In the wake of the International Sustainability Standards Board’s (ISSB) release of IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, the IFRS Foundation and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) have reaffirmed their shared commitment to cooperate, fostering efficient and resilient global economies. Recognizing common interests, both entities aim to support economic systems on a global scale.
The ISO 14000 Environmental management and greenhouse gas emission standards have emerged as crucial tools for companies with sustainability and climate commitments. These standards facilitate the implementation of sustainability practices and align disclosures with the recently introduced IFRS S2. Companies adhering to these standards are well-positioned to effectively communicate their sustainability initiatives, aligning seamlessly with ISSB Standards.
The collaboration between ISO and the IFRS Foundation is grounded in the acknowledgment that ISO Standards provide consistent international approaches to internal sustainability management. This alignment significantly reinforces the ISSB’s goal of establishing a universal baseline for sustainability-related financial disclosures, promoting transparency and standardization globally.
Beyond standards alignment, the collaboration emphasizes a joint commitment to advancing capacity-building initiatives. Both ISO and the IFRS Foundation will lead efforts to empower organizations with internal expertise, propelling practices and reporting standards forward to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable finance.
The collaboration is expected to yield tangible benefits for organizations aligning with sustainable practices and meeting evolving investor expectations. The joint commitment to capacity building reflects a proactive approach to empower businesses with the tools necessary to navigate the dynamic landscape of sustainability reporting. Commenting, Sergio Mujica, Secretary-General, ISO said: ISO brings together experts to share knowledge so that we can support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges. Arguably, climate-related issues pose one of the greatest challenges of a generation. We are best placed to tackle these challenges when we work together, and as such we are delighted to reaffirm our shared commitment to work with the IFRS Foundation, including through capacity building initiatives.
As the global community addresses climate change and sustainable development imperatives, the collaboration between ISO and the IFRS Foundation exemplifies the transformative power of international cooperation. Lee White, Managing Director, IFRS Foundation, said: The old adage says ‘you manage what you measure’—the link between effective management processes for sustainability-related risks and opportunities and high-quality disclosures is clear. We look forward to working with ISO to highlight this link further in support of the implementation of the ISSB Standards.
This synergy signifies a substantial step towards creating a harmonized ecosystem that not only addresses current challenges but also anticipates and adapts to future needs. By integrating ISO Standards with the ISSB framework, companies can navigate the complexities of sustainability reporting, fostering transparency and accountability. Through shared expertise and a commitment to common goals, these organizations are paving the way for a resilient and sustainable global economy—one built on transparency, accountability, and responsible business practices.