Based impact data and principles from Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), we have identified 4 material classes. Unsustainable materials, like virgin plastics, are listed in category 4. Materials like recycled cotton or plastic are listed in category 1.

Can the product be recycled in readily available recycling bins or drop off points? Is the product mono-material (made of 1 single material)? Is the product circular with take back systems in place?

Where has the product been produced? We use the EPI-score as a leading benchmark. The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is a method of quantifying and numerically marking the environmental performance of a country.

Does the product have certifications like: Oeko-Tex®, BCI®, BlueSign®, GRS®, GOTS®, FSC®, etc. The more strict the certification, the higher the score.

Does the factory where the products are produce have been audited by a 3rd party in addition to Polyconcept own internal audits. This can be BSCI, SMETA, SA8000, WRAP, Bcorp, FWF, Fairtrade etc. A higher audit score will give a higher score in the impact tool.

The branding is an essential part of a promotional product. Products are scored when branded with certified inks (like Eco passport by Oeko-Tex®) or certified branding processes and techniques (Like GOTS® or GRS®).

The key objective is to remove virgin plastics and pvc from all packaging. To use FSC certified cardboard and recycled plastic polybags. The same material classification as with materials is used.

Transparency of the supply chain is a key priority. Do we know not just the vendor but also the factory the product is made in? Do we have insight in the raw material supply chain? Is the supply chain certified (GOTS, GRS, FSC etc)?