Mapping the Ecosystem of Standardisation

This report is prepared for the British Standards Institution (BSI) and examines the relationship between standards and regulation, focusing on how to effectively deliver policy outcomes. The authors address key research questions regarding the levers available for achieving these outcomes, the roles of standards bodies in governance, and the factors influencing the integration of standards into national regulatory frameworks. The report is structured into three sections: the first section provides definitions and a literature review, mapping the ecosystem of standardisation and detailing the interactions between various standards bodies and regulatory frameworks. It emphasizes the importance of high integrity standards and the alignment of best practices. The second section presents case studies that contextualize the ecosystem map, particularly in relation to climate policy and net zero objectives. The final section outlines conclusions and recommendations based on the findings, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of standards in governance.