As the global demand for sustainable practices and climate action intensifies, businesses are increasingly seeking structured ways to address their carbon footprints and demonstrate environmental responsibility.
One of the most anticipated developments in this space is the introduction of ISO 14068, a new international standard focused on achieving verifiable carbon neutrality.
This standard, currently in the final stages of development, offers organisations a comprehensive framework to measure, manage, and ultimately neutralise their carbon emissions.
In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of ISO 14068, how it builds on existing environmental standards, and why it represents a critical step for organisations committed to sustainability.
What is ISO 14068?
ISO 14068 is designed to be the global benchmark for carbon neutrality, providing businesses with the principles, requirements, and guidelines needed to define, reduce, and neutralise their carbon emissions.
It aims to standardise the approach organisations take in becoming carbon-neutral, ensuring consistency, reliability, and accountability in their efforts.
The focus of ISO 14068 is not merely on carbon reporting but on carbon neutrality—the ultimate goal of balancing the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere with an equivalent amount removed or offset.
For companies striving to become net zero, this standard outlines a clear, verifiable path to do so.
A Step Beyond Existing Standards
Many businesses are already familiar with ISO 14001, the well-established standard for environmental management systems (EMS).
While ISO 14001 focuses broadly on managing and improving environmental performance, ISO 14068 takes a more focused approach.
It is dedicated to carbon neutrality and provides businesses with a framework to calculate, reduce, and offset carbon emissions, ensuring long-term environmental benefits.
ISO 14068 also aligns with other standards, such as ISO 50001 for energy management and ISO 14064 for greenhouse gas emissions accounting, making it a valuable addition to the suite of tools organisations can use to meet sustainability goals.
One key distinction is that ISO 14068 goes beyond reporting and requires organisations to actively reduce their carbon emissions before considering offsetting measures.
This means companies must take measurable actions toward emission reductions and cannot solely rely on purchasing carbon credits to meet their neutrality targets.
Why ISO 14068 Matters
As businesses face growing pressure from stakeholders, regulators, and consumers to address climate change, having a standardised, verifiable approach to carbon neutrality is becoming more important than ever.
Governments around the world are tightening regulations on emissions, while customers increasingly prefer companies that demonstrate strong environmental credentials.
ISO 14068 provides businesses with several key benefits:
Credibility and Trust: Adopting ISO 14068 offers credibility to claims of carbon neutrality, ensuring transparency and trust with stakeholders. This standard will help organisations avoid accusations of greenwashing, which have become increasingly prevalent as companies rush to promote their sustainability efforts.
Future-Proofing: With governments implementing stricter regulations on emissions and pushing for net zero, businesses must be prepared for upcoming requirements. By adopting ISO 14068 early, organisations can ensure they are ahead of the curve and compliant with future climate policies.
Competitive Advantage: Companies that can demonstrate progress toward carbon neutrality stand out in an increasingly carbon-conscious market. ISO 14068 certification provides a clear, recognisable marker of sustainability leadership, giving businesses a competitive edge over their peers.
Preparing for ISO 14068 and Beyond
With the potential for Phase 4 of the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) to include carbon reduction measures, ISO 14068 is expected to play a pivotal role in helping organisations prepare for future energy and sustainability requirements.
Beyond ISO 14068, companies may need to consider Net Zero commitments, which will likely involve creating comprehensive carbon reduction plans that align with standards such as ISO 50002 or EN 16247 for energy audits.
ISO 14068 will provide organisations with a roadmap for the future, offering clear guidelines for achieving carbon neutrality while ensuring their business operations align with broader sustainability objectives.
How TEST Consulting Can Help
At TEST Consulting, we recognise the growing importance of ISO 14068 in the journey toward net zero. As an experienced consultancy in energy efficiency and sustainability, we help businesses prepare for and implement ISO standards.
Whether you’re looking to assess your current carbon footprint, develop a carbon reduction plan, or navigate the complexities of carbon neutrality, our team can support you every step of the way.
By working with us, you can ensure your organisation is ready for the new ISO 14068 standard and poised to lead in sustainability.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help your business achieve carbon neutrality and stay ahead in the fast-evolving environmental landscape.
Tel: 0113 467 7650
Email: info@test-consulting.co.uk
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