Programme Owner
Anthesis Group
Anthesis guides clients to sustainable performance. We are the world’s leading purpose driven, digitally enabled, science-based activator.
With world-class expertise in science-based advisory, market-leading digital solutions, the development of high-quality carbon removal projects and purpose consulting, strategy and communication, Anthesis is uniquely positioned to manage risk and find value for our clients in their transformation journeys.
The Climate Activator Certification by Anthesis Group builds on more than two decades of leadership in climate action. Originally developed by Climate Neutral Group (CNG) – a pioneer in climate solutions since 2002 – the programme was designed to help organisations certify their operations, products, or services as climate neutral.
In 2022, CNG joined Anthesis Group, strengthening our shared ambition to drive credible and measurable climate impact.
Driven by a commitment to integrity and continuous improvement, the programme was enhanced in 2018 to align with the ISEAL Codes of Good Practice. This evolution responded to growing client demand for independent verification, increasing scrutiny of climate claims, and anticipated regulatory changes in the voluntary carbon market.
At Anthesis, we always champion reduction before offsetting. Our certification sets mandatory reduction targets in line with global climate goals and supports the shift towards more transparent and science-based climate action.
From the Climate Neutral Certification to the Climate Activator Standard
The Climate Neutral Certification was launched to enable organisations to take verified climate action across their operations, products, and services. Offsetting was the final step, allowing organisations to take full responsibility for their remaining emissions.
Since 2020, the programme has been aligned with the ISEAL Codes of Good Practice, reflecting:
- Rising client demand for independent verification,
- Increasing urgency of climate and nature issues, and
- Anticipated regulatory changes at European and voluntary carbon market level.
As a frontrunner in credible and transparent certification, we welcome the EU Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive and the forthcoming EU Green Claims Directive. Our Standard already requires measurable emissions reductions before any offsetting or public claims can be made, with mandatory targets fully aligned to global climate goals.
To remain aligned with new regulations, the certification has been renamed Climate Activator, accompanied by updated labels. A transition period is in place for existing clients to phase out previous “climate neutral” claims, with a deadline of 1 January 2026.