In short: ISO 20400:2017, Sustainable procurement — Guidance, helps organizations of any size integrate environmental, social and economic considerations into their procurement policy, strategy and processes.
What does ISO 20400 cover?
- Principles and core subjects of sustainable procurement
- Integrating sustainability into procurement policy and strategy
- Organizing the procurement function
- Embedding sustainability in the procurement process, from planning to contract management
Is ISO 20400 certifiable?
No. It is a guidance standard, aligned with ISO 26000 on social responsibility.
Why does it matter for quality professionals?
Supplier selection and monitoring are core quality activities; sustainability criteria are now part of supplier evaluation.
Key takeaways
- ISO 20400 provides guidance, not requirements.
- It covers policy, strategy, organization and process.
- It complements supplier quality management.
Frequently asked questions
How does ISO 20400 relate to ISO 26000?
It applies ISO 26000 social responsibility principles to procurement.
Can small organizations use it?
Yes. It is designed for organizations of any size.
What are sustainable procurement criteria?
Environmental, social and economic factors considered when selecting and managing suppliers.