How to prepare for ISO 14001:2026

ISO 14001 will be revised in 2026

A new version of ISO 14001 is on the way. It is expected to be published mid April 2026 and will replace the existing ISO 14001:2015 standard. If you are certified according to ISO 14001:2015, it’s a good idea to stay updated.

get ready for ISO 14001:2026

Do you need an overview of the changes from ISO 14001:2015 to the upcoming ISO 14001:2026, and how to prepare your organization for a smooth transition?

Download our previously held webinar about ISO 14001:2026 (Danish)

WHY IS THE ISO 14001 STANDARD BEING REVISED?

ISO standards are regularly updated to reflect developments in society, technology, and legislation.
The revision of ISO 14001 ensures the standard continues to align with reality, for example in relation to climate, environmental impacts throughout the product lifecycle (LCA), biodiversity, and the growing ESG expectations from legislators, customers, and investors.

what changes in ISO 14001:2026?

It’s not a fundamental overhaul, but several requirements are clarified and expanded to reflect today’s focus on climate, biodiversity, and ESG.

  • Climate change is now explicitly mentioned in sections 4.1 and 4.2, and the standard is expanded with new perspectives such as resource consumption and biodiversity. This means you’ll need to consider more types of environmental impact in your context and stakeholder analysis.
  • A new clause on planning and managing changes is added. It ensures a structured approach to changes that may affect your environmental management system – e.g., new products, processes, or locations.
  • In section 6.1.2, the requirement to assess environmental impacts throughout the product or service life cycle is elaborated. A new note helps interpret how to apply the life cycle perspective in practice.
  • Previous requirements for controlling “outsourced processes” are expanded to include all externally provided processes, products, and services. This tightens requirements for subcontractors and partners.
  • The clauses on improvement and management review are merged and streamlined. The goal is to clarify how you follow up on environmental objectives and actively use the results.
  • Terminology and structure are adjusted to align with the latest Harmonized Structure, making it easier to integrate ISO 14001 with standards like ISO 9001 or ISO 50001.

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Strengthens ISO 14001

The updated ISO 14001 standard places greater emphasis on understanding the full environmental impact of your product – not just internal processes. Many companies choose to supplement their environmental management with an LCA (Life Cycle Assessment). An LCA gives you insight into where your products have the greatest environmental impact and where there’s the most potential for improvement.

Bureau Veritas conducts LCAs based on the international standards in the ISO 14040 series. We can help assess whether an LCA is right for you.

Learn how we conduct a Life Cycle Assessment →

ISO 14001 is the international standard for environmental management It’s relevant because both customers and authorities demand responsible suppliers. Companies – large and small – must be able to document their environmental efforts. With an ISO 14001 certification, you demonstrate that you take responsibility and work systematically to reduce your environmental impact.

Get ISO 14001 certified here

What does this mean for your ISO 14001:2015 certificate?

When the new version of ISO 14001 is released, there will typically be a 3-year transition period. You can continue your existing certification cycle, and your current ISO 14001:2015 certificate will remain valid throughout the transition.
A new certificate does not require a new management system – you simply need to adapt and document your changes.

How to prepare:
The transition to ISO 14001:2026 doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three concrete steps you can take to be well-prepared when the new standard takes effect:

  1. Join our course
    The ISO 14001:2026 course provides insight into the key changes to the standard and how organisations can prepare for a smooth and effective transition to ISO 14001:2026.

    Register for the course: ISO 14001:2026 – how to ensure a smooth transition (Danish)
  2. Get a GAP analysis
    A GAP analysis is an effective tool to identify where you’re already well-prepared – and where you need to adjust or update your environmental management system. Once the standard is available, we’ll help you compare your current system with the new requirements so you get a clear picture of your starting point and can prioritize your efforts.
  3. Talk to your auditor
    Auditors at Bureau Veritas are closely following the development of ISO 14001:2026 and are ready to advise you on how the changes affect your specific organization. You’re always welcome to reach out for a non-binding conversation about opportunities, considerations, and the best transition strategy.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about ISO 14001:2026

  • When will the new version of ISO 14001 be released?

    The revised edition of ISO 14001 is expected to be published mid April 2026. Once the standard is released, a 3-year transition period will begin, during which certified organizations can update their systems and have the new certificate issued. During the transition period, you can receive support and guidance from Bureau Veritas, including courses and webinars.

  • Will our current ISO 14001:2015 certificate become invalid?

    No. Your existing ISO 14001:2015 certificate will remain valid during the transition period. When the new version comes into effect, you will need to update your environmental management system and documentation to meet the new requirements. This does not require a completely new implementation. Think of it as an updated version of what you already have.

  • What are the major changes in ISO 14001:2026?

    The structural framework (High Level Structure / Harmonized Structure) remains the same, but the following updates will be made:

    • More focus on climate issues, resource consumption, and biodiversity
    • Clarification of requirements for risk assessment and planning
    • New requirement for change management
    • Expanded requirements for control of externally provided services
    • More and better guidance in Annex A – to assist with interpretation
    • Improved life cycle perspective and greater focus on continual improvement

  • Do we need to undergo a completely new certification?

    No. The transition will take place as part of your next scheduled audit. You will need to update your environmental management system to meet the new requirements – but this will be done in dialogue with your auditor.

  • How can we best prepare?

    Stay informed through:
     

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