AccountAbility is pleased to release the initial publication of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) relating to the AA1000 APS (2008) and AA1000 AS (2008). These FAQs are meant to respond to some of the questions raised by our current and potential standard users and provide guidance on the interpretation of the AA1000 APS and AS.

The responses for the FAQs were prepared and approved by AccountAbility's APS/AS technical committee.

It is hoped that these FAQs will help shed greater light on the use and application of the AA1000 APS/AS standards to promote sustainable development. The FAQs deal with issues related to:

  • Applying the AccountAbility Principles Standard;

  • Accepting a AA1000AS Assurance Engagement;

  • Preparing an AA1000 Assurance Statement;

  • Licensing of a AA1000 Assurance Engagement; and,

  • Monitoring of Assurance Statement Compliance.

These FAQs will be updated on a regular basis. Any questions or comments concerning these FAQs should be directed to standards@accountability.org.