In this period of "permacrisis," characterized by unprecedented environmental and social challenges, a change in approach in the business world has become imperative.
B Lab Switzerland, alongside the global B Corp movement, is at the forefront of this transformation, embodying the shift from individualism to interdependence, crucial for our common future.
Switzerland stands out particularly with 130 certified B Corps, representing the highest rate of participation per capita in the world. Globally, there are over 8,500 B Corps spread across 80 countries and covering 150 sectors; this growing movement demonstrates that another model of business is not only possible but also prosperous. B Corps illustrate a crucial transition: the days when companies prioritized shareholder value over human and natural capital are coming to an end. This change marks a turning point, where employee attraction and retention, access to investments, and access to strategic partnerships become key indicators as market entry conditions evolve. Companies that embrace this transformation will fully reap the benefits of this new era.
In this context, the B Corp movement is more visible than ever. But more than just a visible sign, it is a movement of companies leaving a positive footprint and improving to be the best for the world. In fact, over 95% of companies choose to recertify, and among these, 63% have noted a significant improvement in their social and environmental impact performance, proving that obtaining certification is only the beginning of an adventure of innovation and sustainable commitment.
To close this month of B Corps with panache, let's celebrate their commitment to a better world and draw inspiration from their leadership to navigate towards a more desirable future. We also want to highlight the intervention of Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin on March 11, 2024, during which he highlighted B Corps as examples to follow to promote an economy that is both inclusive and regenerative.
Impacts and Evolutions of B Corps in Switzerland: Summary
Towards a Sustainable Economy: Commitment and Action
The B Corp movement goes beyond mere claims of change: it concretely manifests it through tangible actions. B Corp certifications transcend financial benefits to reach high standards of social and environmental performance. In Switzerland, companies from various sectors demonstrate how different industries can have a positive impact on the planet and society:
Ricola, with its Swiss heritage, reinvents the herbal remedy industry with sustainable agricultural practices. Cultivating 100% of its herbs sustainably, it preserves Swiss alpine ecosystems and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to environmental preservation and responsible agriculture.
Koa revolutionizes the cocoa industry by valorizing underutilized fruit pulp. By recycling 800 tons of cocoa pulp, it contributes to reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, Koa commits to donating $1.6 million to smallholder farmers by June 2025 and creating 370 jobs in its factories in West Africa, thus stimulating the local economy and improving farmers' incomes.
« At Koa, we contribute to the 2030 development goals by valorizing previously overlooked cocoa pulp and transforming it into delicious treats. In doing so, we increase the incomes of small-scale farmers in West Africa, create decent jobs in rural areas of Ghana, and promote responsible production and consumption by using cocoa pulp, thus reducing food waste. In this way, we contribute to decarbonizing the cocoa value chain and combating climate change. That's why we're proud to be part of the B Corp movement, as we believe these goals are only achievable through partnerships with organizations and individuals who share the same values. »
Anian Schreiber, CEO and Co-founder of Koa
Source : Koa
L'Occitane en Provence is committed to cultivating the essence of sustainability in its commercial practices. Traceability of raw materials down to the plant level is a priority, with over 80% of raw material volumes now traceable back to the country of origin of the plant, compared to just 12% in 2020. This approach perfectly reflects the pursuit of quality and authenticity that characterizes the identity of L'Occitane en Provence, thereby strengthening its position as a leader in the sustainable beauty products industry.
Benjie is committed to revolutionizing the shoe industry, with 89% of its models exceeding European standards for durability and toxicity. By innovatively incorporating recycled soles, Benjie redefines fashion for a more ecological future, thereby extending the lifecycle of its products and reducing waste.
Under new management since 2020, Biscuits Agathe is firmly committed to sustainability. With over 80% of their raw materials sourced from Switzerland, the majority of which come from within a 100 km radius of the factory, the company significantly reduces its carbon footprint. Additionally, by harnessing the heat from the ovens to warm the premises, Biscuits Agathe optimizes its energy practices, thus contributing to a more environmentally friendly production process.
Raiffeisen Région Genève Rhône is committed to financial sustainability by measuring CO2 emissions associated with financing according to the standards of the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), thus adopting a proactive approach to reduce carbon footprint.
« At Raiffeisen Région Genève Rhône,, our B Corp certification is not just a label; it's the embodiment of our commitment to being a positive force in the community. We firmly believe that, as a cooperative bank, our role extends beyond financial services: it's about building a more inclusive and sustainable economy. Adopting and maintaining B Corp standards allows us to measure our impact on our clients, our employees, and the environment, ensuring that our actions contribute to a better future for all. »
Hervé Broch, President of the Board, Raiffeisen Région Genève Rhône
BG CO-CREATIVE STRATEGY, drawing on decades of experience, is redefining communication and branding with a responsible approach. By systematically integrating sustainability dimensions during strategic reviews with clients, BG has achieved a 90% rate since 2023.
Planted has set out to revolutionize the protein value chain by offering plant-based meats labeled as clean. Each product is sustainably sourced, with full traceability ensuring fair wages for all involved in its production.
YASAI is committed to promoting sustainable and local urban agriculture. Through vertical production, they reduce transport emissions and, with full visibility into their supply chain, guarantee fair compensation to local producers, while offering a yield 200 times higher per square meter and saving 95% of freshwater.
Source : YASAI
ViCAFE is committed to ensuring a transparent value chain and supporting farmers facing challenges related to climate change. By hosting the B Lab Zurich ecosystem for our first B Corps Month gathering, ViCAFE underscored this commitment by organizing the event on the same day they announced their B Corp certification! By shortening supply chains and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, ViCAFE is paving the way towards a fairer and more environmentally friendly coffee future, while actively contributing to positive change initiatives with ViFOUNDATION.
Inovacomm, specialized in personalized object development, is committed to enhancing its environmental impact by promoting the use of recycled or certified organic materials in its supply chain. In 2021, nearly 42% of their revenue came from products made from these environmentally friendly materials. This proportion has significantly increased to reach 76% in 2023, demonstrating a growing commitment to sustainability.
*GRS (Global Recycled Standard), GOTS, FSC, OEKO-TEX, TC shipment (document ensuring that the material is indeed organic or recycled).
Piguet Galland aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1, 2 & 3) by 40% by 2027 compared to 2019. By aligning its CO2eq emissions reduction goal with the 1.5°C trajectory of the Paris Agreement, the company demonstrates its commitment to combating climate change. This approach illustrates Piguet Galland's willingness to adopt a responsible and sustainable approach to its business.
23bis is committed to the well-being of its employees and innovation. With a 4-day workweek paid for 5 days, the balance between work and personal life is favored, thus stimulating creativity and motivation. Moreover, through 23bisocracy, governance is shared, offering employees the opportunity to participate in the company's development through circles with objectives and responsibilities aligned with the company's values, thereby strengthening cohesion and group strength.
Écoline is the first school and daycare center in Switzerland to obtain B Corp certification, and the first Reggio Emilia-inspired school in Switzerland. Écoline shareholders do not receive dividends, and more than 50% of families benefit from an individualized rate based on their income and personal situation. Across all its activities - school, daycare, after-school care, and holiday camps - children have daily exposure to nature and are educated on topics such as sustainability, inclusion, and diversity.
Légumes Perchés is committed to promoting experiential education through its "From Seed to Plate" program. Each year, approximately 600 young citizens are sensitized to healthy and local eating. Workshops aim to awaken children and teachers to the benefits of gardening and tasting seasonal harvests. This initiative seamlessly integrates into the educational curriculum, thus reinforcing the commitment to conscious eating and education on sustainable development.
Source : LinkedIn – Légumes Perchés
The transition to a more inclusive and sustainable economy is also highlighted by companies' engagement in initiatives such as the Swiss Triple Impact program, which aims to align business activities with the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The B Lab Switzerland Foundation plays a key role as a partner of the ARE in implementing the federal strategy of Agenda 2030, since 2019, to integrate and significantly involve private sector companies.
A Call to Action: Join the Movement
During this B Corps Month, we celebrate not only achievements but also the imperative to act with boldness and collaboration. B Lab Switzerland invites all companies to consider B Corp certification as a step towards a responsible and prosperous future. The path is clear, the tools are available, and the community is ready to welcome new members on this journey towards lasting positive impact.
« The B Corp movement aspires to a balance between human well-being, profits, and the preservation of our planet, setting ambitious goals to address the challenges of our time. At the heart of our approach, collaboration across different sectors is essential; it is the foundation of our aspiration for a better future. Engaging with businesses and the economy must go hand in hand with our commitment to policymakers, to ensure coordinated systemic change at a pace that matches the urgency of the issues. »
Jonathan Normand, Executive Director of B Lab Suisse
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