ISO 14001
Environmental Management Systems
ISO 14001 is the internationally recognised global standard for organisations wanting to demonstrate their environmental credentials. It details the requirements for implementing an effective Environmental Management System (EMS), which plays a vital role in how businesses measure, manage and control their environmental impact.
This ISO standard is the most widely recognised around the world, with over 520,000 ISO 14001 certificates in over 180 countries.
What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is the globally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It offers organisations a structured framework to systematically address environmental concerns, reduce their environmental impact and ensure compliance with regulations. Achieving ISO 14001 certification demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.
This certification equips businesses of all sizes and industries with the tools to manage their environmental impact, reduce waste, conserve resources and navigate environmental regulations effectively.
What are the ISO 14001 benefits?
Market Opportunities
Cost Efficiency
Employee Productivity
Reputation Enhancement
Operational Control
Legal Compliance
Supply Chain Optimisation
Insurance Savings
Stakeholder Confidence
Competitive Edge
Risk Mitigation
Adaptability
Key Requirements of ISO 14001
The ISO 14001 encompasses several requirements that organisations must meet to demonstrate their dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainability. These include:
Environmental Impact Management: Organisations must employ a systematic approach to identify, assess and manage environmental aspects and impacts related to their operations.
Legal Compliance: Companies should establish processes for monitoring and adhering to legal requirements, mitigating the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties.
Resource Efficiency: Prioritising resource management is essential. Businesses should optimise resource usage, reduce waste generation and materials to decrease their environmental footprint.
Continuous Improvement: Routine assessments and evaluations of the Environmental Management System (EMS) are vital. Both internal and external assessments should identify areas for enhancement, aiming to improve overall environmental performance.
Leadership Commitment: Senior leaders and top management have a pivotal role in promoting environmental responsibility. Their commitment is critical in fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the organisation, aligning it with environmental goals.
Stakeholder Engagement: Establishing and managing effective relationships with stakeholders, including suppliers and partners, is key. This ensures that environmental concerns are comprehensively addressed and that sustainable practices extend across the supply chain.
Implementing ISO 14001
Elevating your Environmental Management System (EMS) to meet ISO 14001 standards is a collective effort. Prior to Certification Assessments, consider a Gap Analysis by a Certification Body to assess EMS readiness.
Training Courses are essential to prepare your teams and ensure they understand ISO 14001 certification. Certification Europe offers ISO 14001 Implementation and Internal Auditing training tailored to your needs. Led by environmental management experts, these courses cover implementation strategies, auditing techniques and continuous improvement practices.
To find out more, click the course titles on the right or get in touch with our training team by filling out this form.
Becoming Certified to ISO 14001
Stage One
The initial assessment determines if the mandatory requirements of the standard are being met and if the management system is capable of proceeding to Stage 2.
Stage Two
The second assessment determines the effectiveness of the system, and seeks to confirm that the management system is implemented and operational.
Recommendation for Certification
At this point in the process we review any corrective actions taken to address findings raised at Stage 1 & 2. Certification may be recommended.
Certification Review & Decision
The organisations files are reviewed by an independent and impartial panel and the certification decision is made.
Certification Achived
Successful certification is communicated to the client. Certificates are issued.
Becoming Certified to ISO 14001
Stage
One
The initial assessment determines if the mandatory requirements of the standard are being met and if the management system is capable of proceeding to Stage 2. Recommendation for Certification
At this point in the process we review any corrective actions taken to address findings raised at Stage 1 & 2. Certification may be recommended.Certification
Achieved
Successful certification is communicated to the client. Certificates are issued. Stage
Two
The second assessment determines the effectiveness of the system, and seeks to confirm that the management system is implemented and operational. Certification Review & Decision
The organisations files are reviewed by an independent and impartial panel and the certification decision is made.ISO 14001 FAQs
Why work with Certification Europe?
We’re accredited by INAB and meet rigorous international certification standards, delivering ISO expertise to assess and certify ISO standards. Accreditation is the process by which a certification body is recognised to offer certification services.
To become accredited, Certification Europe is required to implement a Quality Management System which is assessed by an Independent Authorised Body to determine that it meets International Standards. We’re audited annually to ensure our services meet the exact requirements of the relevant accreditation standards.
ISO 14001 certification, by Certification Europe is accredited by INAB.
What is ISO 14001:2015?
ISO 14001:2015 is the latest edition of the international standard and is part of the wider ISO 14001 family.
The purpose of the standard is to assist companies in meeting statutory and regulatory requirements relating to their product while achieving excellence in their customer service and delivery.
You can find out more about ISO 14001 here.
What industries implement the standard?
ISO 14001 standard is suitable for all types and sizes of organisations – from start-ups and SMEs to charities and corporations. The internationally recognised standard is used by a large number of industry sectors such as retail, hospitality, manufacturing, construction and financial services.
Its full potential, becomes an invaluable asset to your organisation.
How does ISO 14001 relate to other standards?
ISO 14001 follows the high-level structure approach (Annex SL) applied to other ISO management system standards, such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 45001 (health & safety) and ISO 50001 (energy). In developing the standard, consideration has been given to the content of other international standards.
Those adopting the standard should find its requirements consistent with the other standards. This allows for relatively easy alignment and integration with the requirements of other ISO management system standards into an organisation’s overall management processes.
To find out more about integrated standards, click here.
How long does certification last?
ISO 14001:2015 certification will last for three years and is subject to mandatory assessments to ensure compliance. At the end of the three years, your organisation will need to complete a recertification assessment to become recertified to the standard.
Would you like a quote for ISO Certification Services?
Our team are here to help! Click the button below to complete our enquiry form for “Certification Services” and our team will be in touch with a quote and further information!
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