Certification for Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (CSAP)

The Certified Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (CSAP) qualification, developed in 2007 by AccountAbility and IRCA (International Register of Certificated Auditors), is the first internationally recognised professional qualification in the field of sustainability assurance. It aims to:

  • Enable practitioners to develop, validate and communicate their competence in a systematic manner.
  • Make it easier for organisations to identify credible assurance expertise.
  • Improve stakeholder confidence in the expertise of sustainability assurance professionals engaged by organisation.

The qualification is intended for those who work in CSR departments, those who work in internal audit; those who provide sustainability assurance and consultancy services, and external assurance providers who undertake assurance engagements. There are three grades of the qualification: Associate Practitioner, Practitioner and Lead Practitioner.

Associate Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (ASAP) For professionals at any  level who are not directly involved in the assurance process or for trainee assurance practitioners. As an Associate Sustainability Assurance Practitioner you have an understanding of the field of sustainability assurance. Your knowledge can include, but does require, practical assurance experience, or direct experience in stakeholder engagement. This grade is most relevant to those beginning their career in sustainability and related topics.

Certified Sustainability Assurance Practitioner (CSAP) For practitioners at any level who are directly involved in the assurance process (whether internal or external) as a team member. As a Sustainability Assurance Practitioner you have practical experience in sustainability assurance using AA1000. It will include relevant formal training and qualifications, and you will be an active sustainability assurance practitioner with demonstrable experience over a number of assignments.

Lead Sustainability Assurance Practitioner For practitioners of any seniority who are directly involved in the assurance process (internal or external) leading teams and taking responsibility for the formulation of public statements. As a Lead Sustainability Assurance Practitioner you have well established practical experience of sustainability assurance using the AA1000AS. This experience must include leading a significant number of sustainability assurance assignments or being active in the provision of sustainability assurance over a number of years.

For more information please see how to apply.

For a current list of CSAP Practitioners click here.