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    Tanya Neena
    International standards can improve productivity, efficiency and innovation in developing Commonwealth countries. 
    This new CSN publication identifies case studies that demonstrate the impact of international standards and national standards bodies’ activity. 
    The case studies can be used when supporting NSB stakeholder conversations and the wider promotion of standards.
    View the case studies
    Ben Hedley
    Announcing a new report to support Commonwealth countries boost Foreign Direct Investment: 

    This CSN report provides an analysis of how international standards play a pivotal role in enhancing access to foreign direct investment (FDI).
    It offers practical recommendations for national standards bodies to support their stakeholders attract FDI, and includes sections that specifically focus on Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to help them accelerate FDI inflows and support positive developmental outcomes for their countries.
     
    Download from the CSN Library: 
     
     
    Tanya Neena
    New report available on how to support robust carbon management strategies with standards. 
    The Carbon Management Report provides guidance for national standards bodies (NSBs) to help their stakeholders take decisive steps toward building sustainable, cost-effective and low-carbon infrastructure - aligning with global climate goals and driving economic growth. 
    Access the report here to find out more.  
    Ben Hedley
    Announcing a new report to support Commonwealth countries boost market confidence, attract private investment and drive sustainable development through nature investment standards.
     
    Nature investment standards are emerging as a critical tool to address global environmental issues, by supporting nature markets that unlock private sector capital for nature recovery.
     
    Download this Nature Markets Report to gain an in-depth analysis, with case studies and recommendations.
     
     
    Download here: 
     
    Ben Hedley
    The inaugural Commonwealth Business Summit (CBS) will be hosted by the Government of Namibia and is taking place in Windhoek, Namibia from 18–20 June 2025, on the sidelines of the 2025 Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting (CTMM).
    'This landmark event will bring together business leaders, policymakers and trade experts from across the Commonwealth to explore investment opportunities, digital transformation and the strengthening of supply chains.
    The summit aims to bridge the gap between policy and business, fostering collaboration and driving sustainable economic growth across the Commonwealth.'
    More information: https://thecommonwealth.org/CBS2025
     
     
    Ben Hedley
    What’s the Difference Between Standards and Regulations?
    This short guide by BSI outlines the key differences between standards and regulations, why they matter, and how to navigate them effectively.
     
    https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/blogs/whats-the-difference-between-standards-and-regulations/?utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_content=Standards+Ed+Social&utm_campaign=uk-ks-nsb-thght-nss-ot-nsp-mp-standardseducation-0025
    Tanya Neena
    BSI and ICONTEC are co-leading the convening of the ISO net zero standard  to bring clarity, credibility and consensus on net zero action for organisations around the world. 
    Read the United Nations High-Level Climate Champions interview with ISO - International Organization for Standardization's Head of Sustainability and Partnerships, Noelia Garcia Nebra. Nebra discusses how the international standards system is mobilising thousands of experts from across 170+ countries around the world and working closely with other major standard setters to deliver the world’s first independently verifiable international standard on net zero emissions for organisations. 
     Read and find out how you can get involved.
    Tanya Neena
    A new CSN roadmap to drive foreign direct investment (FDI) in Commonwealth countries has been published. 
    Adopting international standards can drive consistency, increase investor confidence and facilitate trade. This roadmap provides practical guidance and recommendations for national standards bodies on the adoption of standards, tailored to the unique needs of developing Commonwealth countries.  
    Use this guidance to navigate key steps toward the adoption of international standards.
    Ben Hedley
    There is a free CSN eLearning for an introduction to International standards, the role of national standards bodies (NSBs), and details of wider Quality Infrastructure. 
    The module will help you to:
    Define international standards;  Explain how international standards are made; Classify different types of international standards; Understand and differentiate between different quality infrastructure components.  
    Tanya Neena
    In February 2025, a virtual capacity-building workshop was held to support the ASEAN region in strengthening cross-border e-commerce and boosting its digital economy. 
    The workshop was conducted by BSI, as part of the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office’s Standards Partnership programme. The aim was to raise awareness and understanding of the critical role e-commerce standards play in digital economy integration, and brought together policymakers, standards developers and private and public sector representatives from across 10 ASEAN member states. 
     
    Speakers from the Institute of Standards of Cambodia, the Vietnam e-commerce and Digital Economy Agency (MOIT), the Infocom Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore, and BSI experts shared insights on digital trade standards and the key areas that most effectively promote trade and foster closer cooperation among countries within the ASEAN region. 
      
    Read more about this workshop in this LinkedIn post by BSI. 
    Tanya Neena
    The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has signed a USD 1.5million partnership support agreement with Trade Mark Africa (TMA) to boost UNBS’ capacity in supporting standardization of agro-industrial products by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).  
    “To boost Uganda’s exports, capacity building for MSMEs is critical to appreciate standards and integrate them into their operations from inception.” said TMA Country Director, Ms. Anna Nambooze, at the agreement signing ceremony. 
    This is in line with the UNBS mandate of strengthening the economy of Uganda, by assuring the quality of locally manufactured products, enhancing the competitiveness of exports in regional and international markets. It also works towards TMA’s goal of providing support to enhance trade facilitation and regulatory standards. 
    Read more on UNBS, TMA and the agreement on the UNBS website. 
    Ben Hedley
    The CSN will be publishing  a series of new guidance reports to support NSBs help their stakeholders enhance their used of standards to boost:
    Nature markets Sustainable infrastructure Foreign direct investment. Click the 'Library tab and 'Publications'  for more information

    https://www.commonwealthstandards.net/library/csn-publications/
    Tanya Neena
    The Lapaha Packhouse in Tonga has secured the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) certification, a major milestone for Tonga’s food export sector. 
     
    The certification, which covers all stages of processing, from receipt to dispatch, means the facility now meets international food safety standards, opening doors to higher-value markets. 
     
    It's expected to boost exports and strengthen Tonga’s economic resilience, increasing the exports of root crops, watermelons, and coconuts benefitting over 300 farming households across Tongatapu and surrounding islands, while also creating jobs within the industry.  
     
    “This certification ensures our products meet international food safety standards, opening new market opportunities for Tongan exporters”, Hon. Kapelieli Lanumata, Minister for Trade and Economic Development. 
    Read more in this news release by Talanoa O Tonga.
    Tanya Neena
    Infrastructure development often leads to habitat loss, biodiversity decline, pollution, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. 
    The SMI Nature Risk Tool, first launched at NYC Climate Week 2024, analyses any piece of land providing expert-reviewed, detailed insights of the location’s habitat and biomes. This helps planners and policymakers create sustainable infrastructure, allowing for protective measures to be integrated into development plans and safeguard the natural environment.  
    Read about the SMI – a sustainability initiative, to support the private sector with their sustainability goals, for a greener tomorrow.
    Ben Hedley
    BSI, in partnership with Kenya Bureau of Standards, Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS), UKAS, the Ministry of Investments,Trade and Industry, and the British High Commission Nairobi, collaborated for a three-day workshop (11-13 March 2025) to address challenges faced by businesses and provided tools for a smarter, more efficient business environment, to attract investment, create jobs and support economic growth.

    Daniel Mansfield, Head of Policy Engagement, BSI, shared knowledge with Kenyan officials on the value of international standards, how they can help boost trade and led the conversation on their use in policymaking.

    “We look forward to continuing collaborating in Kenya, alongside our Standards Partnership and Commonwealth Standards Network programmes, which both have the potential to accelerate progress and unlock future opportunities to benefit consumers, organizations and governments around the world. “ (Daniel Mansfield).

    Riccardo Benvenuti, Lead Project Manager, International Projects, BSI, also provided an overview of our work in Kenya through the Standards Partnership programme, supporting local businesses, intra-African trade and creating opportunity in international markets.

     
    Tanya Neena
    Kava is a tropical plant native to the Pacific Islands. It is used to make the traditional national drink of Fiji and is widely used for its medicinal and ceremonial properties. 
    A recently adopted regional standard is helping to boost trade of Kava - it topped Fiji’s fresh agricultural exports, with $21.8 million (FJD) revenue in the first half of 2024, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, 21% higher than the same period the previous year.  
    At an FAO/WHO Coordinating Committee for North America and the South West Pacific (CCNASWP), Fiji presented the Regional Kava Standard – Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) documents. 
    The standard provides guidance for farmers, producers, and exporters across the entire value chain of Kava – from production to packaging and storage and has enabled the expansion of kava trading. It protects consumers from low-quality or unsafe kava and ensures export compliance with international standards to then expand kava markets. 
    Besides Fiji, these standards are typically implemented by other Pacific Island nations such as Vanuatu, and Tonga, with the aim of ensuring fair trade in quality kava products and protecting the health of consumers. 
    The first version of this standard positively impacted the market by expanding kava trade. The standard will continue to be refined to support the kava business and access newer markets.

    View the standard. 
     
    Ben Hedley
    On 17 – 18 March 2025 an AI Standards Hub Global Summit is being held, London and online, where industry experts will be discussing how standards shape safe and ethical AI – a necessity for economic growth, impacting society and our lives. 
    The event will explore the critical role of standards in AI governance, examining recent developments, key challenges, and emerging needs to foster global inclusiveness and collaboration in AI standardisation. 
    You can hear speakers from around the world and join sessions online including, ‘The lay of the land – international standardization for AI’ and ‘From standards takers to standards makers: Global cooperation in AI standards development.’ 
     
    Find out more, see the full agenda and register here: https://bit.ly/4kqLQFv  
     
     
     
    Ben Hedley
    A cross-sectoral survey of 48 companies carried out by BSI has shown that companies find responsible innovation standards such as PAS 440 - guide to responsible innovation, quite important. 
    This standard supports organizations in structuring their thinking and processes in respect to new products and services, resulting in innovation that will benefit society with no adverse impacts. 
    An example of this is seen in UK-based food and biotech company, MiAlgae. They adopted PAS 440 to supports their goal of providing a more efficient, low carbon and sustainable source of marine Omega-3s, reducing dependence on dwindling wild fish stocks. 
    This standard was also trialled in other early-stage biotechnology companies and its expected benefits included contributing to coordinated responsible behaviour along a supply chain; better company and stakeholder understanding of the product properties; supporting decision-making on whether or not to start a company; considering the risks of not developing the product and avoiding reputational risks. 
    Other fast-track standards for the food industry include guide to protecting and defending food and drink from deliberate attack (PAS 96) and a new document on the criteria to define 100% plant-based foods (PAS 224). 
     
    Read more: Organizations Taking Innovative Action to Fight Food Waste | BSI 
    Tanya Neena
    Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI), the national standards setting and regulatory body, is formulating 17 safety standards to prevent accidents in gas cooking used in households.  
    In a workshop held in January 2025, the BSTI Director General said a major reason for accidents in household gas cooking was the lack of awareness about safe cooking appliances. Safety standards, if implemented, will help to prevent tragedies.  
     
    Read more in this article by The Financial Express. 
    Tanya Neena
    Mauritius aims to become the first African country to implement a fully interoperable digital ID wallet, based on international ISO standards.  
    “The new Mauritius ID system stands as one of the most advanced and marks the first implementation of a fully interoperable Digital ID Wallet in Africa, adhering to international ISO standards. This positions Mauritius amongst the pioneer countries in identity solutions worldwide.”, Youzec Kurp, VP Identity and Biometrics Solutions at Thales.   

    Read more about this story.
    Tanya Neena
    According to news sources, an international water strategy launched in Malta in early 2025; benefitting families, farmers, and businesses across the Mediterranean. This includes ambitious proposals aimed at securing the region’s water supply, by speeding up the development of vital water projects and equipping local communities with the knowledge, technology, and financial resources needed to tackle water scarcity. 
    Environment Minister, Miriam Dalli has emphasised the effective use of green bonds and innovations that could reduce water bills for households, boost food production for local markets, and reinforce public health standards across the region. 
    Read more about this initiative for Mediterranean water security, in the Times of Malta.  
    Ben Hedley
    CSN 2024 Publication Reminder:
     
    Digital Trade - Guidance for NSBs
    This guide refers to the digitised mechanisms of placing products/services on the market and the digitisation of supporting processes of logistics, customs clearances, conformity assessment etc. Key Digital Trade concepts are outlined in relation to standards and Quality Infrastructure.
    The publication is available for download below, the author Alexander Rankin has also recorded a Webinar to highlight key parts of the publication.
     
     
     
    Tanya Neena
    This year’s Commonwealth Day will be celebrated on Monday, 10 March 2025, also marking the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, the executive arm of the association.
    Events and activities will also take place throughout March, including civic and faith gatherings, school assemblies, debates, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural celebrations. 

    Commonwealth Day is an annual celebration with millions involved across the Commonwealth in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific and Europe.

    Read more about the event on the Commonwealth website.
     
    Tanya Neena
    Canada Soccer has released updated Grassroots Standards, which support soccer –i.e. football – at youth level. The goal is to cultivate an atmosphere for Canadians to develop a skill and passion for the ball and build on their ability to adapt and find solutions to soccer problems.  
    The standards, associated tools and resources help set a national direction for grassroots soccer supporting a safe, fun, accessible, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment. 
    Clubs operating a youth programme will be required to align to the Canada Soccer Grassroots Standards by the start of the season 2026. 
    Read more on the Canada Soccer website. 
    Tanya Neena
    To broaden efforts to modernize public administration and ensure transparency in mobilizing public resources, the Togolese government is reforming the institutional framework of the Togolese Revenue Office (OTR) to align it with international standards. 
    On February 13, 2025, the Council of Ministers adopted a bill to improve the governance and efficiency of the institution responsible for collecting tax and customs revenues. 
    The reform seeks to strengthen the OTR’s governance, optimize its Board’s operations, and streamline administrative procedures. The initiative is also expected to strengthen the country's attractiveness and consolidate its domestic resource mobilization policy.  
    Read more in this press release from Togo First. 
    Tanya Neena
    In the Caribbean, CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) and BSI through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's (FCDO) Standards Partnership (SP), have been supporting countries in developing their national quality policies (NQP). This includes assisting the national regulatory authorities in improving their quality systems to support businesses, protect consumers, and drive economic growth by boosting export potential.
    These activities aim to enhance trade opportunities across the Caribbean. Read more about this on the CROSQ website.
     
     
    Tanya Neena
    Malaysia implements MSPO 2.0 to boost sustainable palm oil production.
    The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Standard MS2530:2022 (MSPO 2.0) officially came into effect on January 1, 2025. Improving on the first version of MSPO, this standard includes stricter guidelines for sustainability, traceability, and ethical practices in palm oil production. 
    Read more about this standard.
    Tanya Neena
    The Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS) has joined forces with local SMEs to boost the production of quality Belizean products, including coconut-based goods, honey, and hot sauces. 
    The aim is to increase sustainable trade of Belizean products through the use of international standards, which play a significant role in improving their quality. 
    As part of this, BBS in collaboration with the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth Development Office held a national quality policy workshop in 2024 for over 50 key stakeholders, including from the private sector. The event focussed on strengthening the national quality infrastructure through the implementation of a quality policy and standardization. 
     
    Know more about the Belize Bureau of Standards (BBS).
    Tanya Neena
    Synonymous to their banana industry which was deemed ‘green gold’ not too long ago, sea moss farming has been picking up pace in St. Lucia. Known for its health benefits world-wide, it is a growing export, contributing to the economy of this eastern Caribbean nation. 
    Reports from the St. Lucia Times, in September 2024 stated that sea moss export sales have surged by 11,000 per cent. To support this growing demand, it is imperative to strengthen quality infrastructure to ensure good quality sea moss is being produced and exported.  
    The Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards partnered with the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office through the Standards Partnership programme, to facilitate trade in global markets through the use of international standards, ensuring sustainability and safety throughout the value chain. 
    CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality [CROSQ], governments and national standards bodies in all member states are also working together to improve regional coordination among all the institutions and increase the use of international standards in the private sector, specifically in food safety. 
    Another initiative, by Export St. Lucia (ESL), includes creating regulations to ensure sea moss farming adheres to the highest international standards, enhancing industry reputation and supporting quality trade. 
     
    Read about the certifications required by sea moss farmers on St. Lucia Times.
    Tanya Neena
    Green hydrogen continues to gain importance as a sustainable energy source that can be produced with near zero emission. Both India and the UK share an ambition to become leaders in green hydrogen, supporting the goal of global decarbonization and a net-zero future. 
    To strengthen bilateral cooperation, both countries are collaborating on industrial and research projects and have jointly delivered several initiatives. 
    In January 2025, Indian and UK government departments, with private sector leaders, civil society representatives and international standards experts joined a workshop to explore the regulatory and standardization landscapes for green hydrogen in both India and the UK. 
    Standards play a key role in ensuring safety, quality, and reliability throughout the hydrogen value chain. 
    The event highlighted this role of standards, as well as its role in convening industry, government, and academia to develop green hydrogen, facilitate trade and drive global decarbonization efforts. 
    Read more about the event in The Economic times.
    Ben Hedley
    This year’s BSI Standards Conference will be the featured public event of the ISO Consumer Policy Committee (ISO COPOLCO) global plenary, hosted by BSI.
    The theme of the conference is 'The importance of protecting consumers in the age of AI and the role of standards in a fair society.'
    The CSN will be involved with various sessions to promote the international development perspective. There will also be a CSN stand at the conference hall - drop by and say hello! 
     
    https://pages.bsigroup.com/l/35972/2025-02-07/3t8llby
     
    Ben Hedley
    Climate change requires action across society, and standards can play a key role in facilitating this.
    In 2024, the CSN published Climate Action Guidance aimed at standards development organizations, the publication contains the following information:
    The role of standards development organizations in climate action Organizational climate action Climate adaptation in standards development Climate mitigation in standards development Civil society in standards development Conclusions and recommendations  
    The Author, Tom Cantillon has recorded a webinar to highlight the key concepts of the freely available  publication:
     
     
    Tanya Neena
    The Australian Government is positioning Australia as a global leader in safe and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI). The National AI Centre (NAIC) have developed the first iteration of the Voluntary AI Safety Standard to support these efforts.  
    The standard is a guide to best practice for Australian businesses, sectors and industries that are developing, procuring and deploying AI systems and services. 
    Read more about the Voluntary AI Standard
    Tanya Neena
    Singapore companies will have help switching to more sustainable practices as more national and international standards are launched in the next two to three years. Some of these aim to boost decarbonisation efforts in the energy and maritime sectors, while others help all enterprises better manage their carbon emissions, energy use, water efficiency and material flows. 

    Read more about this in The Straits Times.  
    Ben Hedley

    The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has urged entrepreneurs from the coast region to certify their products as a vital step for fostering sustainable business and investment. “Product certification strengthens the economy by ensuring businesses produce high-quality, safe, and reliable goods, building consumer trust and confidence". 
     
    Read more about this on the Tanzania Bureau of Standards website.
    Ben Hedley
    In South Africa, several institutes and organizations have been raising awareness of Water Efficient Sanitation Solutions (WESS) through the use of training and standards. 
    WESS includes non-sewered, off-grid or onsite and decentralised technologies, and are emerging as essential alternatives to address the global sanitation crisis.  
    They help promote sustainable water use by reducing water consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring access to clean water. 
    Product and management standards such as ISO 30500, ISO 31800, and ISO 24521 play a crucial role in the development, implementation, and scaling of WESS. 
    Learn more: https://infrastructurenews.co.za/2024/11/18/shaping-the-future-of-sanitation-how-standards-can-drive-implementation-of-water-efficient-solutions-in-south-africa/  
    Ben Hedley
    Certification scheme launched to boost cotton sector standards 
    Better Cotton, the world’s largest cotton sustainability programme, has completed its evolution into a certification scheme to drive meaningful change across the cotton sector. 
    The aim is to uphold stringent sustainability and transparency protocols and to align with new and emerging legislative requirements. 
    Read more about this sustainability initiative here  
    Ben Hedley
    World’s first international AI standards summit to be held in 2025 
    The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have joined forces to create the International AI Standards Summit, announced during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, 22 January. The joint initiative, to be led by ISO, IEC and ITU, will take place from 2-3 December 2025 in Seoul.
    This initiative follows the adoption of the Global Digital Compact by world leaders in September 2024 and is a direct response to a call to action by the United Nations to enhance Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance through international standards. 
    Read full more about this event here 
     
    Ben Hedley
    BSI launches free standard to help SMEs develop climate transition plans
    The British Standards Institution (BSI) has published an updated standard guiding the development of business net-zero transition plans, which small and medium-sized businesses can access free of charge.
    Who is the 'Net zero transition plans for small and medium enterprises'  publication for? 
    This publication (Flex 3030 v2.0:2024-12) is for all organizations, irrespective of size, type or sector, but is expected to be particularly useful to:
    SMEs (typically organizations with 5 - 250 employees), including those who've not previously been required to consider climate change; organizations that have SMEs in their value chain, to mobilize suppliers and customers; national or regional governments; local authorities; trade associations;  NGOs; banks and other lenders and potential investors; and operators of other initiatives designed to combat climate change and encourage a sustainable transition to net zero.   
    More info/download from here: 
    https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/net-zero-transition-plans-for-small-and-medium-enterprises-code-of-practice?version=standard
    Ben Hedley
    Activity is currently being delivered on some of the Pacific Small Islands Developing States (PSIDS) to boost economic growth and increase international trade, through the use of standards. 
    PSIDS rely heavily on international trade yet their remoteness and small market shares present unique challenges, impacting export levels. 
    The PACER Plus Implementation Unit (PPIU), Samoa Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour (MCIL), and Kiribati Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives (MTCIC), are working to address this, in partnership with the UK Government, and through the Standards Partnership programme. 
    Coconut products are a key element for international trade in Kiribati, where they account for 48% of the total exports and in Samoa, 15%.  
    Training has been carried out for the organic certification of coconut products, to increase the export competitiveness and increase trade for PSIDS business, while also supporting sustainable practices and preserving the natural beauty of the Pacific islands. 
    Activities also include workshops to develop national quality policies with governments. 
     
    Find out more on the SP programme 
     

    Ben Hedley
    An independent report by the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) commissioned by BSI explores how Quality Infrastructure (QI) can pave the way for innovation and accelerate progress towards a sustainable world.
    https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/whitepapers/the-role-of-the-quality-infrastructure-qi-in-scaling-net-zero/?utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_medium=Paid&utm_campaign=RSE+QI+Whitepaper
    Ben Hedley
    In support of global sustainability efforts, ISO is making the ESG Implementation Principles (IWA 48) available at no charge.
    'ISO's ESG Implementation Principles (IWA 48) is a high-level structure and set of principles designed to guide organizations in implementing and embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices within their organizational culture. This document supports the management of ESG performance and facilitates measurement and reporting under existing frameworks, enabling consistency, comparability, and reliability of ESG reporting and practices globally.'
     
    Download here: https://www.iso.org/standard/89240.html
    Ben Hedley
    The CSN since was launched it in 2018 to boost Commonwealth trade and development through the enhanced use of standards.
     
    As we come towards the end of 2024, we're keen to review impacts and plan ahead. We’d therefore appreciate your time and feedback, by completing our online survey.  Your responses will help inform our planning to provide effective support and collaboration throughout the Commonwealth.  
     
    Thank you for your support of the CSN which, as a collaborative network, relies on continued engagement from its membership to achieve its aims. 
     
     
     
    If you have any general CSN general questions, please contact: Ben Hedley, Senior CSN Programme Manager [email protected]
    If you have questions specifically about this survey, please contact: Julian Adams, Research Manager [email protected],
     
    Ben Hedley
    Commonwealth leaders gathered on 24th October for a side event to unveil the Commonwealth Investment Action Plan. The plan aims to boost trade and investment across Commonwealth member states while enhancing the economic resilience of small and vulnerable nations.

    "The Commonwealth Investment Action Plan is a fulfilment of the mandate given by our Trade Ministers to mobilise investment where it is most urgently needed.
    ......The Commonwealth Investment Action Plan builds on discussions from the 2023 Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting. It addresses key challenges many Commonwealth countries face, particularly developing and small states, in securing the necessary investment to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. This is especially urgent given the widening infrastructure gaps, climate challenges, and rising inequality."
    The CSN is included in the report as an example (p. 20) of enhancing technical support to build investment capacity and capabilities, and attractive enabling environments.
     
    https://thecommonwealth.org/news/chogm2024/commonwealth-launches-investment-action-plan-drive-resilient-economic-growth#:~:text=The Commonwealth Investment Action Plan builds on discussions from the,Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
    Ben Hedley
    The Commonwealth Standards Network is "a brilliant example of cooperating for mutual benefit” says Rt Hon David Lammy MP, Secretary of State, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, as he launches the latest phase of CSN at the Commonwealth Business Forum in Samoa.
     
    The speech can be viewed at 50m, CSN announcement at 55m: 
     
    Ben Hedley
    Commonwealth Business Forum will take place in Apia, Samoa, 23-24 October 2024.
    "The Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) 2024 is the first held in the Pacific region since 2011, and the first held in a Small Island Developing State. This year’s CBF will take a lead from its host, reflecting the objectives and aspirations of the Commonwealth Pacific and small island member states, but it will remain the premier location to engage with Commonwealth Governments and provide networking opportunities with your peers and beyond.
    Businesses will sit with governments to focus on the theme “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth”, underpinned by 5 critical thematic pillars: Access to Finance, Tech and Innovation, Reducing Barriers to Trade, Sustainability and Resilience and Transforming the Workforce.
    The purpose of CBF is to convene Commonwealth expertise to bridge the gap between government and the private sector, and to recommend and champion Commonwealth-led solutions to global challenges." https://www.cweic.org/cbf/samoa-2024/ 
     
    Ben Hedley will attend to represent the Commonwealth Standards Network at a variety of sessions including a 'Standards and Partnerships' Roundtable, and as Chair of the 'SMEs and Economic Growth' Roundtable. 
    Please contact [email protected] if you would like any further information, or to arrange meetings, or to highlight items that you would like raised at t he meetings.
    Ben Hedley
    Commonwealth Standards Network (CSN) Online Annual Meeting. (Recording available)
     
     
     Edit. Meeting recording now available:
    https://bsigroup.zoom.us/rec/play/EyMvPAcNakNs5CjBzHx3jguEqZFQG1764Se6GvQ1NCP3i_ghiOwMt6eEIYYW24B5kQZQn-LuIWAMR9PX.VqNkh9LRiRgjNuHn
     
    Passcode: 7&SC.qCE
     
    16th October 2024. 15:00-16.00 UK time (14.00-15.00 UTC/GMT)
    This meeting provides an overview of the latest CSN resources and activities and is  an opportunity to collaborate and shape the forthcoming work programme.
     
    Agenda: 
     
    CSN overview - highlighting objectives of the programme and resources available. CSN current work programme: Investment: Nature Investment Markets, Carbon Management in Infrastructure, Access to Investment (research, publications, webinars/training to enhance Investment via the use of Standards) Impact: Research/Mapping of Standards/QI ‘Impact’ (Guidelines and Recommendations for NSBs to produce Impact reports, Case Studies). CSN 2025-26 work programme planning - call for suggested activities, funding potential/options. Standards Partnership - overview of capacity building activities. Updates from CSN membership: CSN members are invited to present activities/call to action for items relevant throughout the Commonwealth, e.g. feedback/support for new ISO work item proposals,  announcements of new NSB initiatives, call to action on topics such as SMART and NSB business models. (*Please contact [email protected] if you would like to be formally added to this agenda item with a presentation opportunity). Standards Development - updates from Committee Managers: ISO TC 207 SC 1 ‘Environmental Management’ call for co-chair ISO Net Zero Standard update ISO TC 309 ‘Governance of organizations’ update. Commonwealth Business Forum and Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings in Samoa, overview of events. Any Other Business.  
     
     
    Ben Hedley
    "The CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Sharonmae Smith-Walker, MPhil, CPFS, JP, as the incoming Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st November 2024. Mrs. Smith-Walker succeeds Mr. Deryck Omar, who has admirably served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from 2014, contributing significantly to the growth of CROSQ and the advancement of regional quality infrastructure."
     
    https://website.crosq.org/crosq-appoints-new-ceo-sharonmae-smith-walker/
    Ben Hedley
    The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024 (CHOGM) will take place in Apia, Samoa from 21-26 October 2024. It will be the first CHOGM to be held in a Pacific Small Island Developing State.
     
    The Commonwealth Standards Network will be represented at a number of events, including at sessions in the Commonwealth Business Forum and side-events of CHOGM.

    'Building on progress since CHOGM 2022, leaders will deliberate on global economic, environmental and security challenges, and discuss how Commonwealth countries can work together to build resilience, boost trade, innovation, growth and empower the Commonwealth’s 1.5 billion young people for a more peaceful and sustainable future.'
    https://samoachogm2024.ws/
    Ben Hedley
    ISO/UNDP PAS 53002:2024. Guidelines for contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
     
    'The ISO/UNDP guidelines for the SDGs (ISO/UNDP PAS 53002) are a guidance document to help organizations contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They have been developed in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to provide organizations with a unified approach to systematically manage and optimize their impact on sustainable development across various operational aspects.'
     
    https://www.iso.org/standard/87945.html
     
    Ben Hedley
    BSI's Showcase Days: Towards an all-electric and connected society
    BSI welcomes IEC delegates, standards enthusiasts, policy makers, academics, students and the general public to four days of innovation and discovery.
    Dates: from the 21st to the 24th of October 2024.
    Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC).
    Registrations to our showcase days are free and open to the public.
    We're also hosting a week-long expo: meet delegates, government, and high-profile guests.
     
    Information and registration: https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/media/webinars/iec-gm-bsi-showcase-days/
     
    Ben Hedley
    BSI is currently collaborating with the Voluntary Carbon Markets Integrity Initiative (VCMI) to help them deliver a robust, transparent, and representative consultation process for their beta Scope 3 Claim.
     The Claim can be used as an additional tool for companies to act on their scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions.
     The consultation launched on 2 September and is open until 7 October. We’d be delighted if you could get involved and participate in the consultation - there are various ways you can do this:
    Participate in a series of focus groups we’re running to contribute to the refinement of the Scope 3 Claim methodology and guardrails. Please contact my colleague, Sheetal, Consulting Manager and Project Lead, for more information Provide feedback on VCMI’s beta Scope 3 Claim on the dedicated consultation platform.   
    Ben Hedley
    The Commonwealth Standards Network will meet on Wednesday 11th at 15.30 as a side evet of the ISO meetings. We will discuss the new work programme, Commonwealth collaboration, and methods for communicating the positive impacts of standards. Please let [email protected] know if you would like more information (the meeting will be in-person only, we will also hold an online meeting in October).
    Ben Hedley
    In this episode of the Standards Show @BenHedley_BSI describes the role of the CSN, its relationship with regional and global  Standards organizations and Associations, and the impact it has had so far.   https://the-standards-show.onpodium.co/episodes/commonwealth-standards-network-update 
    Ben Hedley
    BSI is hosting an online session in collaboration with Korean Agency for Technology and Standards (KATS) on how standards are critical to AI Safety on 2 May 2024.
     
    International standards play a key role in providing interoperability between legal jurisdictions and are increasingly referenced by legislation. Our expert speakers will discuss the importance of standardisation in AI technologies and how it can drive industrialisation of AI across different sectors.
     
    This session will take place in English on Zoom, we warmly invite interested CSN members and stakeholders to join. We encourage your early registration to secure a place, it’s free-of-charge via this link. Participant can submit a question for the panellist (before 29 April) and will receive a zoom link to the workshop after registration.
     
    More details are available https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:share:7188832608309424128/.
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    Ben Hedley
    The existence of gender bias in AI algorithms and standards development
    When social media platforms use AI algorithms to moderate user-uploaded images, they may inadvertently censor and suppress photos featuring women's bodies.
    Why? Because these AI tools, developed by large technology companies like Google and Microsoft, have been found to consistently rate images of women as more sexually suggestive than comparable images of men.
    Even everyday situations, such as women receiving medical examinations, are flagged as sexually suggestive by these algorithms. For example, an image demonstrating how to perform a clinical breast exam was given the highest score for raciness by Google's AI, while Microsoft's AI was 82% confident that it was "explicitly sexual in nature." This algorithmic bias has real-world consequences, particularly for female-led businesses that rely on social media for promotion.
    The algorithmic gender bias in image moderation is just one example of how systems that are based on a default male standard can inadvertently cause harm. The same issue can have far-reaching consequences in other domains. For example, in the workplace, gender-biased performance evaluation algorithms have been found to perpetuate disparities in hiring and promotion.
    The movement towards gender-responsive standards emphasizes the importance of considering how standards might have unequal impacts. It recognizes that the status quo, which often takes men as the default, is not neutral and can actively disadvantage women.
    Roadmap to gender equality in standards development
    The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) has been leading the charge in addressing gender bias in standards development. In 2016, they established the Gender Responsive Standards Initiative to integrate a gender lens into the process and content of standards.
    The initiative calls upon standards bodies to sign the Declaration for Gender Responsive Standards and Standards Development, committing to actions such as:
    Creating and implementing a Gender Action Plan to become more gender-inclusive. Increasing the representation and participation of women in standards development committees. Analyzing the gender impacts of standards being developed and using sex-disaggregated data to inform the process. Over 50 standards organizations have already signed the declaration, demonstrating a growing recognition of the importance of gender responsiveness in standards development.
    Case studies highlight the positive impacts of this approach. For example, the development of gender-responsive standards for clean cookstoves has helped address the disproportionate health risks faced by women due to indoor air pollution in developing countries.
    To support standards bodies in their efforts, the UNECE has provided detailed guidance on how to implement gender-responsive practices. This includes conducting gender-based needs assessments, setting targets for women's participation, and establishing monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress.
    The need for gender-responsive standards has never been greater. By proactively addressing biases and ensuring diverse representation in standards development, we can create a future where the benefits of innovation are accessible to all, regardless of gender.
    The movement towards gender-responsive standards is a critical step towards achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality. It is only through concerted efforts and collaboration between standards bodies, policymakers, industry and civil society that we can hope to build a more inclusive and equitable world.
    To learn more, download our recently published Gender Responsive Standards guide. 
     
    Ben Hedley
    Driving sustainable nature investment with robust standards
    As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change and biodiversity loss, investors are increasingly turning their attention to nature-based solutions.
    A recent report by Pollination, a global climate change investment and advisory firm, reveals that more than two-thirds of investors worldwide plan to increase their investments in nature-related ventures, with 75% believing that such investments will eventually evolve into a distinct asset class.
    This growing interest in nature markets is driven by a combination of factors, including the potential for financial returns, the desire to make a positive environmental impact and the increasing pressure on businesses to address their carbon footprint and contribute to net-zero targets.
    However, as nature markets continue to grow, so too do concerns about greenwashing and the lack of standardization in the sector. Greenwashing, the practice of making misleading or unsubstantiated claims about the environmental benefits of a product or service, poses a significant risk to the integrity and credibility of nature markets.
    Without clear standards and guidelines, investors may struggle to distinguish between genuine nature-based solutions and those that are merely paying lip service to sustainability.
    The crucial role of standards in building trust and confidence
    This is where the development of robust standards and frameworks becomes crucial. By establishing clear criteria for what constitutes a high-quality nature investment, standards can help to build trust and confidence in the market, attracting more investors and driving sustainable growth.
    One such standard is BSI Flex 701, the first in a suite of nature investment standards developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) in collaboration with the UK Government, devolved administrations and a wide range of stakeholders. BSI Flex 701 provides a common framework and principles for the design and operation of high-integrity nature schemes, outlining clear requirements for generating, trading and storing nature units.
    The standard is intended for use by all nature market participants and will serve as a foundational element in BSI's Nature Investment Standards Programme. As a BSI Flex, the standard is designed to evolve alongside emerging government policies and market developments, with ongoing review, discussion and improvement.
    While BSI Flex 701 is a UK-specific standard, its principles and framework have the potential to be applied more broadly across the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Standards Network will be exploring how this standard can be adapted and implemented in other member countries.
    The introduction of BSI Flex 701 marks a significant step forward for the UK's nature markets, providing a robust framework that can help to combat greenwashing, build investor confidence, and drive sustainable investment.
    Download BSI Flex 701 today.
    Ben Hedley
    CSN Publication & Webinar: Climate Action Guidance 
    Climate change requires action across society, and standards can play a key role in facilitating this.
    The CSN has published Climate Action Guidance aimed at standards development organizations, the publication contains the follwging information:
    The role of standards development organizations in climate action Organizational climate action Climate adaptation in standards development Climate mitigation in standards development Civil society in standards development Conclusions and recommendations The Author, Tom Cantillon has recorded a webinar to highlight the key concepts of the publication and the publication is available for free download: 
     
    Ben Hedley
    Organizational resilience is vital to safeguard businesses everywhere
    The only certainty in life is change. Businesses that fail to adapt to circumstances quickly find themselves in trouble, while those that invest in resilience find new opportunities in times of change.
    The forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) will be held in Samoa on 21 October 2024. This year’s theme will be resilience. How can organizations develop resilience, and how can standards help?
     
    What is resilience?
    Organizational resilience is defined by ISO 22316 as the ‘ability of an organization to absorb and adapt in a changing environment.’ This encompasses anticipation of change, preparation and response and it applies equally to incremental and sudden changes.
    Resilience is determined by four key factors:
    Governance - is there a strong system of senior management and stakeholders, that enables clear decision making, accountability and ease of implementation? Resilience - is the business as robust as it can be in the present moment, before any additional challenges come along? Are problems addressed, or left to linger? Business continuity - is the organization vulnerable to disruption, for example would operations cease if a key staff member fell ill or a piece of equipment malfunctioned? Crisis management - are there workable plans in place to deal with a crisis, which are well understood by employees, actionable and practical? To deliver these factors, an organization needs strong leadership, good risk management, a sense of its values and awareness of how the environment is changing.
     
    How does increased resilience benefit an organization?
    Clearly, resilience can help an organization when disaster strikes. For example, if part of a supply chain suddenly fails, a resilient organization might have already scoped out alternative suppliers, have a communications plan to manage any reputational impact, and a system in place to make sure that the transition to a new supplier is a smooth one.
    In addition, the process of developing resilience can be beneficial in itself. It might be that an organization looking at alternative suppliers discovers that those alternatives are preferable in some way to the current supplier. Or it might be that the communications plan flags up issues with the organization’s ability to identify and contact key audiences.
     
    CSN and resilience
     Since its inception in 2018, CSN has made resilience an important focus of its work. The principles and frameworks involved in developing resilience can be used by organizations of any size or sector. CSN will be working to ensure standards and quality infrastructure are on the agenda at CHOGM, helping to support organizations develop resilience.
    This year’s CHOGM promises to be an interesting event. Look out for updates on the discussion and any outcomes or resolutions.
     
     
     
    Ben Hedley
    The CSN has been mapping Commonwealth participation in standards development 
    The story about the blind men and the elephant has been told for thousands of years.
    A group of blind men describe what an elephant is like based on the part each one is touching. The man who feels the tusk says an elephant is hard and smooth, the one stroking its side says the elephant is soft and wrinkly, and so on.  Each man is not entirely wrong, but only has part of the picture.
    This is a familiar parable, but a useful one. By incorporating a diversity of viewpoints, we come to a fuller appreciation of the whole and a greater depth of understanding. It’s a principle that applies as well to standards development as to other areas of life.
     
    Diversity within standards development
    It is now widely accepted in the corporate world that incorporating different viewpoints is not only equitable, it is also a strategic strength. Executive teams that incorporate ethnic and gender diversity outperform those with low diversity.
    When it comes to standards development, however, diversity remains a challenge. This includes the representation of developing countries alongside developed nations.
    Around three quarters of ISO members are from developing countries, but there is still a perception that ISO and other international standards bodies reflect the priorities of developed nations. Many ISO standards have their origins in national standards developed in Western countries.
    ISO has developed an action plan for 2021-2025 to help developing countries use standards to meet key goals, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
     
    We need to know more about how different countries engage with standards
    The CSN is determined to ensure that diversity of opinion is reflected in international standards. To find out more about how standards are viewed throughout the Commonwealth, CSN is preparing a report to give more detail about how Commonwealth nations engage with standards and what the barriers are to participation.
    The report, built on data collected from a detailed questionnaire, will look at issues such as environmental management systems, governance of organizations, drivers for participation of National Standards Bodies in ISO technical and standards committees and sustainable finance.
    The report will give insights into how standards are perceived around the Commonwealth, including case studies detailing the experience of different NSBs. The findings should help CSN to ensure diversity and inclusion is at the heart of its activities. The in-depth report will be accompanied by training materials and resources to help NSBs explore the issues.
    Why diversity matters in standards for Commonwealth countries
    Use of standards has many benefits for Commonwealth countries, helping to support trade and development, reduce waste and improve efficiency, managing environmental risks, ensuring interoperability and more.
    However, for these benefits to be available within Commonwealth countries, the standards need to be suited to the needs of those societies. A standard that does not take into account the full range or perspectives across the Commonwealth is less likely to be used, or may be applied inappropriately.
    The report is due to be published next week March - check back to get your free copy.
    Ben Hedley
    Standards New Zealand - helping with accessibility for sight-impaired people
    Standards like AS/NZS 1428.4.1 play a crucial role in providing tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) to aid orientation and safety for the visually impaired in navigating busy streets.
     
    Advocating for Safer Environments
    Over 180,000 New Zealanders and 400,000 Australians living with blindness or low vision face accessibility challenges. AS/NZS 1428.4.1 was collaboratively developed to address this need, involving various experts and advocates.
     
    Encouraging Compliance
    While not mandated by New Zealand building regulations, adhering to AS/NZS 1428.4.1 aligns with broader legislation promoting equal rights for disabled individuals. It assists councils, landowners, contractors, and surveyors in integrating TGSIs effectively into public spaces.
     
    Ensuring Proper Implementation
    AS/NZS 1428.4.1 provides comprehensive instructions for TGSI installation, ensuring uniform application and promoting consistency and safety across various environments.
     
    Standardized Practices for Inclusive Access
    Following established standards like AS/NZS 1428.4.1 in TGSI installation ensures equitable and safe access for thousands of visually impaired individuals.
     
     https://standards.govt.nz/news-and-updates/standard-of-the-month-helping-with-accessibility-for-sight-impaired-people/
    Ben Hedley
    Singapore ramps up support for businesses transitioning to a low-carbon, sustainable future
    Initiatives include grants to boost energy efficiency, extend green financing, and enhance sustainability reporting. Notably, a new Sustainability Reporting Grant will aid large companies in aligning with international standards, gearing up for upcoming regulations mandating climate-related disclosures.
     
    https://www.enterprisesg.gov.sg/-/media/esg/files/media-centre/media-releases/2024/march/mr01224_supporting-businesses-in-the-transition-to-a-low-carbon-and-sustainable-future.pdf
    Ben Hedley
    South Africa Bureau of Standards (SABS)  hosted the African Organisation for Standardisation Technical Committee 59 (ARSO/TC 59) 4-8 March 2024 to discuss vital technical standardisation for the continent's automotive sector. With a focus on fuel efficiency and low emissions, discussions aim to align international standards and foster harmonisation crucial for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).   The event underscores Africa's potential to leverage natural resources for sustainable automotive solutions.      https://www.sabs.co.za/Media/docs/2024 03 04 Automotive industry in Africa.pdf
    Ben Hedley
    International Standards supporting SDGs
    The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023 makes clear that, halfway to the 2030 deadline for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), progress has not met expectations. Urgent action is required to address poverty and inequality, improve social protections, education and gender equality, and widen access to digital technology.
     
    UN Secretary-General Guterres says that ‘these shifts must be supported by strengthened national institutions, greater accountability, effective regulatory frameworks and stronger digital infrastructure and data capacity.’
     
    Standards have a crucial role to play in providing the underlying frameworks and assurance that can pave the way to progress on SDGs.
     
    What progress has been made towards the SDGs?
     
    In 2015, the UN agreed a 15-year plan to address some of the most pressing issues in the world by 2030. These issues were divided into 17 SDGS, covering everything from poverty and hunger to the environment, economic growth and strong institutions.
     
    Achieving the SDGs was never going to be easy, but world events since 2015 have created additional challenges. However, some analysts say that governmental inaction is also a major factor: the bold leadership required to change people’s habits has been lacking.
     
    According to the UN, of the 140 SDG targets that can be evaluated, half show moderate or severe deviations from the desirable trajectory. Almost one third (30%) of targets have shown no progress or have even reversed below the 2015 baseline.
     
    For governments, especially in developing countries, making progress on MDGs has to be balanced against other priorities. The long-term, open-ended nature of MDGs and the additional vision required to translate the goals into tangible, country-specific action might mean MDGs lose out to other needs.
     
    ISO standards to help meet SDGs
     
    The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published over 22,000 standards and related documents setting out guidelines and frameworks formed through international consensus. Many of these ISO standards can be used to put ideas into practice.
     
    ISO has even identified how many standards in its portfolio relate to each SDG – by far the most standards relate to SDG 9: industry innovation and infrastructure; 14,847 standards relate to this goal.
     
    For example, ISO 44001 covers business relationship management systems, which can help to facilitate business practices and relationships, while ISO 56002 sets out guidance on innovation management systems and ISO 56003 offers tools and methods for collaborative innovation partnership. Use of these standards can help to create an environment where businesses work together to become more than the sum of their parts, allowing them to innovate, grow and compete internationally.
     
    ISO standards can also help businesses to operate safely and with minimum impacts on the environment, for example by providing test methods to determine pollution levels, or specifications that help to ensure buildings are safe for users.
     
    Another key area where ISO standards can help is with SDG: Good health and Well-being. In developing countries, ensuring access to high quality healthcare is a challenge that can impact on national productivity and quality of life. ISO standards for everything from the ISO 11137 series on sterilizing healthcare products to ISO 37101 on the sustainable development of communities, or ISO 45001 on occupational health and safety, offer support for sectors and organizations looking to make improvements.
     
    Why not take a look at the ISO standards for yourself?
    Ben Hedley
    African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC)  renew their memorandum of understanding 
     
    ARSO and ITC recently signed a renewed memorandum of understanding to contribute to continent-wide efforts to establish a ‘Made in Africa’ label and boost trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
     
    "The agreement renews a working commitment between the two organizations for five years until 2028, with an updated cooperation framework reflecting developments in Africa’s regional integration efforts, underpinned by the AfCFTA, and a growing global shift towards the use of sustainability standards to demonstrate commitment to good environmental, social, ethical and food safety practices.
    The organizations will also promote regional standards in AfCFTA priority sectors and the Eco Mark Africa ecolabel. They will work together to align National Quality Policies with the Africa Quality Policy, and provide other AfCFTA support measures, including tailored training sessions for small businesses, including those led by women and young entrepreneurs.
    At the signing ceremony, ARSO Secretary General Dr. Hermogene Nsengimana said: ‘This MOU will generate greater commitment between our organizations and boost intra-Africa trade, particularly through diversified production of value-added industrial products, across all priority sectors of Africa’s economy. Together, we will accelerate standardization activities to increase the competitiveness of African enterprises, strengthen regional value chains and pave the way for Made in Africa goods and services.’
    In her remarks, ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton highlighted the role of stronger collaboration between the two organizations to strengthen regional integration and industrialization, building on improved quality infrastructure systems. Quality infrastructure services from ARSO enable AfCFTA State Parties to meet AfCFTA requirements."
     
    https://www.arso-oran.org/?page_id=64
    Ben Hedley
    A groundbreaking workplace standard
    The creation of the BS 30416 Menstruation, menstrual health and menopause in the workplace standard gives business leaders, employers and managers the tools to establish inclusive organizations.
    The stigma surrounding menopause and menstruation has stalled effective support in the workplace for individuals, leading to avoidable stress for employees and unfairness within businesses. Addressing workplace challenges related to menstruation and menopause is crucial for fostering inclusivity and fairness.  With only a small fraction of workplaces having specific policies in place, there's a pressing need for change to mitigate stress and promote job satisfaction.
    The BS 30416 standard provides a framework for businesses to create inclusive environments through measures like non-stigmatizing language, access to facilities, and flexible working arrangements. By fostering open communication and implementing practical solutions, businesses can support employees experiencing menstruation and menopause, ultimately enhancing productivity and retention.
    To deliver more positive outcomes for women's rights at work, BS 30416 contains guidance around non-stigmatizing language, access to facilities, and menstruation and menopause advocates, as well as provisions for flexible working for more severe symptoms (e.g. those experiencing endometriosis). Other practical measures cover comfortable seating, fans at desks and alternative uniforms. Open communication between employees and managers are also encouraged to remove the workplace stigma around menstruation, menstrual health and menopause.
     
    https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/case-studies/shaping-best-practice-around-menstruation-and-menopause-in-the-workplace/
    Ben Hedley
    Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and the Tanzania Police Force have joined forces to revolutionize vehicle inspections through the use of modern digital facilities.
    The partnership, marked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing, aims to enhance road safety and protect lives from potential accidents.
    TBS Director General Dr Athuman Ngenya emphasized the shift from manual vehicle inspections to employing advanced digital equipment, ensuring efficiency and safety for all road users. The initiative,  will deploy TBS experts and modern tools across the country, significantly contributing to reducing unnecessary road fatalities.
    The collaboration signals a new era of enhanced vehicle inspection, promoting adherence to safety standards on Tanzania's roads.
     
    https://www.tbs.go.tz/news/tbs-police-force-partner-on-vehicle-inspection
     
    Ben Hedley
    Business Growth Toolkit  – a series from The Standards Show - developed in collaboration with Innovate UK EDGE.
     
    The series looks at the relationship between standards and some key business issues, with particular relevance for SMEs.
    In this episode of the series Matthew speaks to Adrian Miller from The Institute of Collaborative Working about ISO 44001 – the international standard for collaborative business relationships.
    https://the-standards-show.onpodium.co/episodes/business-growth-toolkit-series-collaborative-business-relationships
    Ben Hedley
    Small yards, big tents: How to build cooperation on critical international standards. Published by Brookings 11/03/2024.
    Key points:
    "Government can and should take steps to enable greater participation from a wider range of stakeholders but, if the system of standards development for AI and other critical emerging technologies is to be led by key standards development organizations (SDOs), these organizatons will have to do the most to broaden participation." "Governments can heighten awareness of standards and participation among their own personnel and the public. Elevating the level of the leadership involved standards-related activities will help increase their visibility." "The U.S., EU, China, and other governments and international bodies have recognized a need for international engagement on standards." https://www.brookings.edu/articles/small-yards-big-tents-how-to-build-cooperation-on-critical-international-standards/
    Ben Hedley
    The Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has been granted accreditation by the International Accreditation Service (IAS) for four globally recognized Management System Standards.
     
    "A statement issued by the organisation listed the four Management System Standards as follows: Quality Management System (QMS) ISO 9001:2015, Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) ISO 45001:2018, Environmental Management System (EMS) ISO 14001:2015 and Food Safety Management System (FSMS) ISO 22000:2018.
    The remarkable accomplishment follows a rigorous assessment process conducted by IAS, verifying that the SON MSC department’s operations and audits conducted by SON auditors, comprehensively meet the stringent requirements of these international standards."   https://son.gov.ng/2024/02/28/son-msc-department-secures-ias-accreditation-for-four-4-management-system-standards/
    Ben Hedley
    The Ministry of Public Service, Consumer Affairs, and Sports and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Bureau of Standards have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on January 25th, 2024. T   his agreement aims to enhance cooperation and facilitate the exchange of vital information between the two entities. As a significant step in implementing the Consumer Protection Act No. 12 of 2020, this MOU solidifies collaboration in various areas, including the publication of standards, identification of goods and services meeting standards, and investigation of complaints. Signed by Mr. Raymond Ryan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, and Mr. Ezra Ledger, Executive Director of the Bureau, this MOU marks a milestone in ensuring consumer rights and product quality.   #MOU #ConsumerProtection #Collaboration   https://annsvg.com/index.php/2024/02/17/memorandum-of-understanding-signed-between-ministry-of-public-service-and-the-svg-bureau-of-standards/?fbclid=IwAR2GQ6h9qCC4LQPNvx0fi9tqlvxhT-wUZOTpFwkp9fZ_VK3hjyJYbUb2rLc
    Ben Hedley
    The launch of the Management System Certification Body (MSCB) marks a significant milestone for Sierra Leone, being the first of its kind in the country. Companies seeking certification for their management systems will now have the opportunity to do so through this innovative initiative. Certification fees range from $8,000 to $10,000, offering companies a valuable avenue to demonstrate their commitment to quality and efficiency.   https://slsb.gov.sl/sierra-leone-standards-bureau-launches-first-of-it-kind-management-system-certification-body-mscb/
    Ben Hedley
    St. Kitts and Nevis Bureau of Standards (SKNBS) achieves a groundbreaking milestone!   As of January 25th, 2024, it is the first lab in the Caribbean and Western Hemisphere to gain ISO 17025 accreditation in Air Quality. ISO 17025 accreditation ensures technical competence, quality, and reliability of results. Stay tuned as SKNBS aims for accreditation in three more labs by 2025, along with ISO9001 certification in 2024.   #SKNBS #ISO17025 #AirQualityAccreditation   https://sknbs.org/sknbs-receives-iso-17025-international-laboratory-accreditation-in-air-quality/
    Ben Hedley
    SCC launches Indo-Pacific standardization activities with Mongolia agreement
    "As part of the federal government’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) is pleased to announce that it is playing a key role in implementing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and receiving 2.5 million to undertake activities that will enhance trade, investment, and supply chain resilience in the region. 
    ...As Canada’s national standards body and leading accreditation body, SCC is proud to be part of this new strategy as standards and conformity assessment help reduce trade barriers and contribute to the trustworthiness and confidence of the international trading system. "
     
    https://www.scc.ca/en/news-events/news/2023/scc-launches-indo-pacific-standardization-activities-with-mongolia-agreement
    Ben Hedley
    The theme for Commonwealth Day 2024, and the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, is ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’.
    Standards and wider Quality Infrastructure play a key role in creating and maintaining resiliance. The CSN is collaborating with our Commonwealth Partners to ensure the use of standards improve resiliance throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.
     
    https://thecommonwealth.org/commonwealth-day
    Ben Hedley
    WTO Digital Progress and Trends Report 2023 available for download https://www.worldbank.org/en/publication/digital-progress-and-trends-report?cid=pub_tt_wbpublications_en_ext 
    "This report tracks global progress of digitalization and countries’ production and use of digital technologies, from digital jobs, digital services exports, and app development to internet use, affordability, quality, and more.  
    The report also highlights policy shifts and debates, with a focus on developing countries.  Two clear trends have emerged that are shaping our digital future: the importance of digital public infrastructure and the transformative emergence of artificial intelligence.
    Closely measuring digital progress, especially in developing countries, will help policy makers and the private sector best direct their efforts to close the digital divide.  "
    Ben Hedley
    The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs,has announced a $63 million funding to TradeMark Africa.
    "This strategic investment will fuel TradeMark Africa’s Strategy, covering the period till 2030, aimed at driving green, sustainable economic growth, fostering innovative trade practices, and promoting inclusive trade across Africa.............The Netherlands’ contribution will be invested in strengthening trade systems so that they benefit local exporters, foster economic growth, and create sustainable livelihoods across diverse sectors. This investment will be instrumental in improving market access for local products at the global level, in addition to bolstering initiatives that drive innovation, research, and development within the African market, enhancing competitiveness and green trading practices."
    https://www.trademarkafrica.com/press-release/trademark-africa-receives-63-million-from-netherlands-to-advance-sustainable-trade-and-economic-inclusivity/
    Ben Hedley
    Know Your Rights When Engaging a Service Provider:  As a consumer, understanding your rights and responsibilities when utilizing services is essential. When presented with a standard contract, it's crucial to review it carefully and seek clarification on any unclear terms. Additionally, you have the right to expect a certain level of quality from the products or services provided, and if they fail to meet this standard, you are entitled to seek redress.
    "On Wednesday 14th February, the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority in collaboration with the European Commission organised a Consumer Dialogue to discuss with stakeholders the implementation of The New Consumer Agenda. The Dialogue was held at the EC Representation Office in Valletta.
    The Malta Consumer Dialogue forms part of a series of Consumer Dialogues which the Commission is hosting in all EU Member States with a view to strengthening close collaboration and partnerships at both EU and national level, with the overall aim of bringing swifter and more enduring outcomes.
    In his address, European Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders  commended Malta’s high consumer confidence rate as measured through the latest Consumer Conditions Survey. He highlighted that this was also testament of the Authority’s commitment to enforce consumer protection laws. Commissioner Reynders also remarked that protecting consumers in the digital age has brought a new set of challenges and that the Commission is currently assessing existing EU consumer laws for their adequacy in addressing new digital issues such as dark patterns and influencer marketing."
    https://www.mccaa.org.mt/Section/Content?contentId=9634
    Ben Hedley
    The Mozambique National Institute of Standardization and Quality (INNOQ) has delivered  workshops 19-21st  February, to discuss its Strategic Plan for the period from 2024 to 2028. The meeting is promoted debates exploring different perspectives that are contributing to the construction of strategic goals and actions:
    https://www.innoq.gov.mz/Conteudo-Principal/Ultimas-Noticias/INNOQ-IP-REUNIDO-EM-WORKSHOP-PARA-DISCUTIR-PLANO-ESTRATEGICO
    Ben Hedley
    The Namibian Standards Institution (NSI) is one of the key performance indicators (KPI) of the country’s national quality infrastructure. 
    "The NSI is pleased to announce the ongoing implementation of the National Standardization Strategy Project. This groundbreaking initiative, funded by UNDP and EPA, aims to bolster Namibia's quality infrastructure and drive socio-economic growth through the development and implementation of robust national standards."
     
    National standardisation strategy worksjhops are taking place on 12-14 March to engage stakeholders and inform the development of the National Standards Plan:
     
    https://www.facebook.com/NSINamibia/posts/pfbid06EoepYtx2ziuVsnSzB7VVdrt1uNL3euyQJPHsS24eBjde4QBwBtsGpRy5bHeXQHYl
    Ben Hedley
    Could standards help unleash the potential of AI in the low income countries?
    Artificial intelligence (AI) provides an interesting insight into the relationship between standards and policies. AI is purported to be an historic game changer in the way that the arrival of the railway or the internet was: a force that changes the way we do everything from government to business to running an individual household.
    When this kind of change takes place, policies and standards both play an important role in ensuring that adoption of the technology is done in a way that manages risk while supporting innovation. Standards can be ussed as a powerful tool to support Policy objectives. 
     
    The potential of AI for emerging economies
    AI could have a radical impact on developing countries around the world, as a recent Economist article points out. Some of the most intractable challenges could be addressed by AI, for example:
    ●      AI chatbots could help to teach children in hard-to-reach places, reducing the workload of overstretched teachers and making learning more engaging;
    ●      Making up skilled labour shortages in specialist areas like engineering and medicine through automation of tasks such as scan assessment;
    ●      Provision of health advice in places where healthcare services are hard to access;
    ●      Giving low-cost training to workers in critical industries;
    ●      Gathering data on agricultural land to help make farming more efficient and productive;
    ●      Generating data about issues like population density to help inform government and charity activities;
    ●      Automation of form-filling bureaucracy that can be time-consuming and limits opportunities for people with low literacy.
     
    These are just a few of the potential ways that AI could help to make populations in developing countries healthier, better educated and better informed, improving quality of life and addressing global inequalities.
     
    The challenge of new technology
    The adoption of AI will be shaped by many factors. The technology comes with risks and challenges as well as opportunities. Governments around the world are grappling with the legislation, regulation and policies that will enable benefits to be harnessed, while minimizing risks. Policies might include establishing organizations to promote the use of AI, investment in infrastructure, funding programmes and more.
     
    Policy decisions require a country’s politicians to make decisions about the direction they want to take. This includes how far technology should be implemented in exchange for anticipated benefits, and where to place restrictions due to aspects such as data privacy or business continuity.
    In contrast, standards distil consensus opinion about the best way to do something. As a recent Commonwealth Standards Network (CSN) paper states, standards are typically independent of government but may form part of an overall landscape shaped by government policy. So for example, if government policy states that use of AI must place curbs on how private data should be stored and processed, standards can step in with guidance on how that goal can be achieved.
     
    Standards and Regulations can support each other
    As the CSN paper explains, good standards practices work in combination with good regulatory practices to provide a framework for progress.
     
    In the case of AI, standards might assist with:
    ●      Providing a framework for managing risk;
    ●      Setting out best practice in data controls;
    ●      Establishment of shared definitions of key concepts;
    ●      Enabling participation in regional and global markets.
     
    To find out more, take a look at our Executive Summary on the role of standards in supporting policy.
     
    Ben Hedley
    Foodborne disease is as much of a problem as malaria – how standards are helping to tackle it
     
    Foodborne diseases place as much of a burden on developing countries as malaria. The global economic burden is estimated to be over US$100 million each year, with 90% of this impacting low and middle-income countries.
     
    However, whereas the eradication of malaria is a high-profile goal, improving food safety gets less attention. The good news is that standards have an important part to play in improving food safety, and they can be adapted for anything from complex supply chains to informal local markets.
     
    The toll of unsafe food practices
    Around 600 million people fall ill and die due to unsafe food each year. In emerging economies, the problem is often complicated by pre-existing malnutrition and reduced access to healthcare.
     
    Foodborne disease outbreaks in developing countries are likely to be underreported and underestimated. Accurate data on the issue is hard to gather, making it more challenging for governments and authorities to address the issue.
     
    In addition to the human suffering involved, food safety issues have a socioeconomic impact: reduced productivity, additional strain on health systems and a detriment to trade and tourism.
     
    Tackling the issue of food safety
    This is not an easy problem to address, because it has many causes. Unsafe raw food, inappropriate storage temperature, poor storage infrastructure, inadequate cooking, poor personal hygiene, improper handling methods and cross-contamination of cooked and raw food all contribute.
     
    Foodborne disease includes bacterial infection such as salmonella, campylobacter, E-coli, listeria, and cholera. Viruses including Hepatitis A can be transmitted through food, causing lasting liver disease. Food can also carry parasites, prions (infectious agents composed of protein - bovine spongiform encephalopathy or BSE is associated with ingestion of prions). Food can also be compromised by chemicals, which may occur through mould, pollution of air, water or soil or through other vectors.
     
    Contamination of food can take place within the home, or at any point in the supply chain – farming, distribution, packing, wholesale, retail and restaurants. The challenge is partly one of awareness and improving the understanding of food safety, but it is also about infrastructure and access to refrigerated transport, clean water, reliable energy and refrigeration.
     
    Using an international standard to save lives
    There is sometimes a perception that standards from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) are intended for large corporations rather than small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), but this is not the case.
     
    ISO 22000 Food safety management helps organizations to identify food safety hazards and reduce exposure to risk. It outlines the processes that can be used to create a food safety management system (FSMS), for example by identifying hazards and putting controls in place.
     
    A National Quality Infrastructure can be used to bring about systemic change, helping to enforce regulations, raise awareness and monitor performance effectively. Find out more here.
     
     
    Ben Hedley
    The UK Government have published an 'introductory guide for practitioners interested in finding out how assurance techniques can support the development of responsible AI.'
    ISO and IEC Standards are heavily referenced in the publication as a tool to help ensure safety, security, transparency, accountability, and good governance:
     
    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/introduction-to-ai-assurance
    Ben Hedley
    "The UK will today [Tuesday 13 February] sign a partnership with Nigeria to boost trade and investment and unlock new opportunities for UK and Nigerian businesses. 
    The Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP) is the first the UK has signed with an African country and is designed to grow the UK and Nigeria’s already thriving trading relationship, which totalled £7 billion in the year to September 2023. 
    The partnership will create opportunities across a breadth of sectors crucial to both economies, such as financial and legal services.
    It will see Nigeria commit to working towards removing barriers preventing UK lawyers from practising international and foreign law in Nigeria, a step that could significantly increase UK legal services exports. It will also pave the way for further collaboration in the film and media industry and encourage world-leading UK education providers to offer high quality education in Nigeria.
    Nigeria is the biggest economy in Africa and one of the world’s fastest growing economies – predicted to be in the top 20 by GDP by 2035. It is also predicted by the UN to nearly double its population to over 370 million people by 2050"
    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-signs-landmark-economic-partnership-with-nigeria  
    Ben Hedley
    Can standards help nations make meaningful progress towards domestic ambitions?  
    A recent article in the FT claimed that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agreed by the UN General Assembly in 2015 are well-meaning but ‘doomed from the start.’  
     
    Why? Well, the SDGs, a set of 13 ambitious goals which cover everything from ending poverty to ensuring good health and wellbeing for everyone on the planet to creating resilient infrastructure, are said to be too broad.  
     
    In addition, some goals conflict with each other. Building a road network might generate economic development and improve infrastructure, but it could also lead to more pollution, road deaths, deforestation and so on.  
     
    Could standards provide an alternative approach?  
     
    Criticism of the SDGs may sound like a counsel for despair. If the SDGs are too lofty in their ambitions, what’s the alternative? The FT article argues that the SDGs ‘prioritise everything’ and therefore make progress unattainable, especially for lower income countries with limited resources.  
     
    The world of standards can point the way to a different approach. Standards are developed by experts who have experience in making change happen. They distil best practice and provide a common sense, consensus approach to a given area. In contrast to SDGs and policies that set out a direction of travel, they provide a roadmap of how to actually make real progress on the ground.  
     
    A National Standards Body (NSB) can assess a nation’s National Quality Infrastructure, develop a National Standardization Strategy and begin to develop a body of standards that work for the specific needs of that country. This provides an invaluable tool for sectors and organizations trying to improve and contribute to economic development.  
     
    How do standards help? 
     
    Standards provide guidance and support for anything from manufacturing to managing people. They help to set out criteria for testing and measurements that provide certainty and improve trust in a marketplace.  
     
    As CSN’s recent 'Roadmap for NSBs'  publication points out, standards have been proven to provide benefits at a company, sector and national level. Firstly, standards help to streamline operations, improving efficiency and reducing waste. Secondly, they help organizations to innovate and scale up, taking the next step in expansion and growth. Finally, standards also provide help to enter new markets, whether this is development of new products or a shift into international markets.  
     
    Standards enable organizations to access the wisdom of experts and experienced professionals. Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, standards users can accelerate their progress and demonstrate competence.  
     
    A comprehensive system: 
     
    When FT journalist David Pilling claimed SDGs are flawed, he was envisaging that making progress on many fronts at once would be too difficult. However, organizations around the world have found ways to balance priorities and make informed choices about their priorities. Standards systems help organizations work out challenges such as how to grow while reducing carbon emissions, or how to ensure supply chain partners meet quality requirements.  
     For each SDG, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has identified the standards that make the most significant contribution, they peovide clear pathways to help organisations to achieve SGGs.  With over 22,000 ISO standards covering almost every subject, from products through to procedures, there are many industry specific ISO standards that correspond to each of the SDGs.
     
    Find out more: 
    CSN Roadmap for National Standards Bodies ISO Standards supporting SDGs
    Ben Hedley
    The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has undertaken a rigorous operation resulting in the destruction of a staggering 837,075.07 tonnes of counterfeit goods valued at 21.8 million Tanzanian Shillings. Seized from various locations, including warehouses, hotels, and shops in Dodoma and Singida regions, the counterfeit products, which encompassed expired items and those with hazardous contents, were disposed of at Chidaya in Dodoma.
    Vincent Tarimo, TBS Central Zone quality control officer, emphasized the adverse effects of counterfeit goods on both the economy and public health. Counterfeit products, especially those with expired usage dates, pose risks ranging from short-term ailments to severe long-term diseases, including cancer. Tarimo underscored the continuous inspections across the country and urged traders to regularly assess their products for quality assurance, adhering to producers' guidelines and refraining from selling items with toxic ingredients.
    Strict legal actions will be pursued against unscrupulous traders, reinforcing TBS's commitment to upholding laws and regulations governing product quality and safety.
    https://www.tbs.go.tz/news/tbs-destroys-837-075-07-tons-of-substandard-goods
    Ben Hedley
    "Standards Australia is working to uplift the Timor-Leste standards body, IQTL, in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and its Partnership for Inclusive Prosperity (PROSIVU) program.
    The Timor-Leste Standards Uplift Initiative offers comprehensive training, fellow arrangements, and sector-specific exploration to identify opportunities for standards."
     
    https://www.standards.org.au/news/standards-australia-delivers-technical-support-to-the-timor-leste-standards-uplift-initiative
    Ben Hedley
    The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS), embracing the Circular Economy:
    In a world dominated by the linear take-make-dispose model, the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) actively promotes awareness and action towards a circular economy. The circular approach aims to eliminate product waste by keeping materials and products in circulation, addressing challenges like resource scarcity and environmental pollution.
    TTBS is engaging in key projects, including QI4CE, supporting the Circular Economy in Latin America and the Caribbean, and the National Mirror Committee contributes to ISO TC323  for Circular Economy.
    Collaborating with organizations like the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), TTBS strives for sustainable waste management, exemplified by initiatives such as iCARE, Trinidad and Tobago's first national recycling project. Together, these efforts pave the way for a more sustainable and circular future.
     
    https://gottbs.com/2023/12/12/the-circular-economy/
    Ben Hedley
    "The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) together with the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS) are set to harmonise sampling, test methods and certification processes to enhance bilateral trade between Uganda and South Sudan.
    The two National Standards Bodies have thus agreed that;
    All products covered by Compulsory Standards including cereals and cereal products  (mainly maize flour) must be certified by UNBS prior to being exported to South Sudan from Uganda. A Sanitary and Phyto-Sanitary (SPS) certificate from competent authorities in Uganda MUST accompany other products exported to South Sudan like fruits and vegetables, dairy products like fresh milk and yorghurt, chicken and chicken products, fish and fish products. A technical team from the two standards bodies to be set up to harmonise sampling, test methods and certification processes, among other resolutions.  
    https://www.unbs.go.ug//news-highlights.php?news=270&read
    Ben Hedley
    The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) and South Africa Bureau of Standards Commercial (SABS Commercial) have signeda Memorandum of Understanding. This collaboration aims to boost trade between Zambia and South Africa by promoting quality in products and services.
     
    http://www.zabs.org.zm/index.php/zabs-and-sabs-pen-memorandum-of-understanding/
    Ben Hedley
    Celebrating World Quality Day on November 9, 2023, the City of Cape Town achieved a significant milestone as its Brooklands, Blackheath, and Voëlvlei Water Treatment Plants were awarded the ISO 22000 food safety management system certification by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). ISO 22000, an esteemed international standard, specifically addresses food safety management, with a crucial emphasis on ensuring the safety of the focus product—drinking water. This recognition underscores the City's commitment to the highest standards in water treatment and safety.  #WorldQualityDay #ISO22000Certification #WaterSafety
     
    https://www.foodsafetyafrica.net/city-of-cape-towns-water-treatment-plants-achieve-international-recognition-for-water-quality-excellence/
     
    Ben Hedley
    On 11th December, ISO published this message from  President, AirVironment Canada Inc., and Chair-elect, ISO/TC 207, Environmental management:
    "Standards create change faster. Climate change is happening fast. The world does not have time to prevaricate. But ISO standards can help us make the right policies and speed up the pace.
    Standards can supercharge our climate efforts .
    It is paramount that organizations clearly report on their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and their progress on reducing them. Standards are helping to guide the development of greenhouse gas inventories, which comprehensively list GHG volumes and where they come from. As such, they are an effective tool as we work to curb emissions, because they demand verifiable evidence. This bolsters trust that climate action is action and not just rhetoric. "
     
    https://www.iso.org/contents/news/2023/12/standards-create-change-faster.html
     
    Ben Hedley

    BSI at COP 28

    By Ben Hedley, in News,

    As the UK’s National Standards Body, BSI’s presence at COP strengthens collaborations and explores partnerships to further build on the power of standards as accelerators for climate solutions.
    Standards are crucial to ensuring the net zero transition happens successfully and swiftly. The BSI delegation at COP28 has observer status and will come together with policymakers, stakeholders, and other standards bodies like ISO, to leverage the power of standards.
    BSI Calendar of COP events
     
    Ben Hedley
    Information from https://www.iec.ch/blog/road-sustainability-insights-g20-standards-dialogue
     
    "What is the main challenge in developing global sustainability standards?
    At IEC, the Standardization Management Board already emphasizes the need to analyze how our standards contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals; and one of the key strategic goals of the IEC is to foster a sustainable future. So, we have agreement on the severity of the issue. Now, the main challenge that we face is to empower technical committees which are usually focused on performance standards to also address sustainability issues. These experts have spent decades perfecting their jobs. However, they do not always have sustainability expertise. And therein lies the gap that we need to bridge.
    ......What are some of the focus areas for the development of standards for sustainability?
    Naturally, standards that accelerate the transition to renewable energy alternatives and lead to a net-zero emissions world, are important. 
    Consequently, we hope for a wider adoption of renewable energy standards, electric vehicle standards, and sustainability elements within existing performance standards for products."
    Ben Hedley

    ISO Climate Action Kit

    By Ben Hedley, in News,

    The ISO Climate Action Kit is available for download
    ISO say:
    "International Standards are a vital tool for accelerating large-scale action by governments, businesses, organizations and individuals on both climate change mitigation and climate change adaptation.
    ISO members play a vital role in advocating for policies that promote International Standards and contribute to climate action across all aspects of society. Collectively, we can provide perspectives from the real economy so that policy developments are fit for purpose.
    By sharing best practice and success stories on the role of International Standards for climate action with policymakers and regulatory bodies, we can support them to move faster, with higher levels of ambition. By demonstrating the wealth of expertise and knowledge that goes into the development of International Standards that support climate action, we can demonstrate leadership at the national and international level."
     
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