Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (Global ACI) has published Global ACI-TECH-3-TR 2029-04-30 (M) Transition Requirements for ISO 14001:2026, setting out the timetable and requirements for moving from ISO 14001:2015, including Amendment 1:2024, to the recently published ISO 14001:2026.

ISO 14001 is the world’s leading standard for environmental management systems. It helps organisations manage their environmental responsibilities in a structured way, improve environmental performance and integrate environmental considerations into their activities and decision-making.

What changed in ISO 14001:2026?

Published in April 2026, ISO 14001:2026 builds on the established framework of the previous edition rather than fundamentally changing its approach. The updated standard provides clearer guidance, more intuitive navigation and stronger alignment with key environmental priorities, including climate change, biodiversity and resource efficiency. It also places greater emphasis on leadership, governance and integrating environmental management across operations and value chains.

A three-year transition period

Global ACI has established a three-year transition period ending on 30 April 2029.

Accreditation bodies are expected to be ready to assess against ISO 14001:2026 by 31 October 2026. Accredited certification bodies must submit their transition declaration and supporting information by 31 January 2027, with accreditation body transition decisions to be completed by 30 April 2027.

From 31 October 2027, new and initial accredited certifications may only be issued to ISO 14001:2026.

Organisations already certified to ISO 14001:2015 will have until 30 April 2029 to complete their transition. This may take place during a scheduled surveillance or recertification audit, or through a separate transition audit.

Supporting a consistent global transition

Global ACI transition requirements are mandatory for Global ACI Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MRA) accreditation body signatories and their accredited certification bodies operating within the applicable scope.

By establishing a common timetable and approach, Global ACI is supporting a coordinated transition across the accreditation and certification community and helping maintain confidence in accredited ISO 14001 certification worldwide.

Global ACI-TECH-3-TR 2029-04-30 (M) is available here.