The first ISO standard on ESG indicators for cities revealed in Toronto

At Toronto City Hall on November 1, 2024, the Standards Council of Canada joined the World Council on City Data (WCCD) and Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM) to unveil ISO 37125 – the first international standard on environmental, social and governance (ESG) data for cities. 

This standard offers consistent third-party verified ESG data, and enables cities to measure and track progress across 107 key ESG indicators. These metrics provide valuable insights into a city’s performance in areas like climate action, social inclusion and transparent governance. It will support cities and governments in attracting investment for essential infrastructure, affordable housing, green energy projects and more. 

“By providing cities and regional governments with standardized ESG metrics, we are empowering governments to attract and sustain investment, drive transparency, and ultimately, improve the quality of life for their citizens,” said Dr. Patricia McCarney, Director of SUM and President and CEO of WCCD. “ISO 37125 is more than just a standard – it is a catalyst for change. By aligning ESG metrics with global best practices, ISO 37125 enables local governments to develop a strong data-informed Annual ESG Profile Report to showcase their strong commitment to key ESG principles and increase confidence in sustainability reporting.”

Image Dr. Patricia McCarney, director of SUM and president and CEO of WCCD.    Photo credits: WCCD and SUM

Image Chantal Guay, CEO of the Standards Council of Canada.

Through SCC’s partnership with the World Council on City Data (WCCD) and Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM), Canada has given governments worldwide a tool to drive genuine sustainable development. 

“This Standard not only underscores Canada's leadership in sustainability and innovation but also sets a powerful precedent for global impact,” said Chantal Guay, CEO of the Standards Council of Canada. “The far-reaching effects of this work being led by SUM will provide cities and governments worldwide with the framework necessary to drive sustainable development and foster responsible investment.” 

The global significance of this standard was evident in the range of attendees at the event, which included mayors, city managers, chief financial officers, senior government officials, leaders in the capital markets and sustainable finance sector, leaders in international standards development and United Nations partners.

Image Olivia Chow, mayor of Toronto

Image Sanjaya Bhatia, head of office, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction