First Global ISO Standard for Organizational Biodiversity: ISO 17298 Bilingual Version Released

First Global ISO Standard for Organizational Biodiversity: ISO 17298 Bilingual Version Released

The Japanese Standards Association (HQ: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Chairperson: Hiroshi Asahi) released the bilingual version of 'ISO 17298', the world's first ISO standard for organizational biodiversity, on May 15, 2026.

ISO 17298:2025 Biodiversity - Biodiversity considerations in organizational strategy and operations - Requirements and guidance

Original Publication Date: 2025-10-06

Biodiversity is essential for the health of ecosystems, economies, and local communities. As nature loss accelerates, this standard provides a critical tool for organizations to take measurable and accountable actions to protect and restore biodiversity.

### Why ISO 17298 is Important

More than half of the world's GDP, equivalent to 44 trillion USD, depends moderately or highly on nature. As risks related to biodiversity rise, regulatory, reputational, and operational pressures are also increasing. ISO 17298 helps organizations transition from 'intention' to 'action'.

### Integrating Biodiversity into Broader Sustainability Efforts

ISO 17298 is designed to be interoperable with widely used initiatives such as ISO 14001, ISO 26000, the TNFD (Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It directly contributes to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly SDG Goal 15, 'Life on Land'.

### Consequences of Biodiversity Loss

When biodiversity is lost, companies face increased operational costs, supply chain disruption, regulatory risks, and reputational risks. Taking action on biodiversity strengthens an organization's business, enables access to nature-positive finance, and builds trust with customers, regulators, and society.

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### About the Japanese Standards Association (JSA) Group

Established in December 1945. As Japan's comprehensive standardization organization, JSA engages in various activities including the development and publication of JIS, ISO, and IEC standards, provision of seminars, and registration/certification for various management systems.