Shared vision for a better world

Taking place every year on 14 October, World Standards Day offers the opportunity to increase understanding of the importance of standardization.

It is a collaborative initiative of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

International standards are developed by leading minds from industry, NGOs, governments, and other stakeholders, who are put forward by IEC, ISO and ITU members.

These experts are grouped into committees that each deal with a different subject, from data storage to space exploration.

International standards bring technological, economic and societal benefits. They help to harmonize specifications of products and services, making industry more efficient and breaking down barriers to international trade. Conformity to international standards can help reassure consumers that products and services are safe, efficient and environmentally responsible.

ABOUT THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.

At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which are an urgent call for action by all countries in a global partnership.

The SDGs encompass the belief that ending poverty and deprivation relies on strategies that address a range of issues: improving health and education, reducing inequality and spurring economic growth.

At the same time, they recognize the urgency of tackling climate change and working to preserve our integrity and the diversity of our planet’s ecosystems.

SDG 3 focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all; this plays a crucial role in our shared vision.

International standards make things work.

They provide instructions, guidelines, rules or definitions that are then used to design, manufacture, install, test and certify, maintain and repair the products and services that we use every day.

From charging your phone to safer public transport, there are international standards for almost everything! Standards aren’t just about a sustainable future. They also help us get the most out of every day.

For more information on World Standards Day: http://www.WorldStandardsDay.org