Real Reason’s initial situation assessment was then presented and analyzed at a two-day retreat in Pocantico, USA, in October 2009.
The retreat was structured to generate dialogue and debate between standards system practitioners (groups engaged in developing standards and promoting their uptake) and civil society groups with particular interest in the social and environmental impacts of standards systems.
A range of issues were identified during the retreat, including:
- Divergent opinions on the direct role of consumers in contributing to the increased uptake of sustainability standards;
- Recognition that whilst businesses play an increasingly important role in driving uptake, their involvement also presents challenges in relation to credibility;
- Concern about the implications of standards proliferation;
- Recognition that governments could and should have a major role in scaling up the use of non-governmental sustainability standards, but also that the delivery of some sustainability functions (e.g. the setting and enforcing of minimum legal requirements) is the specific remit of governmental authority;
- Recognition of the complexity of interactions between standards systems and governance: non-governmental standards systems may potentially address governance gaps, serve as tools to foster democratic processes, and support communication amongst diverse groups of stakeholders, but the limits and risks of such roles are not well understood.
The meeting highlighted the need to develop a coordinated strategy and plan of action to address these key issues.
It was agreed to continue the dialogue, to clarify and attempt to resolve the identified confusions and tensions, with a view to developing a shared vision for the future role of sustainability standards systems as the basis for collective action to achieve that vision.
A full report, together with background materials can be downloaded below.
