The ISO 14001 EMS Specification provides a framework for achieving and demonstrating a desired level of environmental performance. The framework defines a management system for tracking environmental performance, setting pragmatic objectives, developing consistent procedures and programme initiatives, and reviewing progress in a way that is conducive to continual improvement.

Many organisations have implemented environmental procedures, hired employees and performed various types of audits in response to legislative, marketplace or societal pressures. These initiatives are most effective when they are integrated into an organisation’s management structure in a systematic, consciously planned fashion - rather than as a response to the latest environmental issue.

Drawing on the best international experience of leading corporations and standards writing organisations, ISO 14001 outlines the basic elements of an effective environmental management system (EMS). The EMS defined in ISO 14001 is focused on enhancing an organisation’s ability to achieve its environmental and economic goals. By incorporating environmental considerations into business decision-making, an organisation can obtain the benefits of seeing the strategic opportunities presented by environmental issues, as well as effectively managing environmental liabilities and risks.

An organisation may use ISO 14001 as:

• a framework for improving its own EMS, developing and assuring conformance with its environmental policy, and demonstrating this conformance to others.
• a criterion in the procurement of goods and services from its suppliers, or
• a basis for auditing a supplier’s EMS.

The organisation has the freedom to apply ISO 14001 to its entire operation, or only to specific sites or operating units. While the standard was developed with the intention that it be used by an organisation to improve its environmental performance, the standard does not define any particular acceptable level of performance, other than a commitment to comply with legislation and regulations. It is up to the organisation to define the level of environmental performance it wishes to attain.

Ideally, the ISO 14000 series is a set of tools to assist industry to work towards sustainable development. Pragmatically, ISO 14001 provides an opportunity for organisations who adopt the standard to receive certification that is internationally recognised.