ISO 14001

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ISO 14001 is an international standard that provides a framework for organizations to set up and maintain an effective environmental management system.

The standard applies to all organizations, regardless of size, type, or sector. It is also based on the principle of continual improvement. Organizations are expected to review and improve their environmental performance continuously.

ISO 14001 is a well-respected and understood standard in the industry, but it is a major undertaking to achieve certification.

The budget, time, and resources required are significant; hence, large, mature, well-funded organizations typically only take on ISO certifications.

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ISO 14001 is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle.

This means that organizations need to:

• Plan: Identify environmental aspects they can control or influence and set objectives and targets for improving their environmental performance.
• Do: Implement the necessary procedures and processes to meet their objectives and targets.
• Check: Monitor and measure their environmental performance, and identify any areas where improvement is needed.
• Act: Take corrective and preventive action to improve their environmental performance.

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