UNDP, ISO introduce world’s first int’l guidance for businesses to fast-track SDGs
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) have unveiled the ...
UNDP, ISO introduce world’s first int’l guidance for businesses to fast-track SDGs
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) have unveiled the world’s first international guidelines to help businesses and organizations expedite their contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This initiative marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between ISO and UNDP. In September 2023, both organizations signed a landmark Statement on Intent to enhance standards initiatives that will strengthen sustainability efforts globally. The new guidelines are the first major outcome of this collaboration.
Marcos Neto, UN Assistant Secretary-General, the UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Bureau for Policy and Program Support, said that achieving the SDG targets by 2030 necessitates collective action from all sectors, including governments, civil society, the private sector, and communities. He highlighted the critical role of the new ISO/UNDP guidelines in helping organizations understand their contributions to the SDGs and how they can be most effective.
“These guidelines will unlock greater contributions to the SDG targets by aligning business purpose, strategy, and results with societal needs,” said Mr. Neto.
“They provide essential tools for the implementation of national SDG plans, enabling contributions from both the private sector and governments. Furthermore, they reinforce accountability for organizational impacts on people and the planet while simultaneously enhancing business performance,” added Neto.
The guidelines, developed by an international group of experts brought together by ISO member for Denmark, Danish Standards, also offer a broader perspective on sustainable development. “The guidelines showcase different business models and new ways of working, both internally and externally, that will accelerate innovation and allocate resources more effectively,” said Tina Helsted Vengsgaard, Director of Standardization at Danish Standards.
“By implementing the recommendations, organizations can anticipate risks and opportunities related to sustainable development earlier and manage them better,” said Vengsgaard.
Looking ahead, these guidelines are set to evolve into the first International Standard for the UN SDGs, building on the foundation laid by UNDP’s SDG Impact Standards and relevant ISO standards.
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