Green trees

ISO 53001 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Management System

ISO 53001 provides a framework for organizations to systematically manage, improve, and demonstrate their contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Receive a quote tailored to your needs

+31 088 998 44 00 Contact us Get a quote

Who is ISO 53001 for?

ISO 53001 is suitable for organizations of all sizes and sectors seeking to align their operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It is particularly relevant for businesses, public sector bodies, NGOs, and institutions aiming to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and responsible governance.

What is it and what it includes?

ISO 53001 is an international standard that sets out the requirements for a management system focused on the United Nations SDGs. The standard helps organizations systematically manage their sustainability objectives, improve performance, and fulfill compliance obligations. Kiwa’s service includes a comprehensive certification process, from initial gap analysis and system implementation support to independent auditing and ongoing surveillance, ensuring organizations can confidently measure and report their SDG-related progress. 

Benefits of the Service 

  • Demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainable development and the SDGs.
  • Enhances organizational reputation and stakeholder confidence.
  • Supports compliyeance with emerging sustainability reporting requirements.
  • Provides a structured approach to managing and improving SDG performance.
  • Facilitates integration with other management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001).
  • Enables robust, credible reporting on sustainability initiatives.
  • Reduces risk of reputational or operational issues related to sustainability. 

Why choose Kiwa?

Kiwa is recognized for its expertise and independence in management system certification. With extensive experience in sustainability standards and a global presence, Kiwa offers reliable, impartial assessment and support throughout the ISO 53001 certification journey.

Clients benefit from Kiwa’s in-depth knowledge of SDG frameworks, commitment to quality, and tailored guidance, ensuring a smooth and credible certification process that adds real value to organizational sustainability efforts.

Glass building surrounded by green trees and sun light

Steps in the process

    Initial assessment

    Review current practices and identify gaps against ISO 53001 requirements.

    System development

    Support in designing and implementing an SDG management system tailored to organizational needs.

    Internal audit

    Conduct a pre-certification audit to ensure readiness and address any non-conformities.

    Certification audit

    Independent evaluation of the management system’s effectiveness and compliance with ISO 53001.

    Ongoing surveillance

Applicable norms and regulations

  • ISO 53001: Management systems for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — Requirements (under publication, expected 2026)
  • ISO/UNDP PAS 53002: Guidelines for contributing to the UN SDGs
  • Related frameworks: UN SDGs, ESG reporting standards

Frequently asked questions

What is ISO 53001 and why is it important?

ISO 53001 is an international standard that helps organizations manage and improve their contribution to the United Nations SDGs. It provides a structured approach to sustainability, supporting compliance and stakeholder trust.

Who can benefit from ISO 53001 certification?

Any organization, regardless of size or sector, that wants to align its operations with the SDGs and demonstrate responsible, sustainable practices can benefit from ISO 53001 certification.

How does ISO 53001 relate to other management system standards?

ISO 53001 is designed to integrate with existing management systems such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment), and ISO 45001 (health and safety), enabling a holistic approach to organizational management.

What are the main steps in achieving ISO 53001 certification?

The process includes an initial assessment, system development, internal audit, certification audit, and ongoing surveillance to ensure continual improvement and compliance. 

Is ISO 53001 certification mandatory?

No, ISO 53001 certification is voluntary, but it provides recognized assurance of an organization’s commitment to the SDGs and can support compliance with emerging sustainability regulations. 

Related services