Developing Country Engagement Strategy
DESIRED IMPACT
Developing countries are empowered to actively contribute to the ISO system, and to benefit fully from the use of ISO standards addressing social, economic and environmental challenges.
What We Heard
During focus groups, participants from various developing countries identified several key challenges. Water management and climate change adaptation emerged as the highest priorities.
Water management issues, including quality, availability, and accessibility of water, were highlighted as critical priorities in many regions. Climate change adaptation emerged as a significant necessity, particularly in relation to management of impacts such as flooding, water scarcity and desertification. Participants noted that there is a substantial gap in awareness about ISO standards amongst local stakeholders, including government officials, businesses and the public.
Actionable Strategies
Provide training programs on ISO standards, including new standards as they are published, prioritizing adaptation to climate change, water management, environmental management systems (EMS), land management, and carbon footprints.
Facilitate communities of practice (COPs) and interactive exchange of information using professional networking platforms like LinkedIn and by organizing regular web conference calls.
Develop case studies and application tools for ISO environmental management standards in priority fields, including adaptation to climate change, water management and environmental management systems.
Facilitate workshops with policymakers through National Standards Bodies to enhance policymakers’ understanding of the technical content of ISO environmental management standards and the ways in which ISO standards can be leveraged to advance policy objectives.
Enhance communication strategies by using digital platforms to disseminate information and create targeted awareness campaigns ensuring materials are accessible in local languages, including when new standards are published.