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Stage 1: Your entry 

Structured, quality-assured sustainability indicators - with a certifiable management system for sustainable corporate governance

We Impact is an integrated sustainability management system that systematically integrates all aspects of sustainability (ESG issues) into its operational processes.

The entry level is aimed at companies that want to take their first steps in systematic sustainability management. It provides a solid foundation for integrating sustainability practices into daily business processes.

The implementation of We Impact, including the sustainability report in accordance with VSME, is independently checked and validated as part of the audit by accredited environmental verifiers or accredited auditors. Your advantage: We Impact provides you with exactly the same quality-assured data that banks, insurance companies and business partners request from you.

About We Impact

Recognized management standards as a starting point

The We Impact system was developed on behalf of and with the support of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment. We Impact is a further development of the proven EMASplus sustainability management system. It is based on the European environmental management system EMAS and ISO 14001. It thus combines the advantages of recognized international management standards, which improve the processes and performance of the organization, with sustainability standards.

We Impact embodies a sustainable management system that not only points the way, but also guides you through it.

Credibility and quality - tested and certified

From system to seal

We Impact is a certifiable sustainability management system that entitles companies to use the We Impact seal if they meet all requirements and are successfully certified. With independent auditing and certification by accredited impact auditors, joining We Impact guarantees credibility and the highest quality.

Compliance with legal requirements

Taking into account the VSME and the Supply Chain Act

The We Impact System integrates the requirements of the VSME and the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act. It prepares companies for credible sustainability reporting and compliance with human rights due diligence obligations along the value chain. All specified ESG topics are taken into account as part of the sustainability audit: Environmental, Social and Governance.

We Impact is an excellent basis for your company for VSME-compliant reporting and for providing information to banks, insurance companies and business partners.

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How sustainable is your company?
Take the first step towards sustainable success - in just a few minutes you will receive an assessment of your sustainability performance and specific recommendations for action.
Impact Quick-Check

We Impact Level 1: At a glance

We Impact Level 1 provides you with structured support in the implementation of sound sustainability management 

We Impact Level 1: 

Entry into systematic sustainability management with certification
Basic requirements
  • Inventory and employee survey
  • ESG criteria and initial materiality assessment
  • Risk assessment and supply chain risks
  • Sustainability strategy, action plan and employee participation
  • Establishment of simple management structures
  • Sustainability report according to VSME
Examination
Online audit by approved impact auditors with interviews and document review
Certification level
Basic seal
Introduction horizon

approx. 4 to 6 months

Cultivate a sustainable future!
Explore how We Impact can help your company implement sustainability effectively and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Begin your journey to responsible corporate management today.
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8 steps to the We Impact system

For a sustainable economy

The path to the We Impact Level 1 seal can be broken down into 8 steps, from the status analysis to entry in the We Impact Register. Find out more about the individual steps in the overview.

Further information on the process

Here you will find more information about the contents of the process steps. The exact requirements of the We Impact management system can be found in the We Impact certification standard.

1. impact stock analysis

The aim of the inventory analysis is to assess the status quo of the company with regard to sustainability criteria - for example, by recording consumption, interviewing relevant stakeholders and identifying the key sustainability aspects for the company.

2. mission statement

Based on the results of the analysis, the company develops a sustainability strategy, draws up a mission statement and defines binding sustainability principles.

3. improvement program

This is where strategic goals are formulated and a catalog of measures (preventive and remedial measures) is drawn up.

4. management structures

The next step is implementation planning. For example, the necessary management structures must be created, responsibilities and schedules defined and the fulfillment of indicators controlled and monitored. Successful sustainability management only unfolds its potential if it is put into practice within the company.

5. internal review

The internal review of the management system is now based on the We Impact checklist.

6. sustainability report

Collection and preparation of material ESG data in accordance with the VSME structure. The information is checked in the audit and serves as proof of sustainability management.

7. external audit

Review of the management system and sustainability report by an external auditor. If the audit is successful, the company receives proof of certification, is entered in the public We Impact Register and is authorized to use the We Impact seal.

8 We Impact and EMAS register

If the audit is successful, the company receives proof of certification, is entered in the public We Impact Register and is authorized to use the We Impact seal.

Want to know more?

In our toolbox you will find further checklists, our impact check and links to freely available online sources

Toolbox

FAQ

You can find more information here

Why should I implement We Impact if I am already reporting in the same way as VSME?

The VSME determines what is reported. We Impact shows how sustainability is managed within the company. We Impact offers a practice-oriented structure for systematically managing ESG issues: with clear processes, responsibilities and targets.
The data from the VSME is thus embedded in a management system that makes progress plannable and verifiable. The end result is a certified management system and validated ESG data.

How much does it cost to get started with We Impact?

The costs depend on the scope and size of the organization. Internal personnel resources are primarily required for the introduction. Depending on requirements, external consultancy costs and the audit fee for the external audit and a small registration fee at the head office may also be incurred.

What does the interaction between consulting and certification look like?

The consultancy helps with the introduction of We Impact, for example with the analysis, objective setting and implementation. Certification is then carried out by an independent auditor. Consulting and auditing are separate, but can complement each other.
The office can put you in touch with suitable consultants on request.

How do I find the right We Impact consultants who are familiar with my industry?

On the website of the We-Impact office you will find a register of consultants. There you can search for consultants with experience in your sector or region. If required, the office can also support you directly in the selection or placement process.

Why is quality-assured sustainability data so important?

Business partners, banks and other stakeholders are increasingly demanding reliable ESG data that meets at least the VSME standard. With We Impact, this data is collected in a quality-assured manner and supported by an audited system.
From 2026, many banks will be tightening their ESG requirements. By then, comprehensible data and concrete implementation plans will be crucial for securing loans or partnerships.

How can I be sure that We Impact will not soon be obsolete?

We Impact is based on EMAS and current ISO standards and is aligned with key ESG frameworks such as CSRD and VSME.
The standard is constantly being developed to integrate new requirements.