People and Planet First accreditation renewed for a third year

This global verification brings together organisations that are committed to putting people and the planet first, and we are proud to be part of a growing international movement of enterprises prioritising purpose over profit.

Developed to recognise organisations that meet five key standards:
1. Purpose: Exists to solve a social and/or environmental problem.
2. Operations: Prioritises purpose, people and planet over profit in operational decisions.
3. Revenue: Has a self-sustaining revenue model.
4. Use of Surplus: Reinvests the majority of any surplus towards its purpose.
5. Structure: Chooses legal structures and financing that protect and lock in purpose long-term.

This verification covers a wide range of enterprise models, including social enterprises, cooperatives, fair trade organisations, mutuals, not-for-profits and social businesses, as well as newer approaches such as regenerative and steward-owned businesses. It is open to any enterprise that meets the standards and demonstrates a clear commitment to putting people and planet first.

As part of the Social Enterprise Scotland network, we were able to access this verification and stand alongside many organisations across Scotland and beyond that are helping to build an economy designed around people and planet. Since first being verified in 2024, we have continued to connect capital with communities to deliver measurable, sustainable impact. Our work supports organisations with ambitions around climate action, inclusive growth and social impact.

For example, through initiatives like The Social Enterprise Net Zero Transition Fund (NZTF), we have helped organisations invest in sustainability infrastructure and reduce emissions on their journey to carbon neutrality. Dynamic Earth, staple feature of the Edinburgh Old Town skyline since 1999, partnered with the NZTF to accelerate its journey to net zero, securing £190,000 from SIS to upgrade to their iconic Stratosphere roof. The space, previously difficult to heat and cool due to its glass, steel and fabric design, was improved through the installation of destratification fans and energy-efficient LED lighting. These upgrades were projected to save over 200,000 kWh annually and cut emissions by more than 20 tonnes of C02e each year. As well as enhancing the experience for around 250,000 annual visitors, the project reflected Dynamic Earth's inherent nature of preserving our planet's resources, using its status as a science and learning centre to lead by example and inspire wider climate action.

Across our organisation, we are committed to responsible business practices, with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, climate action, and ethical sourcing from social enterprises and local businesses. As a not-for-profit, we reinvest any surplus back into our purpose to expand our impact further.

If you are part of the Social Enterprise Scotland community and are considering verification, it is free for members and offers a great opportunity to increase visibility, connect with a global network, and be part of a shared movement creating positive change.

Learn more here: People and Planet First Verification - Social Enterprise Scotland

You can explore our full ESG commitments and Good Market profile here: Social Investment Scotland