Section outline

  • This short course introduces Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) and their significant role in sustainable production, international trade, and market access. It explores how VSS are used to mitigate the environmental impacts of production and, in some cases, the social and economic impacts that influence long-term economic growth and sustainable development. By addressing environmental, economic, and social dimensions, VSS can contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the broader sustainable development agenda.

    The course also examines the growing integration of VSS into trade policy, free trade agreements, public procurement, and sustainability due diligence frameworks, highlighting the challenges and opportunities they present for developing countries, as well as the supporting role of the United Nations Forum on Sustainability Standards (UNFSS).

    The course aims to deepen delegates' understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with VSS and their practical application. As tools to support sustainable development, VSS can improve market access and help producers and countries participate more effectively in sustainable global markets.

    However, implementing VSS can generate additional costs for producers. At the same time, trade policies are increasingly incorporating VSS, and these standards are exerting greater influence on market access and trade flows.

    At the end of this course, delegates will have gained knowledge of:

    • Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) and their role as important market tools for demonstrating environmental and, to a lesser extent, social and economic sustainability performance.
    • How VSS can enhance market access, competitiveness, export opportunities, and potentially generate price premiums for certified products.
    • How VSS can contribute to the achievement of multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
    • How governments are increasingly incorporating VSS into trade policy, free trade agreements, public procurement, and sustainability due diligence frameworks.
    • The implementation challenges that are associated with VSS, including compliance costs, fair revenue distribution, and living income, and their implications for developing countries.