by Brianna Crandall — September 21, 2015—One of the world’s most popular standards for environmental management has just been revised, with key improvements that make it fit for the future, according to independent international standards developer ISO (International Organization for Standardization).
ISO 14001:2015, which sets out the requirements for an environmental management standard, is one of the world’s most widely used standards and a key business tool for many organizations, says ISO. With more than 300,000 certificates currently issued around the world, it ranks high on the agenda of many organizations worldwide who place importance on their environmental impact.
A newly revised version has just been published to ensure the standard remains relevant to the marketplace. ISO 14001:2015 responds to the latest trends, such as an increasing recognition by companies of the need to factor in both external and internal elements that influence their impact, including climate volatility.
Other key improvements in the new version include:
- A greater commitment from leadership
- An increased alignment with strategic direction
- Greater protection for the environment, with a focus on proactive initiatives
- More effective communication, driven through a communications strategy
- Life-cycle thinking, considering each stage of a product or service, from development to end-of-life
Anne-Marie Warris, chair of the standard’s technical committee ISO/TC 207/SC1, says ISO 14001 has fulfilled expectations over the last 20 years, including helping users to manage all their environmental issues in a holistic manner. She feels the updated standard will help with a stronger integration between environmental issues and an organization’s strategic action planning and thinking.
ISO Acting Secretary-General Kevin McKinley said the newly revised ISO 14001 reflects many changes in technology and what stakeholders expect of organizations. “ISO 14001 is something that organizations can use to distinguish themselves from their competition, and in many cases also providing financial advantage, helping organizations to realize efficiencies and improve performance,” commented McKinley.
ISO 14001:2015, Environmental management systems — Requirements with guidance for use, is available from national ISO members or the ISO Store.
