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What is ISO 14001?

The International Organization of Standardization, (ISO) is a worldwide organization that develops many different kinds of Standards. Read "Who is ISO" for more information...

ISO 14000 is a series of documents relating to the implementation of an Environmental
Management System (EMS).

ISO 14001:2004 is the document which defines the requirements for the EMS and provides guidance for its use. Buy copy of the ISO 14001 Standard

In the US, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) writes environmental laws that organizations must follow. Although ISO 14001 is strictly voluntary, it provides the framework to evaluate and manage an organizations' environmental impact and is the easiest way to comply.

View"Basics of ISO 14001" Tutorial. 

What is an Environmental Management System (EMS)?

An EMS gives an organization a systematic approach for managing their environmental impact (the consequences of their operations). The objective is for ISO 14001 to control environmental impact of the organization’s actions and continually increase the environmental performance as measured against objectives. See "What is an EMS" for more information.

Another ISO Standard, ISO 9001, is a Quality Management System that helps organizations
meet customer requirements. But ISO 14001 helps them meet environmental requirements and reduce waste. See "Comparing ISO 9001 & 14001" to learn more.

Why do companies want to pursue ISO 14001?

Fundamentally, it is everyone’s job to protect the environment by preventing pollution and continually improving the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the earth we inhabit.  Organizations are becoming increasingly concerned in achieving sound environmental performance, often while delivering cost savings and demonstrating that you are a “Good Corporate Citizen”.

Market Pressure
Many organizations decide to Implement ISO 14001 and obtain registration because it assures customers, shareholders, suppliers, regulators and the community at large that the company has a good Environmental Management System (EMS) in place. An organization with an effective EMS will typically meet customer expectations and comply with regulations better than an organization that does not have an effective EMS. Many organizations require their suppliers to have ISO 14001 Registration.

Review article "Benefits of ISO 14001" to learn more...
Download ISO's "ISO 14001 for Small Business" Article

ISO 14001 Benefits & Costs can help you evaluate the advantage to your organization.
Intro to ISO 14001 gives more information help ISO 14001.