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Enhance Environmental Management with The ISO 14001 and Related Standards

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Compliancehelp Consulting, LLC

Summary


The post will shed light on what is the ISO 14001 environmental management system and related standards to help readers enhance their EMS. It will also discuss how organizations can prepare for the ISO 14001 certification.


The rate of issuance of the ISO 14001 environmental management system certification has increased by 12% between 2018 and 2021. Risk management, competitive positioning, compliance, and better resource management are the most common drivers behind this increase. With sustainability and eco-conscious products gaining momentum, this percentage will rise rapidly in the upcoming years.


So, as a business owner, you may also want to partake in this positive industry trend and enhance your environmental management system.


Today’s post aims to help you achieve that goal by highlighting the key steps in preparing for the ISO 14001 certification and some related standards you should consider.


So, jump into the following section now!

What Is ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Standard?


The ISO 14001 environmental management system standard is a globally recognized bar for setting up an EMS. The standard offers a systematic approach to identify and manage environmental impact, promote sustainability, and lessen carbon footprint.


Following the standard will allow you to integrate environmental systems into your daily business activities. As a result, you will be able to foster a culture of environmental awareness, optimize the use of resources, and enhance your reputation.


Related Standards to ISO 14001 Environmental Management System


If you want to take your environmental management system to the next level, integrate the ISO 14001 EMS processes with the following standards or systems.


ISO 9001 quality management system: The ISO 9001 is the primary standard for quality management. It offers a flexible structure to execute quality assurance measures in your organization.


ISO 50001 energy management system: How your organization utilizes energy will significantly affect your carbon footprint. You can integrate the ISO 50001 with the ISO 14001 to strengthen your energy management system.


ISO 45001 OHSMS: The occupational health and safety management system standard can help you improve the environment of your workspace and create a culture of safety and awareness.


How To Prepare for The ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Certification?


If you want to obtain the ISO 14001 certification, your first step should be thoroughly reading and comprehending the standard. Consider conducting an initial gap analysis to identify which clauses of the standard your organization already follows and the ones that need addressing. After that, you can follow these steps to prepare for the certification.


Environmental aspect and impact analysis: Identify the most critical aspects of your operations affecting the environment and analysis methods to highlight these aspects. Then, perform an impact assessment and create plans for mitigation and control measures to mitigate the impact.


Set objectives and goals: Establish measurable targets and integrate them with your business goals to set environmental objectives. Ensure the objectives are SMART.


Environmental policy and planning: Develop an effective environmental policy. Create a plan for implementing the policies, and engage your stakeholders.


Resource management and allocation: Determine what resources you need to carry out the EMS planning, including finances, human resources, and equipment. Allocate the resources, offer employee training and awareness programs, and ensure the competence of your personnel.


Operational control and emergency preparedness: Depending on your environmental impacts, create and implement operational controls, prepare for emergencies, and establish a contingency plan.


Monitoring, measurement, and performance evaluation: Establish key performance indicators, regularly monitor and measure your progress, and evaluate the effectiveness of your EMS through internal audits and management reviews.


Wrapping Up


Once you have operated your ISO 14001 environmental management system for a while, you can perform a final readiness review assessment and hire an ISO-accredited certification body for registration. If you have questions about this standard, consult with a certified ISO 14001 consultant for assured guidance.


Author Bio


Damon Anderson is a certified ISO 14001 consultant who helps organizations develop, implement, and analyze their EMS. Also, he uses his online platform to spread awareness about sustainability in the business space.

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