ESG Centered Podcast: Understanding BLab and Independent Verification Analysts
Introduction
Host: Red, an independent verification analyst.
Guest: June, a pioneering member of the team of independent verification analysts (IVAs).
Topic: Overview of BLab, B Corporations, and the role of independent verification analysts.
What is BLab?
BLab: An accreditation body that verifies company's impact and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance.
B Corporation (B Corp): For-profit companies with high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency across five areas: governance, workers, environment, community, and customers.
Key Tool: B Impact App, an online tool where companies can measure their ESG impact.
BLab's B Impact App
Function: Allows companies to quiz themselves and measure their impact in different areas of ESG.
Purpose: Helps companies understand and improve their ESG performance.
Partnership with BLab
Started: 2021
Goal: Address the growth of the ESG movement and reduce wait time for B Corp certification.
Role of IVAs:
Provide workforce to scale certification process.
Act as third-party to maintain integrity of certification process.
Responsibilities of IVAs
Primary Role: Assist potential B Corps in providing and verifying information on the B Impact App.
Process:
Review and verify accuracy of information provided by companies.
Ensure companies accurately present their ESG impact.
Interaction: Engaging with companies worldwide to understand their business practices and challenges.
Research: Conducting research on assigned companies' industries to better understand evaluation requirements.
Diversity and Inclusion in the IVA Team
Team Composition: Inclusive and diverse workforce with multilingual capabilities.
Languages Spoken: Spanish, Portuguese, French, Russian, Chinese, and English among others.
Inclusivity: Team includes people with disabilities and individuals from marginalized communities.
Expansion and Evolution
Growth: Expanded from initial verification to entire certification process, including scoping, evaluation, and recertification.
New Company: Formation of Toer to house all IVAs and design audit and certification-centric work processes.
ISO Process: Aiming to meet/exceed international certification requirements to enhance credibility and profile in ESG space.
Opportunities and Challenges for IVAs
Favorite Aspects: Flexibility in time management and the appreciation of diverse business models and cultures.
Challenges: Adjusting to time zones and constantly learning about different industries.
Call to Action
For Companies: Interested in B Corp certification? Log in to B Impact Assessment App at bimpactassessment.net to measure your impact and potentially become a B Corp.
For Individuals: Interested in joining as an IVA? Watch for recruitment advertisements on job boards and the company's website.
Conclusion
Guest's Remarks: June emphasizes the rewarding journey and opportunities for personal and professional growth in the ESG space.
Host's Closing Notes: Red encourages listeners to stay tuned for more episodes and thanks everyone for being part of the journey.