The British Standards Institution (BSI) has initiated the development of an independently verifiable international standard on net zero.
This landmark initiative aims to bring clarity to the net zero transition, enhance robust climate action, and accelerate progress towards a sustainable world.
The forthcoming standard, expected to be unveiled at COP30 in November 2025, will serve as a comprehensive global guide for organizations embarking on the net zero transition.
The development process will involve collaboration with thousands of experts from national standards bodies in over 170 countries. Convened by BSI and ICONTEC, Colombia’s National Standards Body, this initiative will also include a public consultation in late 2025 to ensure global input and inclusivity.
BSI will build upon the ISO Net Zero Guidelines, which it led in development and launched at COP27. The new standard will transform these guidelines into a verifiable international standard, offering clear insights into credible net zero actions and building confidence in necessary measures. This initiative aims to combat greenwashing by providing stringent guidelines and requirements to verify the credibility of net zero claims.
Despite 83% of UK businesses being committed to the UK’s net zero target, significant barriers persist, with 23% lacking confidence in meeting the 2050 deadline.
BSI’s recent research with the University of Oxford highlighted the complexities and gaps in voluntary standards and guidelines related to net zero. Despite 83% of UK businesses being committed to the UK’s net zero target, significant barriers persist, with 23% lacking confidence in meeting the 2050 deadline. Clarity on net zero requirements remains a critical issue for many organizations.
Susan Taylor Martin, Chief Executive of BSI, emphasised the importance of this collaborative effort, stating that it represents a crucial step in the global fight against climate change. She highlighted the complexity of the net zero landscape and the urgent need for clear, credible standards to turn ambition into actionable progress.
BSI has a longstanding history of pioneering environmental standards, including the world’s first environmental management standard in 1992.
Roberto Montoya, CEO of ICONTEC, underscored the responsibility of developing a credible and transparent International Standard for Net Zero, inviting global participation to establish robust requirements for achieving net zero.
Experts interested in contributing to the development of this standard are encouraged to join their National Standard Body’s climate change management committee through their country’s ISO member.