Ferdinand Consultants developed a report examining how quality infrastructure (QI) supports the effective implementation of sustainability standards in global supply chains. The work was carried out with inputs from the Sustainability Standards Task Force of Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and was published as a PTB report.
The publication “Quality Infrastructure and Sustainability Standards” outlines the role of quality infrastructure in translating sustainability standards into practical and verifiable requirements. Public and private sustainability standards define ecological and social benchmarks that help distinguish sustainable from unsustainable products, support responsible business practices, and reduce risks along global value chains.
The report describes how companies — in particular small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and emerging economies — often face a complex landscape of sustainability standards, varying compliance requirements, and limited access to local testing, certification, and accreditation services. It explains how a well-functioning quality infrastructure system, covering metrology, standardization, conformity assessment, and accreditation, can help address these constraints and facilitate the practical application of sustainability standards.
Using examples from countries such as India, Indonesia, Ecuador, and Egypt, the publication illustrates how improved quality infrastructure can support businesses in meeting sustainability standards more efficiently, increase confidence among international buyers, and improve access to global markets. It also points to broader contributions to sustainable economic development, improved labour practices, and environmental protection.
Download the report (PDF):
https://www.ptb.de/cms/fileadmin/internet/fachabteilungen/abteilung_q/q.3_internationale_zusammenarbeit/publikationen/PTB_Compact_QI_Nachhaltigkeit_DE.pdf