，
Basic Requirements for Applying ISO 14000 Certification
ISO 14000 Certification is a series of environmental management standards that apply to organizations of any size and nature. As environmental awareness gradually increases and governments around the world tighten regulations, it is becoming increasingly important for organizations to obtain ISO 14001 certification. The ISO 14000 series provides a clear framework for how to establish and implement an environmental management system, allowing companies to make a positive pitch for their business and take advantage of going green.
To get certified, companies must have an established environmental policy and an effective environmental management system (EMS). An EMS is an organized approach to managing an organizations environmental impacts. It also helps an organization identify potential problems and strategies for preventing them. A company can implement an EMS by following the processes set forth in ISO 14001.
Basic requirements for applying to ISO 14000 are outlined in the International Organization for Standardizations documents 9001 and 14001. First, a company must have an established (written) environmental policy. This policy should explain the objectives, commitments and structure of the organization’s environmental management system. The policy should also include strategies for prevention of environmental harm and continual improvement of environmental performance. It should provide detail on monitoring environmental performance, setting environmental objectives and targets, and providing resources necessary to meet the objectives.
The second requirement is to determine the environmental impacts of operations and create environmental objectives, plans and targets. This would include an internal audit of the environmental aspects of the business’s operations and their associated environmental risks. Additionally, an environmental risk assessment team should be formed to identify, evaluate and manage environmental risks and opportunities.
The third requirement is to create policies, plans and procedures for the organization. These documents should clearly articulate the organization’s commitment to meeting its environmental objectives and establish controls for preventing or reducing any negative environmental impacts.
The fourth requirement is to ensure continual improvement of the EMS. This includes developing a process for monitoring and measuring the organization’s environmental performance. This performance should be evaluated and adjustments made as needed. The organization should also develop a process for regularly reviewing the EMS to ensure that it is meeting objectives and requirements.
Finally, the organization should create an internal audit system in which the process and procedures are reviewed. The audit should be unbiased and focused on environmental performance rather than cost effectiveness or other factors. It should include both internal and external auditors, as well as stakeholders and personnel from outside the organization.
In conclusion, ISO 14000 Certification is a useful tool for companies of any size to reduce their environmental footprint and improve their environmental performance. To be successful at achieving certification, organizations should implement processes that meet the requirements outlined in the ISO 9000 and 14000 documents. Although the application process is often daunting, meeting the requirements can benefit companies by increasing their environmental performance, gaining greater public confidence and reducing risks associated with environmental impacts.
