ISO 14031:2021

Overview - ISO 14031:2021 (Environmental performance evaluation - Guidelines)

ISO 14031:2021 provides internationally recognized guidance for the design and use of Environmental Performance Evaluation (EPE) within any organization - regardless of type, size, location or complexity. It describes an EPE process to measure, evaluate and communicate environmental performance using reliable information and key performance indicators (KPIs). The standard is a guidance document: it does not set performance levels and is not intended to create EMS conformity requirements. It is a generic standard and recommends seeking sector‑specific methods where needed.

Key topics and technical scope

ISO 14031:2021 organizes EPE around a structured process and technical topics such as:

• EPE process and principles for systematic evaluation
• Indicators for EPE (selection and use of KPIs to represent performance)
• Planning EPE (Plan) - defining objectives, scope and indicator design
• Using data and information (Do) - collecting, analysing and converting data
• Evaluating information and reporting (Review & Act) - interpreting results, communicating and improving EPE
• Guidance on data collection, analysis, validation, trend analysis and stakeholder reporting
• Annexes offering supplemental guidance and references to related ISO standards

Note: the standard does not prescribe specific indicators or weighting methods; organizations choose KPIs appropriate to their activities and context.

Practical applications - who uses ISO 14031 and why

ISO 14031 is practical for organizations and professionals seeking to monitor, demonstrate and improve environmental performance:

• Sustainability and EHS managers developing environmental KPIs and reporting systems
• Compliance officers measuring progress against legal and corporate commitments
• EMS implementers using EPE to support ISO 14001 objectives and continual improvement
• Auditors and consultants designing performance dashboards, trend analysis and stakeholder communications
• SMEs to multinational enterprises seeking consistent, transparent performance evaluation Typical uses include performance trend analysis, internal and external reporting, decision support for pollution prevention, resource efficiency programs, supplier and product performance assessment, and integration with LCA (ISO 14040/14044).

Related standards

ISO 14031 complements other ISO standards in the 14000 family, such as:

• ISO 14001 (Environmental management systems)
• ISO 14004 / 14005 / 14006 (EMS guidance)
• ISO 14040 / 14044 (Life cycle assessment)
• ISO 14025 / 14024 (Environmental declarations & labelling)
• ISO 19011 (Audit guidance)

ISO 14031:2021 is an essential reference for creating credible environmental performance evaluation systems, building consistent KPIs, and supporting transparent sustainability reporting.