ISO 14001 is changing.
Here's what it means
for your business.
From 15 April 2026, the global standard for environmental management systems is being updated. Whether you're already certified or considering ISO 14001 for the first time, IMSM — WorkNest's sister company — is here to make the process simple.
- Already certified? IMSM will manage your transition to the updated standard
- New to ISO 14001? With the new financial year approaching, now is the ideal time to get certified
- ISO 14001 is one of the most requested standards across supply chains and public sector procurement
- ISO 9001 update also expected September 2026 — plan ahead for both
Request a call back from an ISO specialist
We'll be in touch within 1 business day
Which situation describes you?
Two paths. One trusted partner.
Wherever your organisation currently sits with ISO 14001, IMSM has a fully managed route to get you where you need to be.
Already ISO 14001 certified?
The updated standard arrives on 15 April 2026 and all existing certificate holders must transition within a three-year window. IMSM's managed transition service handles the gap analysis, documentation updates, and recertification — so you stay compliant without the headache.
→ Transition package available from April 2026
New to ISO 14001?
With the new financial year on the horizon, this is the perfect moment to get certified. ISO 14001 is one of the most commonly requested standards across supply chains and is increasingly required by local and national government organisations.
→ Get certified before the standard changes
Planning ahead for ISO 9001?
ISO 9001, the Quality Management Standard, is also expected to be updated from September 2026. Now is the right time to consider both transitions together — IMSM can support you on a combined programme.
→ ISO 9001 update expected September 2026
A revised ISO 14001 is expected around April 2026, replacing the 2015 edition. A transition window of up to 3 years is likely to follow. Below are the key changes your organisation needs to be aware of.
Organisations will need to explicitly consider climate change, pollution, resource use, and biodiversity when defining context and interested parties.
Full breakdownThe life cycle perspective will need to be considered when defining your EMS scope, ensuring upstream and downstream impacts are not overlooked.
Full breakdownEmergency situations will be considered when identifying risks and opportunities, not only within environmental aspects — strengthening awareness without adding significant complexity.
Full breakdown"Outsourced processes" becomes "externally provided processes", extending operational control to suppliers relevant to your EMS outcomes.
Full breakdownA new dedicated section on change management is introduced. Planned changes must be managed systematically with clear distinctions between emergency and abnormal conditions.
Full breakdownExpect a stronger emphasis on ethical leadership and greater senior management involvement in driving environmental and sustainability efforts.
Full breakdownWe'll take care of it. From gap analysis to full transition management, IMSM will guide your organisation through every step.
Key dates
The transition timeline
Three years feels like plenty — but organisations that start early avoid the last-minute scramble and protect supply chain relationships.
ISO 14001:2026 officially publishes
The new standard launches. IMSM's Transition Package — Gap Analysis + 2 days consultancy — becomes available for both existing clients and new enquiries.
Three-year transition window opens
All ISO 14001:2015 holders must transition within this window. IMSM will guide you through documentation updates, additional instruction, and successful recertification.
ISO 9001:2026 expected launch
The Quality Management Standard update follows a similar process. Contact us now to plan for both transitions together.
ISO 14001:2015 certificates expire
Organisations that haven't transitioned will hold invalid certification — directly affecting tender eligibility and supply chain relationships.
Why IMSM?
Is now the time to get more from your ISO certification?
If ISO feels like a tick-box exercise, something isn't right. IMSM's UK team of 20+ consultants have lived and breathed ISO for decades — here to make it count.
More than just a certificate
ISO certification is a proven way to win new clients, improve business efficiency, and demonstrate real value. IMSM ensures you get the most out of it — not just the paperwork.
Is your documentation UKAS-ready?
Supply chains are increasingly demanding UKAS accredited certification. We're seeing a big shift — and your documentation needs to be ready for that additional scrutiny.
Coming to the end of a fixed contract?
IMSM operates on annual rolling contracts — giving you confidence and flexibility, without being locked in for years with a provider that isn't delivering.
20+ UK consultants
A dedicated team who understand the H&S and compliance landscape WorkNest clients operate in — making the process straightforward from day one.
Fixed fees, no surprises
Transparent pricing from the outset. You'll know exactly what you're getting — no hidden costs, no scope creep.
Trusted by WorkNest
As part of the same group, IMSM shares the same commitment to making compliance genuinely simple for employers.
Why trust IMSM
The UK's leading ISO consultancy
Over 30 years helping organisations achieve and maintain ISO certification worldwide.
Ready to talk to an ISO specialist?
Request a call back and an IMSM consultant will be in touch within 1 business day.
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