CSE – Your path to certified sustainability
CSE (Certified Sustainable Economics) certification is a holistic approach to assessing and improving the sustainability of your company. The standard covers all relevant areas – from environmental protection and social responsibility to ethical business practices. With CSE, you rely on a future-oriented standard that harmonizes ecological, social and economic aspects – for sustainable corporate success in harmony with people and the environment.

Structure of the CSE standard
Systemic requirements: The CSE standard is based on the process-oriented criteria of ISO 14001:2015. This standard provides the foundation for the systematic development of a sustainability management system. The aim is not only to meet minimum requirements, but also to achieve ambitious sustainability targets.
Minimum requirements: These form the core of CSE certification and comprise absolute criteria in the areas of ecology, social affairs and economy. They are divided into different categories to ensure a clear structure.
Company-specific sustainability targets: Based on the minimum requirements, each company sets at least three of its own targets from at least two sustainability dimensions. These are continuously monitored and replaced by new targets once they have been achieved.
Criteria
If your company meets the following minimum requirements, it has a good chance of achieving CSE certification. These criteria form the basis for holistic corporate responsibility:
Forward-looking business model: As a CSE company, you set standards. Your products and services create real added value for the environment and society. With a philosophy based on sufficiency, efficiency and consistency, you actively shape a sustainable future.
Exemplary environmental protection: Conserving resources is a top priority for you. You use innovative strategies to optimize your consumption of energy, water and raw materials. As a pioneer in climate protection, you set a good example and achieve climate neutrality – a clear signal to customers and partners.
Ethical finance: Show that business success and responsibility go hand in hand. Set new standards in financial management with fair salary structures, sustainable investments and ethical banking partnerships.
Fair partnerships: Your values do not end at the company’s borders. By promoting sustainability throughout the supply chain, you create a network of responsible partners and strengthen your market position.
Attractive working environment: Become a magnet for talent. With fair wages, equal opportunities and innovative work-life balance concepts, you can create a working environment in which your employees can develop to their full potential.
Integrity in the market: ethical business is your trademark. From product development to marketing – you prove that success and responsibility harmonize perfectly. Gain the trust of your customers through uncompromising integrity.
These minimum requirements are the starting point for your CSE certification. By meeting these criteria, you position your company as a pioneer of sustainable business. You not only create added value for the environment and society, but also secure your company’s long-term success. Set a strong example for responsible entrepreneurship and stand out clearly from the competition.
Download
download as PDF