- 01
Application
Interested organisations submit a short expression of interest outlining their background, motivation and purpose for taking part in the WCRI.
- 02
Quick Interview
A focused 15-minute session clarifying objectives, expectations and suitability, with initial guidance and orientation.
- 03
Gap Identification
Current practices are benchmarked against the seven WCRI pillars, which are oriented on the core subjects of ISO 26000.
- 04
Data Collection
Completion of a detailed questionnaire and submission of evidence documents supporting the organisation’s sustainability practices.
- 05
Evidence Review & Scoring
Every answer is checked against its cited source and scored across all seven pillars. Statements without a documented source score zero. The result is visualised as a radar chart.
- 06
Four-eyes Approval
A second WCI reviewer, not involved in the assessment, reviews and approves the result. Only approved results enter the index.
- 07
Comment Period
The organisation has 14 days to comment on the draft assessment and to object. Appeals are possible in writing within 30 days of notification; they are decided by a WCI reviewer who was not involved in the assessment, and at second instance by the Advisory Board.
- 08
WCRI Score & Listing
Publication of the approved WCRI score on the WCRI Register with WCRI ID and a QR code leading to the Responsibility Passport, plus access to resources, networking and community recognition.
- 09
Annual Review
Updated figures and evidence; the listing is confirmed, corrected or suspended.
- 10
Re-assessment after 24 Months
WCRI scores are valid for 24 months from approval. Re-assessment requires updated documentation and evidence of continued activities.
Who can take part
Cities, NGOs, companies, academic institutions and community networks active in sustainability and environmental action.
Assessment framework
Seven pillars oriented on the core subjects of ISO 26000, adapted for practical evaluation across all types of organisations.
WCI expert support
WCI staff explain the procedure, the question set and the evidence requirements. Advice and assessment are separate: the WCI does not advise an organisation it assesses in the same cycle.
Timeline
Target: six to eight weeks from application to listing, including the 14-day comment period. Re-assessment takes 4–8 weeks.
Scoring and evidence
Each applicable question scores 0, 1 or 2 points; pillar scores are weighted into one overall score. Evidence is classified as self-declared, documented, reviewed by WCI or (phase 2) independently verified; self-declared statements score zero until evidenced. Full methodology →