Overview
ISO 17317:2026, Biodiversity - Requirements and guidelines for the characterization of native species and products derived from native species, is an international standard developed by ISO to support the sustainable characterization and management of native plants, algae, and fungi, as well as products derived from these species. The standard outlines minimum quality, safety, and sustainability requirements throughout the value chain-collection, harvesting, processing, and commercialization-while prioritizing biodiversity conservation.
This standard aims to benefit a diverse array of stakeholders, including producers, exporters, importers, regulatory authorities, indigenous and local communities, and researchers. By establishing harmonized requirements for characterizing native species and derived products, ISO 17317:2026 offers a practical framework to facilitate sustainable resource use, support biodiversity management, and enhance international trade in native species products.
Key Topics
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Characterization of Native Species
Guidance for identifying and describing the physical, chemical, and biological features that distinguish native plants, algae, and fungi, and their derived products.
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Sustainable Management
Requirements for sustainable collection, cultivation, and ecosystem management to maintain biodiversity, avoid overexploitation, and mitigate environmental impacts.
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Value Chain Traceability
Emphasis on traceability from the point of origin to the final product to ensure accountability and promote transparency across the supply chain.
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Biodiversity Management Planning
Recommendations for developing and implementing a biodiversity management plan that considers conservation, land-use, traditional knowledge, and the protection of local ecosystems.
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Quality and Safety Requirements
Establishment of minimum quality and safety parameters for products derived from native species, covering aspects such as contaminants, physical and sensory characteristics, and microbiology.
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Engagement with Local Communities
Recognizing and protecting the traditional knowledge and rights of indigenous peoples and local communities in biodiversity resource management and commercialization.
Applications
ISO 17317:2026 can be applied in a variety of practical contexts:
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Producers and Farmers:
Use the standard to implement sustainable harvesting and cultivation methods, ensuring quality compliance and promoting responsible sourcing.
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Exporters and Importers:
Align product characterization and documentation with international market requirements, facilitating market access for native species products.
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Regulatory Authorities:
Reference the standard for assessing compliance, supporting biodiversity protection along the production and supply chain, and ensuring proper phytosanitary and environmental impact measures.
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Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities:
Safeguard traditional practices and ensure equitable participation in the management and commercialization of native species.
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Researchers and Laboratories:
Apply the methodologies and quality assessment criteria for taxonomic identification, product characterization, and supporting biodiversity research and data collection.
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Consumers and Market Participants:
Access transparent product information, enabling sustainable purchasing choices and supporting biodiversity-friendly products.
Related Standards
Organizations and stakeholders working with ISO 17317:2026 may also refer to several related ISO standards and international agreements for comprehensive biodiversity and environmental management:
- ISO 14064 Series - Greenhouse gas management and reporting
- ISO 14067 - Carbon footprint of products
- Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) - Regulation of endangered species trade
- ISO 34101-2 - Sustainable and traceable supply chains in agriculture
- ISO 22263 - Requirements for managing project information (relevant for documentation and traceability)
Implementing ISO 17317:2026 contributes to responsible, quality-driven, and sustainable value chains for native species and their products, aligning with global biodiversity and sustainable development goals, and enhancing market competitiveness for organizations committed to biodiversity conservation.