Exploring Required Improvements in the RSPO’s Assurance Systems – ASC Highlights, Early Half of 2024

Photo source: RSPO

The Assurance Standing Committee (ASC) continues to uphold a strong momentum in improving RSPO's assurance systems. In the past six months, the ASC has had three meetings and an Assurance Forum, focusing primarily on assessing key areas for systems improvement. Here are some highlights from the meetings.

Potential Delinking of CBs and Auditees

Studies have shown that an insufficiently addressed credibility risk in RSPO's assurance systems is the direct business link between certification bodies (CBs) and auditees. The ASC appointed consultant NewForesight to explore the potential delinking of this commercial relationship and the conditions that may strengthen the system's credibility. The study, presented at the ASC's second quarterly meeting in May 2024, concluded that most stakeholders do not view delinking as the best solution. However, if pursued, a central fund model in which a separate body handles the allocation and payment of CBs would be the most effective approach.

The RSPO Labour Auditing Guidance (LAG) is a voluntary guidance document for auditors that completed its trial period in May 2024, kicking off the Independent Review of the Implementation of RSPO LAG. This review aims to identify gaps and assess the feasibility of possible mandatory implementation of the LAG. The appointed consultant, Proforest, will conduct a desk review and stakeholder interviews, with the final report expected in October 2024. Until the final recommendations are reviewed by the RSPO Board of Governors, the LAG remains a voluntary guidance.

A meeting was also held between the Co-Chairs of the ASC and the Complaints Panel in May 2024. In addition to relevant updates from the ASC, such as the aforementioned studies, this meeting provided news on the Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR), which will come into effect in December 2024.

Enhancing Auditors' Conduct & Capability

In June 2024, the ASC approved draft modifications to the Code of Conduct for RSPO Auditors. The objective was to improve the clarity of what is expected of auditors who perform audits overseeing the compliance of RSPO's Principles and Criteria (P&C), Supply Chain Certification (SCC), and RSPO Independent Smallholder Standard (RISS). The Code of Conduct has been annexed to the latest draft of the Certification Systems document.

The ninth Assurance Forum, held on 25 June 2024, focused on improving auditors' capability in social audits. With 99 participants from various sectors, discussions emphasised accommodating international legislation on forced labour and decent work, and enhancing auditor competence and scheduling. Feedback from this forum will be considered in Proforest's review of the LAG.

The ASC is committed to continuously improving the credibility of RSPO's assurance systems and addressing challenges diligently. To learn more about the Assurance Standing Committee, click here.

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