified companies gain a tangible award advantage, often through a discount on the registration price in tenders.

    3.

    Holistic improvement framework

    Based on four pillars: Insight into energy use, Ambitious reduction targets, Transparency, and Participation in initiatives.

    4.

    Supply chain & sector impact

    Higher levels expand focus beyond internal operations (scope 1 and 2) to include supply chain and sector emissions (scope 3).

    5.

    European-wide recognition

    Used across several European countries and aligned with EU climate directives, enhancing international credibility.

    Control Union – Certifications
    Years of experience in construction, landscaping, and infrastructure make us your trusted partner in safety and quality – ready for every certification challenge.
    Irene van Peperstraten – Control Union Certifications

    This is how certification with Control Union works

    In outline, we go through these 6 steps. We’ll tell you all about it at the start of the project.

    Applying for certification

    Apply by using the contact details at the bottom of this page

    Determining scope of certification

    Together, we discuss the details and scope of your application. Which processes, products and/or locations would you like to have certified?

    Quotation & contract

    After establishing exact scopes and auditing times, you’ll receive our quote.

    After agreement, you may start the preparation phase.

    Audit planning, preparation, execution and reporting

    You will be assigned one of our qualified and independent auditors. We’ll reach out to you to check if you’re ready for the initial audit. If needed, we’ll provide additional information to help to prepare.

    Good to go? The initial audit is planned, carried out and reported.

    Review

    During the audit, we will assess if you meet the requirements. After that, we will confirm if you’ve fully complied, if there are things to improve, or if there are any non-conformities.

    Together, we will discuss our findings, plan of action and planning in case of non-conformities. In case your chosen program includes a logo, we will discuss this too.

    Receiving your certificate

    If all non-conformities are resolved and everything has been assessed positively, the certification decision follows.

    Depending on the type of certification:
    • you are allowed to trade using the certificate
    • you are executing the process according to the guidelines
    • you are allowed to name the certificate on your website
    Some certificates allow you to use the certificate’s logo. We will provide you with guidelines for this.

    The certification process does not end here, annual audits ensure consistent quality!

    Global coverage, local knowledge

    Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions.

    As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications?

    Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    Offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Proud colleagues
    Control Union – Certifications

    Request CO₂-Performance Ladder or discuss without obligation?

    We are here to help you. Get in touch! Please fill in the form below or call this number +31 (0) 38 42 60 120

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    Independent tailor-made services

    What makes you unique, we make demonstrable

    Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example, developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.

    Control Union - supply chain