What It Is

ISO 37301:2021 Compliance management systems – Requirements with guidance for use is a certifiable international standard for establishing, implementing, and improving Compliance Management Systems (CMS). It provides auditable requirements using a risk-based approach and Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, applicable to all organization sizes and sectors, succeeding guidance-only ISO 19600.

Key Components

• Core pillars: context analysis, leadership, planning, support, operation, performance evaluation, improvement.
• Emphasizes leadership commitment, risk assessment, whistleblowing protections, competence, and continual improvement.
• Built on ISO High-Level Structure (HLS) for integration.
• Certification via accredited bodies like ANAB, with 2024 climate action amendment.

Why Organizations Use It

• Demonstrates systematic compliance to stakeholders, reduces risks/fines.
• Enhances reputation, supports ESG/SDGs, meets investor demands.
• Provides third-party assurance, integrates with other ISO standards.

Implementation Overview

• Phased: gap analysis, obligation register, controls, training, audits.
• Scalable for SMEs/enterprises; 3-year certification cycle.
• Focuses on culture, resources; tools like platforms aid operationalization.

What It Is

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards are the world's most used modular framework for sustainability reporting. They enable organizations to disclose significant impacts on economy, environment, and people using an impact-centric materiality approach, focusing on actual/potential effects rather than solely financial materiality.

Key Components

• Universal Standards (GRI 1: Foundation, GRI 2: General Disclosures, GRI 3: Material Topics): Baseline requirements, principles (accuracy, balance, verifiability), and materiality process.
• **Sector StandardsHigh-impact sector-specific topics (e.g., Oil & Gas, Mining).
• Topic Standards (e.g., GRI 403: Occupational Health & Safety): Specific disclosures/metrics. No formal certification; GRI Content Index ensures traceability.

Why Organizations Use It

• Regulatory alignment (e.g., EU CSRD interoperability).
• Risk management for HES/supply chains.
• Stakeholder trust, benchmarking, investor appeal.
• Strategic ESG integration, competitive advantage.

Implementation Overview

Phased: executive alignment, materiality assessment (GRI 3), data systems, reporting/index, assurance. Applies globally to all sizes/sectors; demands governance, cross-functional teams.