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Navigating the Transition: Preparing for ISO 9001:2026 and ISO 14001:2026

Aug 06, 2025

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is set to release updated versions of two foundational standards—ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)—in 2026. These revisions mark the first major updates since 2015 and reflect the rapidly changing global business landscape, including advancements in technology, heightened sustainability demands, and evolving supply chain challenges.

Current Versions and Why Updates Are Needed

The current versions, ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015, have been instrumental in shaping modern management systems. ISO 9001:2015 introduced a stronger focus on risk-based thinking and leadership alignment, while ISO 14001:2015 emphasized lifecycle assessment and deeper integration of environmental management into business strategy.
However, the accelerating pace of digital transformation, climate change regulations, and global disruptions (such as supply chain volatility) have necessitated revisions to ensure these standards remain relevant and effective.

Key Changes Coming in 2026

ISO 9001:2026 – A Forward-Looking Approach to Quality

We won’t officially know what’s changing until their release, but here’s an idea of some of the anticipated changes.
Scheduled for publication in October/November 2026, the updated ISO 9001 standard is expected to introduce several critical enhancements:
  • Expanded Risk and Opportunity Management: Organizations will need to adopt a more proactive stance, identifying not only risks but also opportunities.
  • Alignment with the most recent ISO harmonized structure (HS), ensuring consistency in terminology and structure.
  • Revise the text to make existing requirements more understandable and applicable in practis by reformulating these requirements or incorporating comment.
  • Sustainability in Quality Management: Reflecting broader ESG trends, the standard will incorporate climate change considerations into strategic planning, requiring businesses to align quality objectives with environmental goals.

ISO 14001:2026 – Refining Environmental Accountability

In view of the current status of the ISO 14001 revision, it is generally assumed that the final publication will be in 2026.
The ISO 14001 update will focus on clarifications and alignment rather than sweeping new requirements:
  • Alignment with the most recent ISO harmonized structure (HS), ensuring consistency in terminology and structure.
  • Revise the text to make existing requirements more understandable and applicable in practis by reformulating these requirements or incorporating comment.
  • Climate Change Integration: Building on the 2024 amendment, the standard may potentially formalize climate risk assessments as core components of environmental management.
  • New clause on change management emphasizing the need for structured change management in environmental management systems.
  • Transparency and Reporting: Emphasis on the importance of reporting.
Timeline and Transition Plan
MilestoneISO 9001:2026ISO 14001:2026
Draft Release (DIS)August/September 2025February 2025
Expected PublicationOctober/November 2026March 2026

What Should You Do Now?

While no immediate action is required, it’s wise to stay informed and begin considering how these changes might impact your management system. Once the new standards are published, you will have time to transition to the latest version.

Transition Rules and Timelines

The transition period is typically 2 to 3 years. The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) is expected to develop mandatory documents for the transition of certificates to the new standards wherein the transition period will be defined.

Conclusion

The 2026 updates to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 represent a significant shift in how businesses will approach quality and environmental management. By preparing early, organizations can turn compliance into a competitive advantage, ensuring they meet future regulatory demands while driving operational excellence.

How DEKRA Supports Your Transition

For more insights or support with your transition, contact DEKRA!
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