EcoVadis ratings explained: How to improve your score
EcoVadis is one of the most widely used supplier sustainability rating platforms. Here's how the scoring works and what you can do to improve your rating.
EcoVadis is a third-party sustainability rating platform used by over 100,000 companies worldwide. If you supply to large companies in Europe, North America, or Asia, there's a good chance you will be asked to complete an EcoVadis assessment. Your score determines whether you remain on your buyer's approved supplier list.
How EcoVadis scoring works
EcoVadis scores companies on four themes:
Environment
~35% of total score
GHG emissions, energy, water, biodiversity, pollution
Labour & Human Rights
~30% of total score
Working conditions, health & safety, child/forced labour
Ethics
~20% of total score
Anti-corruption, anti-competitive practices, whistleblowing
Sustainable Procurement
~15% of total score
Supplier ESG management, responsible sourcing
Scores range from 0-100. Medals are awarded at the following thresholds:
How to improve your EcoVadis score
Write and publish your policies
High impactEcoVadis heavily weights written policies. Create an environmental policy, a human rights policy, an anti-corruption policy, and a supplier code of conduct. Make them publicly available on your website.
Measure and report your GHG emissions
High impactCalculate your Scope 1 and 2 emissions and include them in your EcoVadis submission. Consider third-party verification for higher scores.
Obtain relevant certifications
Medium impactISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 45001 (health & safety), and SA8000 (social accountability) all contribute positively to your EcoVadis score.
Implement a grievance mechanism
Medium impactA formal mechanism for employees and stakeholders to raise concerns demonstrates good governance and contributes to your Ethics score.
Assess your own suppliers
Medium impactDemonstrating that you conduct due diligence on your own supply chain contributes to your Sustainable Procurement score.
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Free EcoVadis preparation checklist
Download our guide to preparing for your first EcoVadis assessment.
See exactly where you stand before your EcoVadis assessment
ESG Stress Free maps your current policies, certifications, and emissions data directly to the four EcoVadis themes. You will see your readiness score, the gaps, and the specific actions that will have the most impact on your medal level.
No credit card required · Free trial available