ISO 14001 Certification: A Guide to Environmental Management Systems

ISO 14001 is an internationally-recognized certification program. It defines a global standard with specific requirements for a robust environmental management system or EMS. ISO 14001 delivers a framework that all organizations can follow. It only needs adherence and does not need many resources. In fact, it is part of the management system certification, and the ISO 14000 family of standards on environmental management defines a voluntary standard that all the organizations can certify to. 

Integrating ISO 140001 and other management standards can assist in accomplishing organizational goals. It is often paired with ISO 9001. The International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, defines the environmental management system in an organization as a vital part of the management system. It is essential to manage environmental aspects and meet the obligations for environmental awareness.

Understanding ISO 14001 – Obtain an overview.

ISO 14001 is a well-defined set of business standards. It is a comprehensive guide for developing a robust environmental management system. The standards are apt for any type of business. ISO 14001 offers the best assurance of the environmental impacts with a consistent improvement approach. The assurance is convenient to convey to the stakeholders, like the employees and investors, via an ISO audit and certification. The ISO 14001 standards were designed by 70 participating ISO members, with optimal expertise and insight for the development of the global standards. 

ISO is a national standard body with a global approach. ISO 14001 standards are for the environmental management requirements in the organization. While other management systems, like ISO 9001 are apt for quality management, ISO 45001 for occupational health safety, and many more. Simply put, it facilitates the integration steps of ISO 14001 with an existing ISO management system.

What does it cover?

ISO 14001 overview of the topics written below, related to an environmental management system or EMS –

1. Organizational context
2. Leadership
3. Planning
4. Support
5. Operation
6. Performance evaluation
7. Steady improvement

The revised versions – 14001:2004 versus 14001:2015

The 2015 version of ISO 14001 brought several changes and made it a better choice. The ISO 14001:2015 revision focuses on the process of incorporating a high-level structure. It is effective and uses the mandatory definitions of implementing common standards requirements and clauses.

The prime influential aspects of the 2015 revision of the ISO 14001 version include – 

1. An elaborative approach in EMS coverage and scope extensiveness
2. Enhanced interactions with external parties
3. Evolving Requirements for enhanced leadership engagement
4. Tight legal compliance and requirements
5. The risk-based planning and controls
6. Efficient documentation of the requirements
7. Holistic operational control requirements
8. Competence and awareness training 
9. Impactful internal audit program

Benefits of ISO 14001 for an organization

ISO 14001 is apt for organizations of various types and sizes. It includes private businesses, non-profit companies, government entities, etc. ISO 14001 facilitates the process of taking steps for all environmental issues in the organization. It is relevant for operations in the organization, including – 

1. Waste management
2. Water conservation
3. Environmental pollution 
4. Climate change mitigation
5. Resource utility and efficiency

The ISO 14001:2015 has more than one benefit for organizations as it helps with the following operational aspects – 

1. Improve the resource efficiency
2. Reduce the waste
3. Take down the overall cost
4. Assure a measured environmental impact
5. Gain an advantage in the supply chain 
6. Enhance the new business opportunities
7. Adhere to the legal obligations
8. Increase the reliance of stakeholders and customers
9. Enhance the overall environmental impact
10. Manage environmental obligations with sincerity and consistency

The need to implement ISO 14001 – EMS in the organization

1. Legal compliance

Getting the ISO 14001 certification makes the organization appear up to date with legal regulations. Avoid the fines and legal hassles with the best EMS practices and ISO 14001 framework.

2. Enhanced reputation with consumers

Undoubtedly, the trend is to go green! Hence, more consumers are ‘going green’! With the rapidly growing environmental concerns impact, one can witness a shift in their purchasing decisions. Getting ISO 14001 certification exhibits an active commitment to managing the environmental impact.

3. Competitive advantage

With the ISO 14001 certification, step ahead of the competitors! It is profitable if the organization is bidding for the tender. With more and more businesses acquiring the ISO 14001 certification, it is critical to ensure the best decision for the organization. 

4. Reduce waste

The global standard reduces the amount of waste produced by organizations. Reduce the unnecessary running of machinery and use the resources optimally with the framework guidelines of ISO 14001. By using renewable energy sources in the organization and implementing energy-saving processes, a company becomes energy efficient.

5. Reduce costs

Cost reduction is a critical aspect for all organizations. Naturally the rapid increment in efficiency results in reduced costs of business operations. The cost of waste management also reduces, with a direct and positive impact on the environment.

6. Reduced insurance costs

Did you know that considering the ISO 14001 certification can reduce insurance premiums? The globally accepted certification proves the performance of the organization and robust due diligence, managing the possibilities of environmental threats. Ensure zero negligence with reduced insurance costs. 

In a nutshell – Summing the highlights comprehensively.

ISO 14001, in the 2015 version, specifies the need for an environmental management system. It is indispensable for organizations and is critical to enhancing their environmental performance. ISO 14001:2015 is ideal for use by an organization looking for different ways to manage its environmental responsibilities systematically. In fact, it is a crucial part of the environmental pillar of sustainability. Meet the organizational goals and meet the objectives without neglecting the EMS norms. ISO 14001:2015 facilitates an organization to achieve the best outcomes. 

Find practical and efficient service with IRQS.

With IRQS, connect to a team of the best ISO experts and auditors. Get the best service with an efficient approach and obtain accurate reports. Know the correct pieces of information for ISO 14001 and make a wise decision to benefit your organization and the environment.