Building a Future-Proof Sustainability Business Strategy with ISO 14001

Internationally-recognised standard for environmental management systems, ISO 14001

ISO 14001 is an internationally-recognised standard that describes the framework for establishing an effective environmental management system (EMS). From its publication in 1996 the standard has grown from an environmental risk management and compliance tool to development an Environmental strategy that takes into consideration the organization’s context, internal and external issues; the needs and expectations of interested parties at a local and global level.

The internationally-recognised standard sets out the requirements for an effective Environmental Management System (EMS). The framework is adaptable to all businesses sizes and sectors. The standard asks that a business develops processes to evaluate environmental impacts of its activities and the development of controls to mitigate the impacts;  identification of compliance obligations  and assess whether those obligations have been met; prepare for a potential environmental  incident and respond; and the develop an environmental strategy focused at continual improvement aimed attain environmental and business sustainability.

Sustainable development is a goal achieved by balancing the three pillars of sustainability; the environment, society and the economy.