> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://knowledge.adsgroup.org.uk/8RnoQ2Y1ZgHQnhYYpqoO/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://knowledge.adsgroup.org.uk/8RnoQ2Y1ZgHQnhYYpqoO/esg-pillar/assessment-guide/evidence-requirements-by-domain-and-level.md).
# Evidence Requirements (by Domain and Level)
The ESG Pillar assessment places increasing importance on evidence as you progress from Bronze to Gold. While Bronze is designed to be accessible and exploratory, Silver and Gold levels require more structured documentation to verify maturity and readiness.
## 🟤 Bronze – Entry-Level: No Evidence Required
Bronze is a self-declared, entry-level assessment designed to raise awareness and encourage engagement. At this stage:
* No formal evidence submission is required.
* Responses should reflect an honest internal reflection.
* You may choose to add internal comments, but this is optional.
* Ideal for organisations new to ESG or just beginning their maturity journey.
***
## ⚪ Silver – Intermediate: Light Evidence Sampling
At Silver level, maturity is expected to be embedded in core processes — and supported by early documentation. Evidence is not required for every question, but will typically include:
**Environmental (Selected Examples)**
* GHG Corporate Annual Reports
* Environmental audit reports or process documentation
* EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) reports or process maps
* Waste tracking logs or pollution data
* Renewable energy supplier contracts
* ISO 14001 certification
**Social (Selected Examples)**
* HR policy documents and training logs
* Health & safety policies or implementation plans
* Employee wellbeing programme outlines
**Governance (Selected Examples)**
* Governance policy or ESG organogram
* Anti-corruption policy or training outline
* Board-approved ESG report or ESG summary from annual meeting
📝 *Silver moderation is conducted post-assessment on a case-by-case basis by SCS practitioners or ADS staff to ensure consistency and credibility. Not every response will be sampled, but moderation will focus on key and moderate questions.*
***
## 🟡 Gold – Advanced: Formal Evidence Required
Gold reflects a mature, externally credible ESG capability. Organisations must demonstrate not only process but performance — with evidence reviewed as part of the validation.
**Environmental (Selected Examples)**
* ISO 14064/67 alignment (e.g. audits, inventories)
* LCA reports, reduction methodologies, KPIs
* Strategy documents with baseline data and action plans
* Tool screenshots, EMS frameworks, decision logs
**Social (Selected Examples)**
* Stakeholder engagement plans or feedback mechanisms
* Public statements or coalition memberships
* Risk registers and resilience planning
**Governance (Selected Examples)**
* Meeting minutes, board-level ESG reports
* Audit scopes, compliance logs, codes of conduct
* Supplier screening tools, green finance policies
* Investment trackers, KPIs, and policy updates
📋 *All Gold submissions will be moderated. Evidence quality, traceability, and application are core to achieving and maintaining this level.*
***
## Moderation and Validation
All ESG assessments are completed through either the ADS Assessor Platform or via moderators. If your organisation meets the scoring threshold for Silver or Gold and applies for certification:
* The submission is passed to the moderation team
* Moderators (ADS or SCS staff) review selected answers and evidence
* Follow-up clarification may be requested
* Moderation focuses on consistency, credibility, and scoring alignment
🛠 *This process helps maintain trust in the ESG Pathway as a meaningful indicator of supply chain maturity — without placing an unreasonable burden on organisations.*
---
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