The guarantee of origin is a certification mechanism that provides proof that certain goods or products are obtained, manufactured or processed in a specific region or country. This system is paramount in international trade as it helps establish product traceability and ensure compliance with legal standards or trade agreements that require specific origins to benefit from preferential tariffs or meet specific import criteria.
In the energy sector for example, the guarantee of origin is particularly important for renewable energy. It certifies that electricity has been produced from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydroelectric or biomass. This helps consumers and businesses choose more sustainable energy sources, thereby supporting the energy transition towards systems less dependent on fossil fuels.
The guarantee of origin typically operates through certificates issued by competent authorities or accredited organizations. Each certificate corresponds to a specific quantity of product (for example one megawatt-hour of electricity) and is uniquely numbered to prevent fraud and double counting. Holders of these certificates can use them to prove the origin of their product or sell them on the market, often within a trading system.
The impact of the guarantee of origin is both environmental and economic, influencing production practices and consumer choices while contributing to a more transparent and responsible global economy. For companies, having and managing these guarantees has become an important aspect of their sustainability and corporate social responsibility strategies.