ISO 59004:2024 Circular economy — Vocabulary, principles and guidance for implementation
ISO 59004 is a part of the ISO 59000 family of standards, specifically designed to foster a shift towards a circular economy. This standard provides comprehensive guidance applicable to any type of organization. It includes defining key terms and concepts, outlining a vision for a circular economy, elucidating core principles, and offering practical guidance for actionable steps towards sustainability. The standard aims to support organizations in contributing to the United Nations Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development by facilitating a transition to a circular use of resources.
Why is ISO 59004 important?
The linear model of the global economy—characterized by extraction, production, use, and disposal—has led to significant environmental challenges, including resource depletion climate change and biodiversity loss. ISO 59004 addresses these issues by advocating for a circular economy model, which emphasizes the sustainable management and renewal of natural resources. By adopting this standard, organizations can:
Deliver more sustainable and ambitious solutions.
Improve relationships with stakeholders.
Engage in more effective and efficient fulfillment of voluntary and legal obligations.
Contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Increase resilience against resource scarcity and other environmental, social, and economic risks.
Adherence to ISO 59004 enables organizations to create and share more value within society while ensuring the quality and resilience of ecosystems, ultimately supporting a sustainable future.
Further information can be found here ISO 59004:2024 - Circular economy — Vocabulary, principles and guidance for implementation