The Good On You methodology considers specific time-bound commitments and targets brands have made, such as targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and commitments to phase out certain production inputs. These commitments can demonstrate some organisational awareness and progress towards addressing impacts. However, a Good On You rating is primarily based on current sustainability initiatives brands have put into practice, which show how their operations and supply chain impact people, the planet, and animals.
This article explains how methodology accounts for brands' targets and progress.
Setting targets aligned with industry standards
Good On You ratings place greater weight on targets or goals aligned to an industry-led standard, such as where a brand adopts a Science-Based Target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or a target to eliminate hazardous chemicals by implementing the ZDHC Manufacturing Restricted Substances List.
How Good On You considers progress against targets
It is not expected that targets are achieved linearly. For example, if a brand intends to reduce emissions by 30% in 10 years' time, it is not expected that emissions would drop 3% every year.
Rather, the methodology assesses the extent to which a brand can demonstrate it is implementing initiatives to ensure the target is met, such as outlining the investment in renewable energy for suppliers.
Disclosing progress when not on track
Disclosing limited progress is better than not disclosing at all, as it recognises a brand taking its stated commitments seriously. The methodology gives a small amount of points for a brand being transparent and stating it isn’t on track.
Methodology sections that reference targets and commitments
Planet / Climate Change / Climate Change Targets
Planet / Climate Change / Climate Change Progress vs Target
Planet / Chemicals / Hazardous Chemicals
Planet / Water / Water Targets
Labour / Living Wage / Living Wage Outcomes
Labour / Policies / Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion
Animals / Animal Welfare and Commitments