ISO 14001:2026 Update

Posted on: 27/04/2026

Category: General

ISO 14001 is being revised. The new ISO 14001:2026 is expected between April and June 2026. The revision reflects increased pressure on climate change, supply chains, and environmental performance.

Key Changes

Climate Change Priority

  • Climate risks and opportunities integrated into EMS requirements.
  • Stronger focus on energy use, emissions, and resilience.

Supply Chain and Lifecycle

  • More accountability for impacts across the full lifecycle. 
  • Increased scrutiny of suppliers, subcontractors, and materials.

Alignment with ESG Reporting •

  • Closer links to ESG frameworks and disclosure practices. 
  • More robust and auditable environmental data expected.

Risk Based Thinking 

  • Wider consideration of environmental risks such as resource scarcity, biodiversity, and regulatory change.
  • Stronger integration of environmental risk into planning.

Leadership Responsibilities 

  • Higher expectations for senior management involvement.

Digital and Data Use 

  • More emphasis on monitoring, reporting, and data transparency.

Impact on ISO 14001:2015 Holders

Expect increased focus on energy, emissions, material sourcing, and supply chain control. Data capture and reporting will face more scrutiny. Leadership responsibilities will expand.

Actions to Take Now 

  • Review your EMS for gaps in climate, lifecycle, and supply chain coverage.
  • Strengthen environmental data collection and reporting.
  • Engage suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Begin planning for the transition.

SCCS will support clients with gap analysis, transition planning, and training. Once formal instruction from UKAS is received, we will begin the transition process and share timelines with all interested parties.