Coming Soon: ISO 53001 - But You Can Get Started Today
A major development in the world of sustainability standards is approaching fast. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is developing a new management system standard: ISO 53001, designed to help enterprises systematically manage their contributions to sustainable development.
Targeted for release in early 2026, this new standard will provide a structured, certifiable approach for organisations seeking to embed sustainability into decision-making. And while it’s not final yet, its direction is clear and its significance, profound.
A New Era of Alignment
ISO 53001 is being developed in close collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), building on their shared ambition to strengthen global sustainability action. The new ISO standard will be consistent with the UNDP SDG Impact Standards, which have already established a benchmark for best practice in integrating impact management into core business and investment processes.
Social Value International (SVI) has been involved as a liaison body to ISO in this process, helping ensure that the standards remain aligned, credible, and focused on outcomes that matter to people and the planet.
To accelerate this global shift, the ImpactWorks Alliance, a newly launched initiative convened by UNDP and ISO is bringing together key players to turn sustainability commitments into action. SVI, a founding collaborator of the Alliance, is contributing its expertise in impact management and assurance to help organisations move from intention to implementation. The Alliance will play a vital role in supporting adoption of both the UNDP SDG Impact Standards and the forthcoming ISO 53001, enabling enterprises to embed sustainability into decision-making through credible, system-level change.
ISO or UNDP? Don’t choose, combine.
As anticipation builds, one key question keeps coming up:
“Which standard should I follow, ISO 53001 or the UNDP SDG Impact Standards?”
The answer: you don’t need to choose, start now with UNDP, and you’ll be ready for ISO.
Here’s how the two standards complement each other:
Timing:
ISO 53001 is not final yet—it's on track but will only be published in the first half of 2026.
The UNDP SDG Impact Standards are available now, and organisations can already begin aligning with them.
Purpose & Maturity Pathway:
ISO 53001 will offer a more familiar, certifiable path for organisations already using ISO Management System Standards.
The SDG Impact Standards represent a more ambitious framework, particularly suited for organisations looking to lead in impact management and assurance.
Certification vs Assurance:
ISO 53001 will bring the benefit of traditional ISO certification.
From July 2025, organisations using the UNDP SDG Impact Standards can gain assurance from recognizsed certification bodies. Find out more here.
Application Scope:
ISO 53001 is specifically focused on organisations.
UNDP offers tailored versions specifically for private equity, and bond issuers, with stronger alignment to broader UN values, including human rights.
What is the benefit to starting now?
If your organisation is serious about sustainable development, don’t wait for 2026. Starting now with the UNDP SDG Impact Standards:
Gives you a head start on building internal systems and culture;
Helps you prepare for future ISO 53001 certification with confidence;
Opens the door to independent assurance from July 2025.
SVI is here to support you
At Social Value International, we’re here to guide you through each step of your journey.
Working with both UNDP and ISO to ensure standards are aligned and practical
Offering tools, guidance, and capacity-building programmes for organisations at every stage;
Accrediting nearly 100 experts globally who are ready to support you in implementing the SDG Impact Standards and preparing for assurance or certification.
This is your moment to lead.
The time for talk is over; now is the moment for action. With the UNDP SDG Impact Standards already available and ISO 53001 on the horizon, the tools and frameworks to embed sustainability into decision-making are no longer aspirational, they're actionable. Organisations that act now will not only be ahead of the curve, they’ll help define what credible sustainability leadership looks like in the years to come. The support is in place, the standards are aligning, and the global momentum is real.
Join one of our programmes, connect with an expert, and start building a future-fit organisation today.