- CDP stands for Carbon Disclosure Project; the logo and score mentions are governed by specific usage rules.
- The CDP logo and scores belong to CDP: commercial use is restricted and subject to authorization.
- A company can communicate its score (e.g. "CDP A") by following official formats and wording.
- Compliant use protects the credibility of your communication and avoids any greenwashing risk.
What is the CDP logo and what does the CDP acronym stand for?
CDP stands for Carbon Disclosure Project, an international non-profit organization that runs a global environmental disclosure system. It assesses companies based on their transparency and actions regarding climate change, water security, and deforestation.
The CDP logo embodies this commitment to transparency and accountability. It is associated with standardized environmental reporting and a structured assessment of an organization's environmental performance.
Why does the CDP logo matter for companies?
Displaying the CDP logo — directly or indirectly — sends a powerful signal to investors, clients, and partners. It demonstrates a company's willingness to be accountable for its environmental impact and to make progress within an internationally recognized framework.
Well-scoring companies gain a competitive edge in terms of reputation and trust. Their score becomes a closely watched non-financial performance indicator for stakeholders.
The CDP logo communicates:
- Transparency in how environmental issues are managed.
- The reliability of reporting grounded in a rigorous methodology.
- A company's commitment to a consistent and evolving approach.
Who owns the rights to the CDP logo?
CDP owns its visual identity. Its logo is a protected brand asset under intellectual property law.
Before using the CDP logo, a company must ensure it meets the eligibility criteria set by the organization. The right to use the logo is tied to holding a recognized CDP status — such as being an active discloser for the current year, appearing on the A List, or being an accredited service provider — rather than requiring individual authorization on a case-by-case basis. Any use that does not meet these criteria could mislead stakeholders.
What are the official CDP logo usage rules?
CDP publishes its official graphic guidelines in a brand guide available on its website. Key specifications include:
- Authorized versions: The primary version features the tagline "Disclosure Insight Action" and should be used wherever possible; a white version is available for use on colored backgrounds.
- Color rules: The full-color version is reserved for white backgrounds; the all-white monochrome version applies to colored backgrounds.
- Minimum size: The logo should not be reproduced at less than 20mm in width for stamps such as Climate Performance Leader or Climate Disclosure Leader.
- Clear space: A defined protection zone must be maintained around the logo to ensure legibility.
- Media: The rules apply to both digital and print materials.
For the complete and up-to-date specifications (file formats, status-specific variations, etc.), refer to the official brand guide available at cdp.net.
Best practices for using the CDP logo in your communications
Based on CDP's official guidelines and ESG best practices, here are the key principles to follow:
- Always provide context when using the logo: include your score, the year, and the purpose of the communication (e.g., when publishing a sustainability report).
- Don't overpromise: a CDP logo or score does not imply certification — it reflects a rating based on disclosed transparency and actions.
- Only use the official visual assets provided by CDP, in line with the current guidelines.
- Ensure consistency between the logo and your message: specify the scope (climate, water, forests), the year of assessment, and maintain a balanced communication.
These precautions help avoid confusion among stakeholders and ensure your messaging aligns with ESG standards of accuracy and integrity.
How to correctly display a CDP score alongside the logo
CDP scores reflect environmental maturity across four levels:
- D – Disclosure: Data has been made public.
- C – Awareness: Environmental impacts are understood.
- B – Management: Actions are being implemented.
- A – Leadership: Best-in-class practices are in place.
Displaying a score such as "A" or "B" should always include the relevant scope (e.g., CDP Climate 2024 – Score A). This straightforward, factual format ensures clear communication without overstating your achievements or misleading your audience.
What processes should you follow to stay compliant?
CDP updates its guidelines on an annual basis. To stay compliant in your communications:
- Review the official CDP brand guide before any first use and at the start of each new scoring cycle.
- Remove the logo from all materials if your eligibility status changes or is not renewed.
- Set up a compliance review process around brand guidelines, particularly at the beginning of each CDP annual cycle.
CDP Logo — Key Takeaways
| Key Element | Essential Information | Action for Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning of the CDP logo | Represents transparency and environmental performance | Communicate consistently and accurately |
| Rights and eligibility | Logo protected by CDP's intellectual property; use restricted to eligible entities (active disclosers, A List, accredited providers) | Verify eligibility before any use |
| Graphic rules | Official guidelines published by CDP: minimum size, color usage, authorized versions | Follow official guidelines and update annually |
| Best practices | Include score, scope, and year; avoid overstatements | Follow CDP guidelines and contextualize every communication |
