Environmental management system

Every year, more and more organizations want to effectively improve the quality of their services, as well as show their stakeholders that they attach great importance to environmental protection as part of their operations. As a result, more and more companies are choosing to implement and certify an environmental management system according to the ISO 14001 standard.

ISO 14001 contains key requirements for an environmental management system, making it possible to take specific actions to support environmental protection and pollution prevention in a way that takes into account socio-economic needs.

The primary objective of the environmental management system is to create such conditions for the operation of the enterprise that will minimize the impact of negative factors on the environment.

Who is ISO 14001 intended for?

The ISO 14001 standard is very versatile. It can be successfully implemented in all companies, regardless of their size and the industry in which they operate. Due to its nature, it is recommended for both small organizations and large multinational corporations.

The environmental management standard requires a commitment to specific tasks. Therefore, it is primarily intended for those organizations that intend to establish, implement and improve an environmental management system as part of their operations. Organizations that have decided to implement the requirements contained in ISO 14001 must function in accordance with the established policy and environmental objectives.

Benefits of implementing an environmental management system

Improving the organization’s image

Implementation of the requirements of ISO 14001 is undoubtedly a marketing asset for an organization. The organization’s public declaration of care for the environment benefits its image in the eyes of both customers and business partners.

Improving trust in the organization

Implementation of an environmental management system builds competitive advantages in the local and international markets. ISO 14001 certification increases the confidence of contractors and government representatives.

Arranging the formal and legal status of the organization

By implementing the requirements of the environmental management standard, it is also possible to effectively achieve the organization’s strategic goals while maintaining environmental compliance. The standard also makes it possible to put the company’s formal and legal status in order. This, in turn, makes it easier to obtain various types of permits and approvals.

Improving relations with controlling entities and having access to business support programs

With ISO 14001, companies can also improve cooperation and relations with both the public and control bodies (trade inspections, environmental inspections, representatives of public authorities). Access to various types of programs to support entrepreneurs (investment subsidies, EU grants, funding for research and environmental projects) is also greatly facilitated.

As a general rule, having a company’s environmental management system certified to ISO 14001 requirements increases its chances of being successful in tenders.

Improving the economic situation of the organization

There are also a number of economic benefits associated with implementing environmental standards in a company. Among other things, having an environmental management system contributes to reducing the cost of waste and pollution disposal, reducing the consumption of raw materials, hazardous substances and chemicals. In addition, it reduces the company’s operating costs, such as electricity and water.

Reducing the risk of paying financial penalties

By implementing an environmental management system, environmental nonconformities can also be effectively prevented. The consequences of these non-compliances could have a negative impact on an organization’s actual financial performance. In other words, this means that the ISO 14001 standard allows companies to avoid possible financial consequences that would result from failure to meet such requirements.

Want to find out how to implement an environmental management system in a company? You’ll learn the ISO 14001 implementation procedure and practical tips for identifying environmental aspects in an ISO 14001 certified course.