What defines a certification mark?

A certification mark is defined as a mark that is used by someone other than the owner to certify quality, origin, or other characteristics of a product or service. This type of mark indicates that the product or service meets certain standards established by the certifying entity. For instance, if a mark is used to certify that a product is made with environmentally friendly processes, the actual producer of the product does not own the certification mark; rather, the certifying organization holds it to convey assurance to consumers about the quality or characteristics of the product.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a certification mark. An organization's membership mark pertains to affiliation rather than certification of goods or services. A trademark owner's personal goods relates to a trademark, which signifies the source of goods made by the owner. Lastly, association with recreational activities does not specifically pertain to the overall definition or use of a certification mark. Thus, the definition provided in the correct answer accurately represents the functional role of certification marks in commerce.