Expression of interest: pilot accreditation programme for ISO 20121 event sustainability management systems

Overview

Accredited certification plays a crucial role in helping organisations demonstrate compliance with internationally recognised standards. It provides confidence to customers, regulators, and stakeholders that certified organisations are meeting rigorous quality and compliance benchmarks.

UKAS is inviting expressions of interest from certification bodies wishing to participate in a new pilot accreditation programme for ISO 20121, the international standard for event sustainability management systems.

About ISO 20121

ISO 20121 provides a framework to help organisations manage the social, economic, and environmental impacts of their events. It supports responsible event planning and delivery, ensuring that activities are socially inclusive, environmentally sound, and leave a positive legacy.

By becoming accredited to certify against ISO 20121, certification bodies can help event organisers demonstrate sustainability leadership and strengthen their reputation in an evolving marketplace. This pilot offers an opportunity to advance responsible practice across the events sector, supporting innovation and continuous improvement.

What is a UKAS pilot accreditation project?

A pilot accreditation project is an essential step in extending UKAS’s accreditation offerings. As these standards have not previously been subject to accredited conformity assessment, UKAS undertakes a structured development process to evaluate their applicability and establish a proportionate and effective assessment methodology.

The pilot involves collaboration with interested certification bodies to refine the accreditation approach, ensuring it aligns with industry needs and best practices.

Express your interest

UKAS invites certification bodies to express their interest in participating in this pilot accreditation programme for ISO 20121.

If your organisation is interested, please provide the following information by 26 January 2026 to [email protected]:

• The estimated number of clients you currently have or anticipate for this standard
• The geographical locations where accredited certificates would be issued (e.g., UK only, Europe only, or global)
• The number of non-accredited certificates already issued and their respective locations
• Your estimated timeline for clients to be ready for:
  • Stage 1 audit
  • Stage 2 audit
• Details of how you currently scope certifications for this standard, along with example certificates

Your participation in this pilot provides a unique opportunity to help shape the future of accredited certification for event sustainability management.

By fostering robust and internationally recognised accreditation frameworks, UKAS ensures that organisations can confidently implement best practices, drive continuous improvement, and contribute to a more sustainable and responsible event industry.