Ensuring relevant, credible and effective standards

The ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard sets the global benchmark for steel sustainability. A benchmark is only powerful if it evolves with the world it serves. To this end, we are currently revising key social and environmental requirements through an open, collaborative and transparent process in consultation with ResponsibleSteel’s multi-stakeholder membership and wider industry stakeholders. The process consists of five overarching stages:

1. The ResponsibleSteel Secretariat reviews the Standard and holds a public consultation to determine topics for revision. Based on these inputs, the Secretariat makes a recommendation to the ResponsibleSteel Board of Directors, which decides whether or not to revise the Standard.
2. Terms of Reference are developed, then approved by the Board of Directors, defining the scope of the revision and outlining the revision process.
3. Topic-based Working Groups provide input on revision areas, and Technical Assurance Groups are convened to review and oversee Working Group outcomes.
4. A draft of the revised Standard undergoes public consultation to get stakeholder feedback. If there is substantially new content, or extensive changes or feedback, there is a second round of public consultation. Once the revised Standard is finalised, it is reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors before being voted on by ResponsibleSteel’s membership.
5. The revised Standard is published, and a transition period is determined (usually lasting 6 to 12 months) before the new Standard comes into effect for existing certificate holders, however it could be used earlier for new sites or if preferred by existing certified sites.

We are currently in stage 3 of the process. To learn more about the topics undergoing revision and how you can get involved, visit our Standard Revision page.

ResponsibleSteel invites recognised certification bodies and downstream companies wishing to market or sell products made from or containing ResponsibleSteel Certified Steel to participate in a pilot of ResponsibleSteel's draft Chain of Custody Standard. ​By taking part, you would be helping ResponsibleSteel determine:​

• If the standard achieves the intended sustainability outcomes​;
• If the standard has unintended negative impacts​;
• The auditability of the requirements in the standard​;
• The feasibility of applicants achieving the standard's requirements​.

If you are interested in participating in the pilot, please complete this form.

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