ISO, EPA, ABCDEFG…

Decoding Sustainability Double-Speak

In the world of marketing, terms like “commitment to sustainability” and “ethical practices” are often tossed around with such frequency that they risk losing their significance. To discern what’s truly meaningful, we turn to established standards like those set by ISO, the International Organisation for Standardisation.

The ISO is a clear indicator of a company’s dedication to responsible practices, both ethically and environmentally. Yet, with so many standards, understanding the impact can be overwhelming. Let us simplify:

 

Ethical Practices:

• ISO 26000: Guides companies on social responsibility, pushing them to act ethically for society’s welfare.
• ISO 20400: Focuses on sustainable procurement to ensure a company’s supply chain aligns with broader sustainability goals.
• ISO 37001: An anti-bribery standard that ensures a company operates without corruption.

 

Environmental Practices:

• ISO 14001: The gold standard for environmental management, emphasising continual ecological preservation.
• ISO 50001: Focuses on efficient and sustainable energy use within a company.
• ISO 14064: Deals with greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting efforts to minimize a company’s carbon footprint.

 

Beyond ISO, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) enforces regulations to protect our natural resources. When a company not only meets but exceeds these regulations, it showcases a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.

It’s easy to get lost in a sea of acronyms and buzzwords where some companies merely adopt green practices for show. True commitment involves embedding these practices into the very fabric of a company’s operations, aiming for real progress rather than hollow gestures.

For consumers, the key to navigating this landscape is education. Understand what certifications represent and ask questions of your brands “what’s your commitment to?” “Which EPA regulation or ISO certification is it for?”.

 

By demanding clarity and accountability, we can drive the change towards a more sustainable future.

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