The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has released new international standards to facilitate the transition to a circular economy after five years of work. These new ISO standards provide a comprehensive guide for companies and organizations adopting a circular economy.

• ISO 59004: Vocabulary, Principles, and Guidelines for Implementation

The ISO 59004 standard provides an international definition for the circular economy and identifies six principles such as systems thinking, value creation, and resource management. It also defines priority actions for circular performance and presents key terminology of the circular economy.

• ISO 59010: Guidance for Business Models and Value Networks

The ISO 59010 standard aims to analyze existing business models to determine a circular economy strategy and transform these models. Through this standard, companies can transition to circular business models.

• ISO 59020: Measurement and Assessment of Circular Performance

The ISO 59020 standard offers a framework for measuring resource flows and evaluating circular performance. This standard helps companies minimize resource use and supports strategic decision-making processes.

The approval and publication of the new ISO 59000 standards are seen as significant steps in clearly defining the principles, terminology, and implementation framework of the circular economy. This progress is considered an important milestone expected by experts and companies worldwide and provides a clear path for companies wishing to transition to circular practices. By adopting the circular economy, companies will contribute to sustainable business practices and enhance the resilience of the global economy.

For more detailed information on the guides, please click:

ISO 59004-2024: Circular Economy–Vocabulary, Principles, and Guidance for Implementation 

ISO 59010-2024: Guidance on the Transition of Business Models and Value Networks

ISO 59020-2024: Measuring and Assessing Circulartiy Performance