Control Union – Certification

SNK – Stichting Nationale Koolstofmarkt

SNK Stichting Nationale Koolstofmarkt is a Dutch initiative for certifying carbon reduction projects. It provides a transparent framework for organisations seeking to monetise CO2 reductions. Control Union offers assessment and certification services, guiding project owners through the SNK process to achieve credible, tradeable carbon certificates within a secure national system.

Control Union – Certification

    What is SNK?

    The SNK framework provides security for both project owners and certificate buyers through a two-phase system. At a project’s start, a validated certificate can be issued, allowing early market access. This certificate cannot be used for CO2 compensation claims.

    Only after an independent assessment confirms the carbon reduction has occurred, the status changes to a confirmed certificate. This ensures the credibility of all compensation claims. A 15% security buffer is also held back until after confirmation, reinforcing the system’s reliability.

    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.

    Features of SNK

    Control Union – Certification
    1.

    A Dutch national standard

    SNK is a certification scheme developed specifically for the Dutch market, providing a clear and reliable national standard.

    2.

    Two-phase certification

    The system distinguishes between validated certificates for early trading and confirmed certificates for final claims.

    3.

    Early market access

    Project owners can trade validated certificates at the start of a project, facilitating early investment and cash flow.

    4.

    Secure ‘Koolstofmarkt’

    A built-in 15% security buffer and a public register provide a secure and transparent framework for all parties.

    5.

    Credible CO2 compensation

    Only certificates for confirmed carbon reductions can be used, ensuring the integrity of CO2 compensation claims.

    Control Union – BIO energy & carbon
    CO₂ reduction even more valuable if it is measurable and verifiable.
    Leon Wagter – 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

    Request SNK or discuss certification without obligation?

    We are ready to assist you. Contact us using the form below or call us at +31 38 42 60 105

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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.

    Read more about our customised solutions
    Control Union - supply chain