International Standards pave the way to 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has a longstanding relationship with the United Nations (UN), going as far back as 1947. While the connection may not seem obvious at first, the ISO sees the creation of industry standards as a crucial factor for ensuring fair and equal practices for all. The UN endorses this view, and encourages businesses to follow ISO standards to meet their 17 Global Goals. These goals are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and cover a wide range of issues that impact human and natural life, though many have significance for working practices. The most relevant goals for businesses can be grouped into three categories: environmental impact, working conditions, and industrial practices.
Organisations that share the UN’s dedication to these aims are increasingly seeking external advice to update their own processes. The value of iso consultancy is that improvements will be supported by advisors with well-established knowledge of ISO standards and how these can help organisations reach the Global Goals, as well as their own. Achieving certification is one area that ISO consultants regularly help with, ensuring that a business’s commitment to sustainability and fairness is instantly recognisable. Though the reward of any ISO certification demonstrates this, there is a clear correlation between certain standards and Global Goals.
Environmental Impact and ISO 14001
– Climate action
– Responsible consumption and production
– Clean water and sanitation
– Affordable and clean energy
The ISO 14001 explicitly focusses on environmental management, marking an obvious connection to each of these goals. Though companies may publicly state their commitment to the broad aim of climate action, the specifics of how to apply this internally aren’t always clear. This ISO standard removes the mystique of environmental management, with criteria suitable for organisations of all sizes and industries. While some businesses are directly involved with the management of water and energy, every sector relies on these resources to power their facilities and production processes. Understanding where your business fits into this grand scheme of environmental impact can be difficult, which is where ISO consultancy comes in. The role of consultants is to assess your current status through auditing, then take you through every step of the ISO 14001 certification process. The end results are positive on all counts, as efficiency is improved, sustainability becomes a reality, and climate-conscious customers are satisfied.
Working conditions and ISO 45001
– Good health and wellbeing
– Decent work and economic growth
The ISO 45001 sets out a management system for occupational health and safety, applicable across the board. While the number of businesses achieving certification has increased over the years, the UN has identified the need for more workplaces to step up. Relevant areas they have marked for improvement include safety measures and mental health. Any organisation that meets the ISO 45001 standard will have the tools to not only meet these goals but continue to develop their practices as new health and wellbeing concerns emerge.
Industrial practices and ISO 9001
– Peace, justice, and strong institutions
– Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
– Reduced inequality
– Gender equality
Each of these goals has a broad scope, reaching across industries and into other spheres such as education and governmental politics. The part that workplaces have to play in these areas centres around the implementation of internationally recognised processes. The ISO 9001 standards have long been the hallmark of businesses that are committed to these goals, using Quality Management Systems (QMS) to ensure consistency for both workers and customers. The ISO also regularly publishes standards to support businesses with specific issues such as gender equality, as part of its effort to reach the Global Goals. Securing an accredited QMS with an ISO consultancy allows businesses to incorporate these new developments with ease, ensuring that they too are joining the UN in working towards a sustainable and fair future.
