Become a recognised GGL Certification Body
Help deliver independent assurance for sustainable biomass.GGL works with competent, impartial and accredited Certification Bodies to independently assess organisations against the GGL certification requirements. Together, we support transparent, traceable and reliable biomass supply chains from origination through to conversion into energy.
Applications for new Certification Bodies are currently suspended.
GGL is temporarily not accepting new applications for Certification Body recognition. This measure allows us to focus on supporting existing Certification Bodies, ongoing scheme development and the implementation of the latest GGL certification requirements.
We expect to reopen applications on 1 October 2026. In the meantime, you are welcome to contact the GGL team if you would like to discuss future recognition or receive updates on the application process.
Deliver independent assurance
Certification Bodies are fundamental to the integrity of the GGL certification scheme. As an approved Certification Body, you independently verify compliance with the applicable GGL requirements and support confidence in sustainable biomass across international supply chains.
Recognition allows you to:
- Provide certification services under the GGL scheme.
- Support organisations in demonstrating compliance with recognised sustainability requirements.
- Contribute to transparent and traceable biomass supply chains.
- Join an international network of recognised Certification Bodies.
What GGL looks for
The GGL Foundation recognises Certification Bodies that demonstrate the competence, capacity and impartiality required to perform certification activities under the GGL scheme.
Through the recognition and supervision of Certification Bodies, GGL seeks to ensure that:
- 01certification activities are carried out consistently and competently;
- 02certified organisations comply with the GGL sustainability and legality requirements; and
- 03stakeholders can have confidence in certification issued under the GGL scheme.
Before applying
To become recognised by GGL, a Certification Body must:
demonstrate the competence and capacity to perform certification activities;
apply for ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation with the applicable GGL scope(s);
work with a national accreditation body that is a member of the EA MLA or IAF;
implement the GGL Standards and Regulation within its management system; and
be prepared to enter into the GGL Certification Body Agreement upon approval.
How to become recognised
recognition
Submit a request to the GGL Foundation to initiate the eligibility procedure.
Following confirmation from GGL, complete the application form and provide the required supporting documentation.
Apply for ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation with the applicable GGL scope(s).
Upon approval, sign the GGL Certification Body Agreement and complete the registration process.
Complete the accreditation process within nine months of your application and obtain a positive recommendation from your accreditation body.
As a recognised Certification Body
Recognised Certification Bodies are expected to:
- 01conduct certification and surveillance audits;
- 02appoint a qualified contact person for communication with GGL;
- 03ensure auditors are appropriately qualified for the applicable certification scopes;
- 04communicate relevant scheme updates to affiliated participants;
- 05maintain impartiality and manage conflicts of interest; and
- 06cooperate with GGL oversight and monitoring activities.
Ongoing responsibilities
Recognition is maintained through continued compliance with the GGL requirements.
Recognised Certification Bodies are expected to:
maintain their accreditation;
operate an effective management system;
retain certification records;
protect confidential information;
cooperate with GGL monitoring activities; and
promptly notify GGL of relevant certification activities and changes affecting participants.
Resources
Everything needed to apply:
Frequently Asked Questions
Which accreditation is required?
Which GGL scopes can we apply for?
Can we begin audits before accreditation is complete?
How long does recognition take?
What training does GGL provide?
How do we obtain access to GGLedger?