What is ISO 26000:2017?

ISO 26000:2017 is an international standard that provides guidance on social responsibility. It was developed to help organizations of all types and sizes understand what social responsibility is and how it can be integrated into their operations. This standard was published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), a non-governmental organization that develops and promulgates voluntary international standards.

A Holistic Approach

ISO 26000:2017 takes a holistic approach to social responsibility, considering the impacts that organizations have on society and the environment. It emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior, respect for stakeholders, transparency, accountability, and sustainable practices. The standard recognizes that organizations are part of larger social systems and should contribute to the well-being of these systems.

Guidance, Not Certification

It is important to note that ISO 26000:2017 does not provide a certification or requirements for compliance. Instead, it offers guidelines that organizations can use to assess and improve their social responsibility performance. The standard encourages organizations to engage with stakeholders, identify their social responsibility issues, establish objectives and targets, and create processes for monitoring and evaluating their performance.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 26000:2017

Implementing ISO 26000:2017 can bring numerous benefits to organizations. Firstly, it helps improve an organization's reputation and credibility by demonstrating its commitment to social responsibility. This can lead to increased trust from customers, employees, investors, and other stakeholders. Secondly, ISO 26000:2017 can help organizations better manage risks related to social, environmental, and governance factors. By identifying and addressing these risks, organizations can enhance their long-term sustainability and resilience. Thirdly, the guidance provided by ISO 26000:2017 can help organizations identify opportunities for innovation and collaboration, leading to improved business performance and competitiveness.

In conclusion, ISO 26000:2017 is a valuable tool for organizations seeking to integrate social responsibility into their practices. Although it does not provide certification, it offers comprehensive guidance that can help organizations become more responsible, transparent, and sustainable. By implementing the principles outlined in ISO 26000:2017, organizations can enjoy numerous benefits and contribute positively to society and the environment.