Voluntary sustainability standards and how they interrelate to sustainable production, international trade and market access
This course introduces voluntary sustainability standards and their significant role in sustainable production, international trade and market access. It explores how voluntary sustainability standards are used to mitigate the environmental impacts of production and, in some cases, the economic and social impacts that influence long-term economic growth and sustainable development. By addressing the environmental, economic and social dimensions, the use of voluntary sustainability standards can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the broader sustainable development agenda. The course also examines the increasing integration of voluntary sustainability standards into trade policy, free trade agreements, public procurement and sustainability due diligence frameworks, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for developing countries; and the supporting role of the United Nations Forum on Sustainability Standards. The aim of the course is to deepen understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with voluntary sustainability standards and their practical application. As tools with which to support sustainable development, voluntary sustainability standards can improve market access and help producers and countries participate more effectively in sustainable global markets. Trade policies are increasingly incorporating such standards and such standards are exerting greater influence on market access and trade flows. However, implementing such standards can generate additional costs for producers.
At the end of this course, delegates will have gained knowledge of:
- Voluntary sustainability standards and their role as important market tools with which to demonstrate environmental and, to a lesser extent, social and economic sustainability performance
- How voluntary sustainability standards can enhance market access, competitiveness and export opportunities and, potentially, generate price premiums for certified products
- How voluntary sustainability standards can contribute to the achievement of many of the Sustainable Development Goals
- How Governments are increasingly incorporating voluntary sustainability standards into trade policy, free trade agreements, public procurement and sustainability due diligence frameworks
- The implementation challenges associated with voluntary sustainability standards, including compliance costs, fair revenue distribution and living income, along with the implications for developing countries
