The BioDiversity Add-on certification is a supplementary standard of GLOBALG.A.P. that supports the systematic management of biodiversity in crop production.
It operates as a farm assurance tool, helping producers document the practices they implement to protect ecosystems, manage soil, and enhance environmental compliance.
The BioDiversity Add-on improves the credibility of producers toward buyers, retailers, and supply chain stakeholders, who increasingly require evidence of responsible and sustainable agricultural production.
What is the BioDiversity Add-on and what is its purpose?
The BioDiversity Add-on is a voluntary and science-based standard that helps farms monitor, enhance, and protect key aspects of biodiversity.
Its purpose is to transform biodiversity management from a general environmental intention into a structured and documented practice at the farm level.
Within the framework of sustainable agriculture, the standard contributes to:
At the same time, it provides guidance for developing a comprehensive biodiversity action plan.
Scope and prerequisites in combination with GLOBALG.A.P. IFA
The BioDiversity Add-on is designed to be implemented in combination with the Integrated Farm Assurance (IFA) standard of GLOBALG.A.P., mainly within crop production, particularly fruits and vegetables.
Its implementation requires prior certification or participation in GLOBALG.A.P. IFA, as the add-on does not function as a fully standalone scheme.
It is addressed to individual producers and producer groups who wish to objectively demonstrate the implementation of biodiversity protection practices.
The assessment is conducted alongside the IFA audit, allowing the add-on requirements to be integrated into an already recognized evaluation process.
Core principles and environmental benefits
The BioDiversity Add-on is based on the principle that agricultural production can operate more effectively when it protects and enhances the surrounding natural environment.
Proper biodiversity management contributes to:
For producers, this can result in more resilient production systems and better adaptation to environmental pressures. Strengthening natural ecosystem functions not only has environmental value but also supports production stability.
Benefits for producers, buyers, and the supply chain
The certification enables producers to differentiate themselves through a structured and verifiable approach to biodiversity management.
For buyers, retailers, and supply chain stakeholders, the BioDiversity Add-on serves as a verification tool confirming that specific practices are implemented, rather than relying on general environmental claims.
It may also support corporate social responsibility commitments and sustainability requirements set by clients or commercial partners. In markets where environmental evidence is increasingly important, this certification can enhance commercial credibility and positioning.
Certification process and audit stages
The certification process includes preparation, registration, self-assessment, and inspection by an independent certification body.
Initially, the producer or producer group confirms eligibility and ensures that the existing GLOBALG.A.P. IFA certification can be combined with the add-on.
This is followed by a self-assessment to evaluate current practices against the standard’s requirements.
The official audit then assesses documentation, implementation practices, and the actual conditions at the farm. Independent certification bodies evaluate whether the requirements are effectively applied.
Requirements and compliance criteria (Farm Assurance)
The assessment is based on specific Points and Criteria (P&Cs) related to biodiversity management at the farm level.
Requirements are divided into Major Must and Minor Must, with:
A central element of the assessment is the existence and implementation of a biodiversity action plan, documenting practices, measures taken, and progress monitoring.
Biodiversity action plan and implementation measures
The biodiversity action plan is a key implementation tool of the standard. It is not merely a formal document but a practical plan linking requirements to concrete farm actions.
It may include measures for:
Monitoring biodiversity indicators is also required to demonstrate that actions are effectively implemented and evaluated.
Inspection process, validity, and annual reassessments
The BioDiversity Add-on audit is conducted annually and combined with the IFA assessment, ensuring a consistent and integrated evaluation process.
At each reassessment, it is verified whether:
This ensures that certification functions as a continuous monitoring mechanism rather than a one-time compliance statement.
Preparation and required documentation
Proper preparation begins with annual self-assessment and the organization of relevant records.
Producers or producer groups should maintain documentation for:
The designation of a responsible person for biodiversity management and appropriate staff training are also important to ensure effective implementation.
Certification cost and influencing factors
Certification cost depends on factors such as:
It typically includes certification body services and applicable GLOBALG.A.P.-related fees.
An initial scope evaluation helps determine the required audit time and avoid uncertainties before starting the process.
Integration with other standards and sustainability programs
The BioDiversity Add-on can be strategically combined with other GLOBALG.A.P. standards and add-ons, such as IFA, SPRING, and other sustainability schemes.
This integrated approach helps producers manage compliance more efficiently while supporting broader sustainability objectives such as the EU Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals, enhancing both environmental performance and market positioning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact for BioDiversity Add-on Certification
If you are interested in BioDiversity Add-on certification, please contact Q-CERT.
| Audit Information & Expectations | Application Form |
|---|---|
| F-2711 | F-2712.OP1, F-2713.OP2 |