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Engagé RSE: the complete guide to earning this prestigious label

Updated on 6 February 2025

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In a world where corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming a major issue, the Engagé RSE label has become an essential reference. Whether you’re an ambitious SME or a large company concerned about its impact, this guide will take you step by step towards obtaining this precious sesame.

What is the Engagé RSE label?

The Engagé RSE label, issued by AFNOR Certification, is the French benchmark for assessing the maturity of organizations’ CSR processes. Based on the international ISO 26000 standard, it stands out for its holistic approach and rigorous methodology.

Important features:
  • The label offers four levels of maturity: Initial, Progression, Confirmed and Exemplary.
  • Each level corresponds to an overall score out of 1000 points, with specific thresholds for each chapter of the reference system.
  • The label is aimed at all types of organization, whatever their size or sector of activity.
  • More than 220 organizations in France and abroad.

The benefits of obtaining the Engagé RSE label

Obtaining the Engagé RSE label is more than just an administrative formality. It’s a real strategic asset for your company. Here’s why:

  1. Access to preferential financing: Some banks offer preferential rates to companies with the Engagé RSE label.
  2. Facilitating extra-financial reporting: The label considerably simplifies the production of the Extra-Financial Performance Declaration (EFPD), mandatory for large companies.
  3. Detailed sector benchmark: Labeled companies receive an anonymized benchmark report, enabling them to position themselves precisely in relation to their peers.
  4. A network for exchanging best practices: AFNOR regularly organizes “CSR clubs” reserved for certified companies, to encourage the sharing of experience.
  5. Added value in extra-financial ratings: The label is recognized by the main extra-financial rating agencies, potentially improving the company’s ESG score.

The 5-stage certification process

Obtaining the Engagé RSE label requires meticulous preparation. Here are the key steps to follow:

  1. Initial self-assessment: Use the AFAQ 26000 online tool for an initial assessment. It allows you to simulate a score out of 1000 points.
  2. Preparing the project: Set up a cross-functional project team. On average, companies spend 6 to 12 months on this phase.
  3. On-site assessment: An independent, ICA-certified assessor conducts the assessment. He uses the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) method for each criterion. Interviews are conducted with a representative panel of stakeholders.
  4. Certification committee: A committee of independent experts examines the evaluation report and may request additional information before making a decision.
  5. Post-labeling follow-up: An 18-month follow-up audit verifies implementation of the progress plan. This is a crucial stage, often underestimated.

With Mon Entreprise Durable by Coptain, you can easily prepare for your CSR label.

The 8 chapters of the Committed to CSR reference framework

The Engagé RSE label is based on a comprehensive set of standards, comprising 8 chapters and 55 assessment criteria. Here’s a detailed overview of these chapters:

  1. Vision and governance: This chapter evaluates the reflection carried out on the company’s values, vision and raison d’être. It examines how CSR is integrated into the organization’s overall strategy and governance.
  2. Implementation of the approach: This section analyzes the way in which CSR is deployed within the company. It assesses the resources allocated, employee training and the integration of CSR into decision-making processes.
  3. Human resources and human rights: This chapter examines practices in terms of human resources management, professional equality, diversity and respect for fundamental rights. It also assesses working conditions and social dialogue.
  4. Sustainable production and consumption: This section analyzes the environmental impact of the company’s activities, particularly in terms of eco-design, waste management and the circular economy.
  5. Territorial anchoring: This chapter assesses the company’s involvement in its local ecosystem, its relations with local authorities and its impact on the region’s economic and social development.
  6. Environment: This section looks in detail at actions to protect the environment, including energy and water management, biodiversity preservation and the fight against climate change.
  7. Business ethics: This chapter assesses practices in the areas of governance, business ethics, anti-corruption and compliance with competition rules.
  8. Products, services and customer relations: This section analyzes the extent to which CSR is taken into account in the company’s offering, the quality of customer relations, and the information provided to consumers on the social and environmental impacts of products and services.

Sector-specific CSR approaches: tailor-made solutions

AFNOR Certification has developed an innovative approach to adapt the Engagé RSE label to the specificities of different business sectors. In concrete terms, this means ..:

  • 10 sector-specific CSR labels created in collaboration with trade federations
  • 6 guides to reading the Engagé RSE label for specific sectors
  • Sector-specific approaches such as the CSR path for cleaning companies or CSR ratings for the travel industry

These adaptations enable companies to meet the expectations of their stakeholders, strengthen their resilience and access new markets, while retaining the methodological rigor of the original Engagé RSE label.

Tips for successful labeling

To maximize your chances of obtaining the Engagé RSE label, here are a few practical tips:

  1. Involve management: Management commitment is crucial. At Roche Diagnostics France, which has been awarded the Engagé RSE exemplary levelthis strong commitment has been a key factor in our success.
  2. Mobilize your teams: CSR is everyone’s business. Train and raise awareness among all your employees. CELESTE, which has been awarded the “Engagé RSE niveau confirmélabel, has set up CSR referents recognized for their ability to inform and federate.
  3. Structure your approach: Draw up a CSR action plan with clear objectives and measurable indicators. This is what CELESTE has done, and what the evaluators praised.
  4. Document your actions: Keep a record of all your CSR initiatives, even the most modest ones. They will be invaluable during the evaluation process.
  5. Dialogue with your stakeholders: The label places great importance on listening to and involving your stakeholders. Roche Diagnostics France has involved more than 50 internal and external stakeholders during its assessment.
  6. Think continuous improvement: The label is not an end in itself. Use the evaluators’ feedback to make constant progress. Rector Lesagethe 1st concrete manufacturer to receive the label, has drawn up commitments for 2025 and 2030 to pursue its efforts.
  7. Get support: Don’t hesitate to enlist the help of CSR experts to guide you through the process. Many companies make this choice to optimize their chances of success.

An investment in the future

Obtaining the Engagé RSE label is a demanding but highly rewarding process. It’s an opportunity to structure your CSR approach, mobilize your teams around a unifying project, and stand out in your market.

As Nicolas Aubéfounder and Chairman of CELESTE: “This recognition validates our coherent CSR strategy and enables us to measure the performance of our approach”. It’s an investment in the future, enabling you to build a more resilient, attractive and successful company over the long term.

So, are you ready to take up the challenge and join the circle of CSR-committed companies? The road may seem long, but every step counts. And don’t forget: when it comes to CSR, the most important thing is not the destination, but how far we’ve come and the progress we’ve made.

FAQ about the Engagé RSE label

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Engagé RSE label and their answers:

The cost of obtaining the Engagé RSE label varies according to the size and turnover of the company. AFNOR draws up a personalized quote for each organization. We recommend contacting them directly for a precise estimate.

Although the Engagé RSE label is mainly recognized in France, it is linked to international standards such as ISO 26000 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, there is an international version called "Responsibility Europe", which reinforces its credibility beyond French borders.

The Engagé RSE label stands out for its strong credibility, thanks to its certification by AFNOR and its alignment with the ISO 26000 standard. Unlike B Corp, which offers international recognition, Engagé RSE is more specifically adapted to the French and European context.

Yes, it is possible to lose the label. The company is assessed at mid-term to ensure that it is maintaining its practices. If the organization fails to make further progress or no longer meets the criteria, it may lose its label.

The Engagé RSE label is designed to facilitate extra-financial reporting by companies. Its criteria are linked to the expectations of the Extra-Financial Performance Declaration (EFRD), enabling organizations to better meet their legal obligations while promoting their CSR commitments.

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