When Will ISO 14001:2015 Be Revised?
ISO 14001, the internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems, is currently undergoing a formal revision. A Draft International Standard (DIS) was released in February 2025, with the revised version, ISO 14001:2026, expected to be published in early 2026.
The revision is being led by ISO/TC 207/SC 1, the ISO sub-committee for environmental management standards. It builds on Amendment 1, published in February 2024, which introduced new requirements for organisations to consider climate change as a relevant factor under Clauses 4.1 and 4.2 (Context of the Organisation) in the existing ISO 14001:2015 standard.
What Is the Purpose of ISO 14001:2026?
The revision of ISO 14001 is intended to strengthen its role in supporting sustainable business practices and to support organisations in being equipped to meet growing environmental reporting expectations. Importantly, ISO 14001:2026 will continue to follow the consistent structure (Annex SL) applied across all ISO management system standards.
What Are the Expected Focus Areas in ISO 14001:2026?
The revision is anticipated to place greater emphasis on:
- Integration of climate change and environmental conditions into organisational context analysis
- Alignment with the most recent consistent structure (Annex SL)
- Stronger focus on lifecycle thinking and environmental change planning
- Greater attention to supply chain sustainability and value chain impacts
- Enhanced integration of environmental risks and opportunities into strategic planning
- Clearer expectations for environmental performance reporting and transparency
- Improved guidance in Annex A to encourage consistent implementation
What Is the Transition Process for ISO 14001:2026?
Organisations certified to ISO 14001:2015 will be given a transition period – expected to be up to three years – to migrate to ISO 14001:2026 once it is officially released. This timeframe is designed to allow businesses to adjust their systems, processes, and reporting practices to meet the updated requirements.
What Does ISO 14001:2026 Mean for Businesses Certified to ISO 14001:2015?
For businesses already certified to ISO 14001:2015, the revision to ISO 14001:2026 will require a review of current environmental management systems, with potential adaptations needed. Key changes are expected in relation to climate change integration, stronger lifecycle thinking, and clearer environmental performance reporting.
Beginning preparations early can help organisations streamline the transition and demonstrate leadership in sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Stay Informed on ISO 14001:2026
We will share updates on this page as the revision develops.
Register your interest below to receive updates on ISO 14001:2026 and its progress towards publication.
