About us
Who we are
4C is an independent, stakeholder-driven, internationally recognised third party certification system for coffee and cocoa sector.
It adopts a holistic approach to sustainability, enabling coffee farmers in take part in responsible supply chains that foster economic resilience, fair and safe working conditions, and the conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Our History
The Evolution of 4C
Since its beginnings as a multi-stakeholder initiative, 4C has evolved into a globally recognised certification system for sustainable coffee and cocoa.
4C’s journey is one of continuous evolution; growing in scope, ambition and impact, with its recent rebranding marking the next step forward.
From Verification to a Comprehensive Certification Scheme
| 2025 System Revision and Rebranding | Introduction of Audit Checklist Version 4.1 | – The 4C System is rebranded as Certification for Climate, Conservation and Communities, reflecting its broad commitment to sustainability and impact. – The 4C Code of Conduct Version 5.0 introduces enhanced criteria and structure for continuous improvement. |
| 2024 Sector Expansion | Launch of 4C Add-Ons | 4C extends its sustainability certification and includes cocoa production. |
| 2023 Strengthening Assurance | Publication of Revised 4C Code of Conduct Version 4.0 | Enhanced audit requirements to support deeper system integrity and clarity. |
| 2022 Targeted Sustainability Solutions | CAS becomes 4C Services | New optional modules addressing key challenges in agriculture: – Food Security – Advancing Equity, Empowering Women – Carbon Footprint |
| 2020 A Comprehensive Certification System | Dissolution of the 4C Association | The new version establishes 4C as a fully independent third-party certification scheme. |
| 2018 Founding of 4C Services | The 4C Association and Common Code for the Coffee Community | The beginning of a strengthened certification system. |
| 2016 Sector Restructuring | Dissolution of the 4C Association | Two new independent organisations emerge: Global Coffee Platform and Coffee Assurance Services (CAS). |
| 2004 – 2015 Multi Stakeholder Initiative | The 4C Association and Common Code for the Coffee Community | An entry-level verification system co-developed with diverse stakeholders. |
Our Vision
4C strives for a world in which the responsible coffee and cocoa products contributes positively to the environment and to people.
Our Mission
4C aims to anchor sustainability by providing a robust and transparent third-party certification system that creates added value for all actors, users and businesses across coffee and cocoa supply chain.
What do we do
Third Party Certification Scheme
Training and Capacity Building
Stakeholder Engagement
Global Recognition and Alignment
Innovative Solutions for Compliance and Due Diligence
We support farmers, traders and roasters in improving their practices through third-party verified certification, practical tools and continuous improvement strategies.
Sustainability Principles and Criteria of the 4C Certification System
The 4C Code of Conduct is the foundation of the 4C Certification System. Developed through a transparent, multi-stakeholder initiative, it defines the principles and criteria of sustainability for the responsible production and processing of agricultural products.
It promotes continuous improvement across the environmental, social and economic dimensions, aiming to enhance conditions throughout the global supply chains.
Environmental
No deforestation
CO2 reduction
Water and soil protection
Regenerative Agriculture
Social
Safe working conditions
Fair wages
Human and labour rights
Education and livelihoods
Economic
Farmer income
Cooperative strength
Yield and quality
Supply security
Compliance
Supporting regulation compliance
Certification as risk mitigation
Explore 4C
4C Cocoa Certification
Building on its long-standing experience in coffee, 4C has developed a stand-alone cocoa certification designed to address these challenges in a practical, farmer-centred way.
Governance Structure
Transparency and inclusiveness are at the heart of our governance. Learn more about our operational team, boards and stakeholder engagement.
Recognitions and Memberships
4C is a member of the ISEAL community and is recognised across the sustainability and agricultural sectors. Discover our memberships and external recognitions.
News
Stay up to date with the latest developments, announcements and updates from 4C.
Events
Join us at global and regional events.
If you are looking for a way to improve the sustainability footprint of the coffee supply chains, get in touch with us.
Further Information