Frequently Asked Questions
What is GSP™?
GSP™ (Green Software Practices™) is a certification framework that helps organizations assess, validate, and improve the sustainability of their software and AI systems. It focuses on practical, measurable practices across governance, training, measurement, and continuous improvement.
Is GSP™ a certification or an assessment?
GSP™ is a certification framework supported by a structured assessment process. Self-Assessed certification is based on self-declared information. Verified and Verified+ certifications are awarded only after independent verification by GreenSeal.
Is this a product certification?
No. GSP™ certifies organizational practices, not individual software products.
How is GSP™ different from other sustainability certifications/standards?
While there are other sustainability certification frameworks, GSP™ stands out for being focused in development practices that make software more resource efficient. Most frameworks overlook the importance of building software products that are environmentally friendly.
How does GSP™ compare with ISO14001?
ISO 14001 is a standard for Environmental Management Systems that addresses an organization’s environmental impact and supports continuous improvement. Nevertheless, it overlooks the environmental impact of software execution and the substantial carbon emission reductions that can be achieved through energy-efficient software design.
Does paying for verification guarantee certification?
No.
Organizations pay for an independent verification process, not for a badge. Certification badges (Verified or Verified+) are awarded only if the criteria are met.
All paid certifications result in a detailed technical assessment report, regardless of the certification outcome.
What happens if we do not pass the Verified certification?
If the criteria are not fully met:
- Your existing certification status (e.g. Self-Assessed) remains unchanged
- You receive a detailed report identifying gaps and improvement areas
- You may address the gaps and request re-verification at a later stage No organization leaves the verification process without clear and actionable feedback.
Can an organization enroll in Verified+ without already being certified?
Yes.
Organizations may engage in the Verified+ program even if they do not yet meet all certification criteria. The Verified+ badge is awarded only once the criteria are fulfilled.
Does GSP™ measure carbon emissions?
GSP™ focuses on engineering practices and measurement capabilities. Carbon metrics may be included when available but are not mandatory.
Is the badge time-limited?
Yes. All GSP™ certifications are valid for a limited period and must be renewed to remain active.
Can startups apply?
Yes. GSP™ is designed to be inclusive and scalable.
What is the difference between Self-Assessed and Verified certification?
GSP™ Self-Assessed is based entirely on information provided by the organization and is not independently verified. Verified certification requires an external review of evidence and validation against GSP™ criteria by GreenSeal. The underlying checklist is the same, but the level of evidence and validation increases.
Can we make public sustainability claims using GSP™?
- GSP™ Self-Assessed: Should not be used for strong external claims
- GSP™ Verified / GSP™ Verified+: Suitable for public sustainability and ESG communication
Organizations are responsible for ensuring their claims are accurate and aligned with their certification level.
Who can submit a GSP™ self-assessment?
The assessment must be submitted by someone authorized to represent the organization and confirm the accuracy of the provided information.
Who operates the certification?
GSP™ is operated by GreenSeal Lda., an independent company specialized in sustainable software and AI.
Can we lose the certification?
Yes. Misuse of the badge or misleading claims may result in revocation.
