Accredia and ASI (Assurance Services International) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bring together national accreditation and ASI oversight expertise for future collaboration in the field of sustainability.
The intent of the agreement is to work jointly towards the implementation of the ASI Two-Tier Assurance Program in Italy for ASI client voluntary sustainability standards and sustainability initiatives. As a first step, this collaboration will facilitate exchange between both organizations and deepen their understanding of each other’s processes. Accredia is the third National Accreditation Body to establish such partnership with ASI, following suit after Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle (DAkkS) and United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).
In the words of Emanuele Riva, Vice General Director of Accredia: “Over the last decade, sustainability has become a central theme on the agenda of many countries and the Quality Infrastructure has likewise moved forward. I remember with pleasure that last June ISO launched the ISO Strategic Advisory Group on Environmental, social, governance (ESG) ecosystem. It’s time to act, without being afraid to explore new paths and change the paradigm. Those who bring solutions are welcome”.
According to Guntars Laguns, ASI Managing Director: “This partnership has the potential to bring many benefits to stakeholders and Conformity Assessment Bodies alike. Italy is a very important market for sustainability certification. A future integration and alignment of Accredia national accreditation and ASI assurance oversight can bring synergies while increasing rigour at the same time”.