The internationally recognised standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS), ISO 9001, is being updated with a revised publication expected in September 2026. After publication, a three-year transition period will apply, giving organisations until September 2029 (subject to publication date) to update their QMS.
ISO 14001, the internationally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS), was updated with a revised publication in April 2026, with a three-year transition period, meaning organisations have until April 2029 to update their EMS.
The core requirements of both standards remain the same, with targeted updates (summarised below) introduced to reflect how the business environment has changed since 2015.
Key Changes
| ISO 9001:2026 | ISO 14001:2026 |
|---|---|
| Climate change is now considered a material business risk, and organisations must consider whether it is relevant to their QMS (as per Feb 2024 amendment). | Climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, resource scarcity and ecosystem degradation have been upgraded to a core business risks across operations, supply chains and financials, requiring stronger consideration. |
| There is increased recognition of stakeholder expectations. as requirements have increased. | Stakeholder requirements must now be considered and those requiring an EMS must be identified. |
| Ethical behaviour is now directly and more specifically addressed, from supply chain practices to data integrity. | Senior leaders must demonstrate greater accountability and are expected to take a more active role in environmental governance. |
| Quality culture has now been recognised as a critical factor, making it a leadership responsibility. | |
| A clearer structure and expanded guidance is provided for risk-based thinking. |
