Climate Action Amendments in ISO Standards: What You Need to Know

In February 2024, ISO introduced climate action amendments to several major management system standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, and more. But what does climate change have to do with information security, quality management, and other seemingly unrelated standards?

Let’s break down what’s new, why it matters, and how your organization can adapt.

What’s New in ISO Standards Regarding Climate Action?

ISO has amended 31 management system standards to address climate action, reflecting its commitment outlined in the London Declaration. These changes emphasize assessing climate-related risks and responsibilities, even in industries not traditionally associated with environmental issues.

Key Standards Affected:

  • ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
  • ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
  • ISO 27001 (Information Security Management)
  • ISO 22000 (Food Safety)
  • ISO 22301 (Business Continuity)
  • ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety)
  • ISO 50001 (Energy Management)

What Changed?

The amendment is surprisingly brief but impactful, with only two added sentences:

  1. Clause 4.1: Organizations must assess climate change's relevance to their operations.
  2. Clause 4.2: Interested parties may have climate change-related requirements.

Why Were These Changes Introduced?

These amendments aim to:

  • Recognize climate change as a critical external factor affecting businesses.
  • Support the London Declaration's commitment to combat climate change through international standards.
  • Promote organizational responsibility for climate-related issues—even when they don’t directly affect operations.

How Climate Change Affects Different ISO Standards

Climate change impacts businesses in unexpected ways. Here’s how it intersects with key ISO standards:

Standard Internal Issues External Issues
ISO 27001 (Information Security) Infrastructure vulnerability due to extreme weather Regulatory changes regarding disaster recovery
ISO 9001 (Quality Management) Process adaptability in changing environments Supply chain disruptions due to severe weather
ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) Emission control and resource availability Evolving customer expectations for sustainability

How to Implement Climate Action in Your Management System

Adapting your management system to these amendments can be done in three simple steps:

Step 1: Assess Context & Interested Parties

  • Evaluate Business Impact: Identify how climate change could affect your goals, operations, and stakeholders.
  • Update Requirements: Adjust stakeholder expectations, compliance obligations, and operational processes if necessary.

Examples:

  • IT companies may face risks from data center cooling costs or supply chain disruptions.
  • Manufacturing businesses might encounter raw material shortages due to climate-related supply issues.

Step 2: Identify Risks & Opportunities

Consider risks like operational interruptions, increased energy costs, or compliance burdens. However, also look for opportunities such as:

  • Innovation: Develop eco-friendly products and processes.
  • Brand Value: Boost customer loyalty through sustainability efforts.
  • Market Expansion: Tap into emerging climate-focused markets.

Step 3: Update Relevant Clauses

If climate change affects your business, you may need to:

  • Update compliance obligations
  • Revise operational processes and resources
  • Conduct additional staff training
  • Communicate climate-related policies internally and externally

Should You Implement ISO 14001 for Climate Action?

ISO 14001, focused on Environmental Management Systems, offers a comprehensive approach to managing climate risks. However, adopting ISO 14001 might be too broad for businesses solely looking to meet the new amendment requirements. Consider tailoring your management system to address climate issues specifically relevant to your organization.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead of ISO Changes

Climate change amendments in ISO standards reflect a global shift toward sustainability. Whether your business is directly impacted or not, assessing these risks can boost your resilience and competitiveness.

Looking for an easier way to implement ISO standards? Explore our ISO Documentation Toolkits for step-by-step guidance and ready-made templates for ISO compliance.

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