EcoVadis compared to other frameworks

EcoVadis vs CDP

An in-depth comparison of EcoVadis and CDP, explaining what each framework assesses, how scoring works, their differences and overlaps, and how companies can choose or combine them strategically.

Ugo Le Borgne

Head of ESG

EcoVadis vs CDP comparison showing differences, similarities, and use cases for sustainability and climate reporting.
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EcoVadis and CDP are two major frameworks for environmental and CSR assessment. While both aim to drive transparency and improve sustainable practices, their approaches, scope, and end goals differ significantly.

EcoVadis vs CDP: what are the differences?

Compared element EcoVadis CDP
Main objective Assess the quality of a company’s CSR management system Measure environmental transparency and climate, water, and forest strategies
Thematic scope Environment, Social & Human Rights, Ethics, Sustainable Procurement Climate Change, Water Security, Deforestation
Type of assessment Qualitative document-based review with a 0–100 score and medals Quantitative questionnaire scored from A to D-
Target audience B2B supply chains, SMEs, and mid-sized companies Companies and institutions reporting to investors
Methodology PDCA-based approach relying on documented evidence Unified questionnaire with 150+ questions and tiered scoring
Verification Document review by EcoVadis analysts Self-reported data with no mandatory evidence
Frequency Annual assessment valid for 12 months Annual disclosure cycle (June–September)
Recognition Widely recognised in B2B relationships Global benchmark for climate transparency
Standards alignment ISO 26000, CSRD, GRI, UN Global Compact Paris Agreement, SBTi

EcoVadis vs CDP: what do they have in common?

Shared aspect Description
Overall goal Improve corporate transparency and environmental accountability
Annual assessment Structured yearly self-assessment to track progress
Regulatory alignment Growing compatibility with CSRD and GHG Protocol
Continuous improvement Results highlight gaps and improvement opportunities
International reach Used by tens of thousands of organisations worldwide
No ISO certification Performance assessments, not official certifications
Complementarity EcoVadis focuses on CSR maturity, CDP on environmental disclosure

CDP vs EcoVadis: how to choose or combine both?

Choose EcoVadis if:

  • you want to structure a comprehensive CSR management system;
  • your customers or buyers require a CSR performance rating;
  • you are an SME or mid-sized company seeking a pragmatic, CSRD-aligned approach.

Choose CDP if:

  • you need to publicly disclose climate data to investors;
  • you aim to align with SBTi or the EU Taxonomy;
  • you want to build a robust climate transition strategy.

Combining both allows you to:

  • strengthen internal CSR governance with EcoVadis;
  • enhance external credibility and transparency through CDP disclosures.

EcoVadis vs CDP – Key takeaways

Topic EcoVadis CDP Why it matters
Main focus Overall CSR performance and management maturity Environmental and climate transparency Internal structuring vs external disclosure
Scope Environment, Social, Ethics, Procurement Climate, Water, Forests Determines the breadth of sustainability coverage
Key stakeholders B2B clients and partners Investors and external stakeholders Aligns reporting with priority audiences
Outcome Score and medal Letter grade Different reputational impacts
Best use case Structuring and improving CSR practices Publicly showcasing climate strategy Supports strategic tool selection
Combined value EcoVadis structures the approach, CDP makes it visible Business credibility and investor confidence

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