Kiwa Stories - Articles

Kiwa PVEL is excited to announce the release of the 2024 PV Module Reliability Scorecard, marking the tenth edition of our annual report. This year’s Scorecard features 388 top-performing PV module models from 53 manufacturers, showcasing the best of what’s commercially available in solar technology.

In our latest article, Chief HR Officer Marrianne Groeneveld emphasizes the importance of fostering an inclusive environment to achieve true diversity and equal opportunities.

Discover the significance of World Accreditation Day, celebrated every June 9th. Learn from Rutger Fugers, Lead Auditor at Kiwa, about the pivotal role of accreditation and ISO 9001 certification in enhancing business processes, customer confidence, and global standards.

World Food Safety Day on June 7th reminds us of the many challenges in ensuring global food security. For us at Kiwa, as a leading accredited certifier, this day is vital to highlighting our commitment to maintaining high food safety standards — in support of our customers and the betterment of the planet as a whole.

As the EU shifts towards greater sustainable practices, hydrogen becomes a strong contender for replacing fossil fuels and addressing carbon emissions and climate challenges. Ramses Sterckx, Lead Contract Engineer in Sustainability and Environment at Vinçotte, shares insights into the hydrogen certification initiative undertaken by Kiwa and Vinçotte

The construction industry substantially impacts sustainability, with one-third of global energy consumption and half of waste generation attributed to its activities. Carsten Rieck, International Business Development Manager at Kiwa, discusses the importance of sustainability, particularly when it comes to concrete and our critical role in prioritizing the environment.

In the food industry sector, the food safety and quality of products is a priority. Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) benchmarking requirements provide a solid foundation of trust for consumers and stakeholders. Kiwa as a certification body is aligned against the Certification Programme Owner (CPO) ‘s requirements to perform audits. As a certification body we help business to get GFSI recognized certificates.

As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, it's a timely reminder of our collective responsibility to protect our planet. Each year, this global event urges us to take action, no matter how small, to preserve the environment for future generations. Whether it's reducing single-use plastics, conserving energy, or supporting sustainable practices, every action counts towards a healthier planet.

Raba Kistner Inc. (a member of the Kiwa group), recently expanded in the U.S. Gulf Coast region, adding six offices and nearly 60 employees. As part of their growth strategy for the region and the energy sector, they have reintroduced drilling services to meet the needs of their clients in the planning, design, and construction phases of their projects.

Recently, the European Parliament adopted the Artificial Intelligence Act: MEPs adopt landmark law. The regulation aims to safeguard fundamental rights, democracy, and environmental sustainability. The new set of rules implies a need for more careful examination of the evidence regarding the continuous safety and performance of AI-driven medical device software.

In a strong move towards fostering sustainability and environmental responsibility, the European Union has enacted the EU Batteries Regulation 2023/1542. This regulation replaces the EU’s previous regulation on batteries sold in the market and partly focuses on their environmental impact. Moreover, it comprises mandatory carbon footprint verification requirements and other stringent regulations, signifying a new era for businesses in battery production, import, and sales within the EU.

Since 1993, World Water Day has served as a vital platform to address water and sanitation issues, stressing the need for safe water access. Marco van Brink, International Business Manager of Kiwa's Water and Gas Business Sector, tells us more about Kiwa's water legacy and the significance of our water-related services.

If you're involved in the manufacturing or supply of water products like showers, taps, valves, or WCs, you will come across the British standard BS 6920. This standard establishes requirements for non-metallic materials in contact with drinking water, ensuring water safety and preventing contamination. Compliance to the BS 6920 is crucial to enter the British market.

March 18th is Global Recycling Day, a special day that marks our universal awareness of recycling for a better earth. This is not just another day but one that serves as a powerful reminder for us all to continue taking action when it comes to recycling—no matter what. From certifying recycled content to tackling e-waste, we're dedicated to shaping a greener world. Read more in our latest article.

In Celebration of International Women’s Day, we recently interviewed six of our female employees to find out how they are experiencing gender equality and inclusion in their careers and at Kiwa.

We Care is a management standard for the implementation and certification of sustainability requirements at company sites and in supply chain management for companies in the food industry. From cultivation in the countries of origin to the domestic supermarket, We Care certified companies act with their partners for a fair and environmentally friendly production of food. Learn more in our latest article.