ISO 14068-1: Trust and transparency in carbon neutrality

With increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, achieving carbon neutrality is a key aim for businesses worldwide. The ISO 14068-1 standard, released in 2023, offers a structured framework to guide organisations towards this crucial goal. This international standard outlines a systematic approach for businesses to become carbon neutral by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, enhancing GHG removals, and offsetting residual emissions through credible projects. 

Dr Gabriela Espinosa Gutiérrez, Sustainability Services Product Manager & Auditor and Dr Felix Rheude, Head of Department Infrastructure and Sustainability 1 have written a white paper called ‘ISO 14068-1 Trust and transparency: Verifying your carbon neutrality pathway’ which you can download now or read a brief summary below. 

Climate Change Management and Carbon Neutrality with ISO 14068-1

The ISO 14068-1 standard extends the principles of the ISO 14060 series, integrating concepts such as "ambitioned goals," "urgency of action," and "science-based approach" into carbon neutrality management plans. It provides a consistent methodology for achieving and demonstrating carbon neutrality for both organisations and products, emphasising a value chain approach for organisations and a life-cycle approach for products.
 

Key Features of ISO 14068-1

► Comprehensive framework: The standard outlines a step-by-step process for achieving carbon neutrality, including scope definition, establishing a carbon management framework, and creating a detailed management plan. 

► Emission reduction hierarchy: ISO 14068-1 prioritizes GHG emission reductions, followed by increasing GHG removals within the subject's boundaries, and only then allowing for offsetting through carbon credits. 

► Life cycle perspective: The standard mandates consideration of the entire value chain, ensuring a holistic approach to carbon neutrality. 

► Regular monitoring and reporting: Organisations must report at regular intervals on quantification and compensation measures, promoting transparency and accountability. 

► Third-party verification: Carbon neutrality claims must be independently verified in accordance with ISO 14064-3, enhancing credibility and avoiding greenwashing allegations.

How Does ISO 14068-1 Benefit Companies? 

✓ Enhanced brand reputation: By demonstrating a commitment to carbon neutrality, your company can differentiate themselves in the market and attract climate-conscious customers. 

✓ Regulatory compliance: The standard helps your business align with current and future regulations, such as the European Climate Law, the Empowering Consumers Directive and the EU Green Claims Directive. 

✓ Investor confidence: Strong environmental commitments, especially when verified by third parties, are increasingly favoured by investors. 

✓ Innovation and competitive advantage: The journey towards carbon neutrality drives innovation and the development of new products and services giving your business a competitive advantage. 
 

Challenges and Solutions for Achieving ISO 140681 & Carbon Neutrality

Achieving carbon neutrality presents challenges, including tackling supply chain emissions, securing necessary funds and infrastructure, and avoiding greenwashing. 

TÜV SÜD, a trusted partner in safety, security, and sustainability solutions, offers expert support to help you resolve these issues and support your aim of achieving carbon neutrality.
 

Supplier audits: Ensuring reliable supply chain data for accurate carbon accounting. 

Professional training: Empowering your team with the knowledge needed to implement carbon neutrality plans. 


Project management: Providing international experience in handling large-scale sustainability projects on time and in budget. 

Verification and certification: Authenticating the reliability of your carbon neutrality claims and efforts. 

ISO 14068-1 provides a robust framework for your business to achieve and demonstrate carbon neutrality, contributing to global sustainability goals while enhancing your market position and financial performance. By embracing this standard and partnering with experts like TÜV SÜD, your company can navigate the path to carbon neutrality with confidence, transparency, and credibility. 
 

Want to learn more about ISO 14068-1 and how TÜV SÜD can support your organisation's journey towards carbon neutrality?

Download our comprehensive white paper today and take the next step towards a more sustainable future for your business or contact our experts to find out how we can support you. 
 

TÜV SÜD ISO 14068-1 Experts

Dr Gabriela Espinosa Gutiérrez
Sustainability Services Product Manager & Auditor

Gabriela has worked in the field of environmental engineering and sustainability for two decades. Currently she is active in verification and validation projects for carbon footprints and life cycle assessments, and in carbon neutrality audits according to ISO 14068-1. Gabriela also has experience in developing sustainable supply chain standards and managing international collaborations focused on the circular economy and sustainable water management projects, coordinating efforts across public and private sectors. Her past consultancy work includes environmental risk assessments, due diligence audits for different industrial sectors, and supervising environmental aspects of large construction projects.

Dr Felix Rheude
Head of Department Infrastructure and Sustainability 1

Felix has worked in the field of sustainability assessment and reporting for six years and holds a PhD in Bioeconomy and Circular Economy. During this time, he specialised in the field of carbon footprints, and their verification and validation and associated standards and guidelines. He has practical experience in the construction industry, metal industry, and manufacturing industry. Felix also worked for several years as a successful project manager with international experience in various projects.