ISO standards have been developed with a myriad of goals in mind. There are, of course, the many obvious benefits that attaining ISO certifications bring to a company. These benefits include elements like, improved efficiency, a culture of continual improvement, higher levels of employee engagement and satisfaction, and much more. However, ISO standards have also been developed to emphasize social responsibility throughout organizations and promote both community and global engagement. With sustainability becoming a focal point in business operations – ISO standards have become a strong proponent of global initiatives. ISO standards encourage companies to do their part in contributing to a myriad of world-wide initiatives that emphasize a sustainable future full of peace and prosperity.
The global initiatives supported by ISO standards and ISO certifications were created in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) that were formed in 2015. These goals were created as an ambitious 15-year plan that targets the eradication of poverty, protecting the planet and its environment, and enhancing international peace and prosperity. ISO has published over 22,000 standards that are recognized globally and provide clear guidelines promoting international collaboration and a framework in which innovation and forward-thinking can thrive.
The Impact of ISO on A Sustainable Future
Not only do ISO standards create social-responsibility and global impact within an organization’s internal structure, but they also create channels for consumer-contributions to the internationally recognized SDG’s. Relaying impact to the consumers also brings a benefit to the business organization, as it increases brand reputation. In today’s day and age, consumers are more willing to spend money and patronize companies that incorporate social-responsibility practices and make an effort to re-invest in the communities to which they belong. Showing this type of dedication also drives customer loyalty, and repeat business, ultimately growing the company’s book of business while simultaneously contributing to any number of SDG’s.
There are a total of 17 Sustainable Development Goals that the UN has created and they range from addressing global poverty and world-wide hunger, to providing a stronger baseline of education, energy solutions, and even climate change and habitat conservation. With so many SDG’s to choose from, it can be overwhelming to consider all of them, and how any one individual, or one company can truly make a difference. That being said, however, there are clearly defined ISO’s and ISO certifications that directly apply to each SDG that UN has created. This makes it easier for a company to whittle down the SDG’s and identify the goals that make the most sense for their industry to participate in. Industry isn’t the only determinant in choosing which SDG’s a company is going to target however. Company executives, c-suite professionals, and business owners should implement practices and ISO standards that contribute to the movements to which they feel a personal connection.
To get help identifying the SDG’s and related ISO standards that are most applicable to your business, visit Glacier Consulting, and get in touch with an ISO expert today.
