This document specifies principles and requirements for the competence, consistent operation and impartiality of bodies performing validation/verification of declared sustainability information. This document is an application of ISO/IEC 17029, which contains general principles and requirements for the competence, consistent operation and impartiality of bodies performing validation/verification as conformity assessment activities. This document includes specific requirements related to bodies performing validation/verification of declared sustainability information in addition to the requirements of ISO/IEC 17029. Any programme requirements related to bodies are additional to the requirements of this document.