ISO/UNDP 53001:2026
Management systems for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — Requirements
Released by ISO and UNDP on 28 September 2026, ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 sets the requirements for a management system that helps an organisation optimise its contribution to the SDGs. For organisations in Ghana, UCS carries out the assessment and issues a compliance certificate, not accredited certification.
Why It Matters
How ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 Can Benefit Organisations in Ghana
ISO and UNDP designed the standard to move organisations from simply aligning with the SDGs to taking action and optimising it.
Built Into Purpose and Strategy
Embed sustainable development into your organisation's purpose, strategy and operations.
A Clear Picture of Impacts
See where your activities help progress on the SDGs and where they hold it back.
Measured Performance
Measure SDG performance over time using data you collect and review.
Informed Investment Decisions
Bring SDG considerations into business and investment decisions.
Engaged Interested Parties
Involve the people and organisations affected by your work when you assess impacts.
Fewer Blind Spots
Looking at the SDGs together reveals interdependencies and trade-offs that one-off initiatives miss.
What It Covers
What the Standard Covers
At a glance, ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 requires an organisation to address:
A summary only; refer to the published standard for every requirement.
Industries
Which Organisations in Ghana Can Apply It?
Any organisation, from small businesses to government bodies, schools, universities and civil society groups, can apply ISO/UNDP 53001:2026. Examples of sectors in Ghana include:
Simple & Clear
The UCS Assessment Steps
Each assessment for a Ghanaian organisation follows the same six UCS steps.
Application
Submit your application to initiate the certification process.
Certification Agreement
A formal agreement will be shared for your review and signature prior to commencement.
Stage 1 Audit
A thorough review of your documentation, processes, and overall readiness against the applicable standard.
Stage 1 Audit Report
A detailed report outlining findings, observations, and recommended actions will be shared with you.
Stage 2 Audit
An on-site or remote assessment evaluating the implementation, effectiveness, and conformity of your management system.
Final Report & Certification
Upon completion of the Stage 2 audit, a comprehensive report will be issued. Any identified nonconformities must be addressed before certification is formally granted.
Pricing
Cost of an ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 Assessment in Ghana
Three things set the price of the assessment:
Remote and On Site
Serving Organisations Across Ghana
UCS serves organisations in Ghana from its head office in Ajman, UAE, with assessments carried out on site or remotely.
FAQ
ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 for Ghanaian Organisations
Answers to practical questions about the standard.
What does ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 cover?
It sets requirements for a management system that helps an organisation optimise its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Its full title is ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 — Management systems for United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — Requirements.
Is ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 only for large companies?
No. ISO developed it for organisations of every size and sector, including businesses, governments, educational institutions and civil society organisations.
What happens after the assessment?
UCS issues a final report. Any nonconformities must be addressed before the compliance certificate is issued.
How do organisations in Ghana get a quote?
Send an inquiry describing your organisation and SDG scope; UCS replies with a full quote within 3–4 hours.
Often Certified Together
Related Certifications
Many businesses pair this standard with one of the certifications below.
Start Your ISO/UNDP 53001:2026 Assessment in Ghana
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