IFC Launches 2025 Update of EHS Guidelines – What It Means for Your ESG Strategy

IFC Launches 2025 Update of EHS Guidelines – What It Means for Your ESG Strategy

Published: August 2025 | ESG Consultancy Blog

The International Finance Corporation (IFC); part of the World Bank Group has officially kicked off its 2025 Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines Update Process, signaling a major shift in global ESG expectations.

Whether you’re a sustainability leader, corporate compliance officer, or an SME looking to align with international standards, this update is worth your attention.

What Are the EHS Guidelines?

The IFC’s EHS Guidelines are globally recognized technical reference documents that provide industry-specific and general guidance on:

 • Environmental performance (air, water, waste, biodiversity)
 • Occupational health and safety
 • Community health
 • Infrastructure safety and emergency response

They serve as the benchmark for IFC-financed projects and are widely adopted by private sector actors, investors, and governments looking to meet international best practice.

What’s Changing in 2025?

The 2025 process is a systematic review and modernization of over 60 industry-sector and general EHS guidelines, originally developed between 2004 and 2007. This is the most significant update in nearly two decades.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Alignment with new scientific knowledge and global standards (e.g., WHO, ILO, EU, ISO)
2. Integration of climate change, biodiversity, emerging technologies, and Just Transition principles
3. Stronger emphasis on measurable performance indicators and ESG reporting alignment
4. Updates to energy efficiency, emissions benchmarks, and circular economy practices
5. Enhanced guidance for developing countries and fragile contexts

How to Participate in the Public Consultation

The IFC has launched a multi-phase stakeholder consultation, inviting governments, private sector entities, civil society, and ESG professionals to provide feedback.

Consultation period: Until December 31, 2025

 Where to participate: IFC EHS  Consultation Page - Click here

 Who should comment: Companies relying on EHS guidelines, sustainability consultants, project developers, financiers, NGOs, regulators, and development agencies

Why This Matters for ESG Strategy

The updated EHS Guidelines will shape how investors, development banks, and international companies evaluate sustainability risk.

If your ESG reporting, supply chain management, or due diligence processes reference these guidelines, now is the time to:

Audit your current EHS alignment
Adjust KPIs to reflect upcoming updates
Train internal teams on the updated framework
Engage in the consultation to voice your operational realities

Our Take

This update is more than a compliance refresh; it’s a strategic opportunity. Companies that align early will improve:

 • ESG ratings
 • Access to finance
 • Market credibility
 • Resilience to regulation

At ESG Consultancy, we’re closely following the update process and supporting clients with gap analysis, capacity building, and stakeholder positioning.

📞 Need help preparing for the EHS transition?
Contact us for a tailored briefing or compliance review - contact us via the contact page<

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