In June, the IDEA team proudly received the SDG Champion certificate from CIFAL Brussels. A meaningful recognition of the sustainability efforts we have made as an organisation over the past years. But what does that mean exactly?
Champion is the second level in the full Pioneer–Champion–Ambassador cycle of UNITAR (UN) and CIFAL Brussels. In 2023, we were recognised as a Pioneer because we structurally embedded sustainability in IDEA’s strategy and organisation. Our sustainability team was strengthened, our first action plan took shape, and we further developed our services around sustainability and the SDGs for our clients.
But we did not stand still after that. We carried out a double materiality assessment, built on it with a new and more impact-oriented action plan, and published our first impact report this year.
In June 2026, our efforts were assessed by five external practitioners and experts. They awarded us the Champion certificate for a period of three years. A recognition we proudly received during a plenary meeting with IDEA colleagues on 25 June.
At the same time, we know that sustainability is not a final destination, but an ongoing journey. The certificate therefore comes with a constructive condition: in the coming period, we will place stronger emphasis on internal monitoring and impact measurement. Fortunately, our organisation has many experts with exactly that kind of experience.
Thank you to all our colleagues, and to the sustainability team in particular, for investing time, energy and knowledge in this sustainable course. Step by step, we continue to build an organisation with maximum positive impact.
Are you interested in starting a similar trajectory with CIFAL Brussels in your own organisation? Contact us, because that is what gives us energy: supporting public and private organisations in realising their sustainability ambitions.