Every child knows about social and ecological standards from seals on organic milk or the RUGMARK label under the carpet.

Standards lead to more efficient, environmentally safer and more socially equitable production conditions around the globe. By purchasing certified products that have been produced to social and ecological standards, consumers raise the chances of sustainable development.

Under conditions of global competition, minimum standards for employees and the environment are frequently ignored. Compliance with international labour law or environmental regulations often overstretches the capabilities of national legislators. On the other hand, the private sector is increasingly motivated and prepared to fulfil standards voluntarily. 

The introduction of standards is already well underway in many industries. They always begin with a social negotiation process involving all stakeholders. This holds for corporate codes of conduct as well as ecological, fair trade and sustainable forestry certificates. The underlying intention is always to find a compromise that is ecologically responsible, socially just and economically viable. So standards are a successful development-policy instrument, because they translate the vision of sustainable development into practical steps that can be measured.