Since 1947, the International Organization for Standardization has put forward over 23,000 standards for businesses to follow, intended to streamline global operational efficiency. Out of these, ISO 14001 is a standard that sets out the framework for organisations to implement an effective environmental management system (EMS).
Achieving the ISO 14001 Certification helps companies improve their environmental performance and access sustainable development.
Yet, only about a fraction of companies in Australia hold the ISO 14001 Certification. The lower certification rate can be attributed to the depth surrounding the standard, making companies unsure how to begin.
In this article, we hope to solve this issue. We’ll break down everything you need about the ISO 14001 Certification in Australia – from what it entails and how it benefits you, to how you can get certified.
What Is ISO 14001 Certification All About?
ISO 14001 sets guidelines for organisations to establish an effective EMS focused on minimising carbon footprint, controlling waste, and managing environmental impact. The EMS system helps you monitor the sustainability activities of your firm, allowing you to optimise your environmental performance.
The standard is based on a Plan-Do-Check-Act model that serves as a well-structured guide for effectively establishing your EMS and meeting environmental requirements.
Why You Need An ISO 14001 Certification
Over 70% of ISO 14001 Certified businesses have reported financial gains and reduced operational costs. The certification not only leads to a more sustainable environment but also brings you a host of business benefits.
1. Enhanced Environmental Performance
An ISO 14001-guided EMS helps you identify and reduce environmental impacts. You’ll preserve natural capital through targeted initiatives like recycling programs or emission controls.
2. Enhanced Company Image
Today’s consumers care about sustainability. The ISO 14001 Certification on your communications indicates eco-conscious practices. This can boost brand reputation and trust.
3. Increased Efficiency & Cost Savings
An EMS reveals inefficiencies in resource utilisation. Fixing issues like excessive energy usage helps cut expenses.
4. Legal & Regulatory Compliance
ISO 14001 aligns your EMS with environmental legislation like waste disposal rules and other local compliance requirements. Having the certification reduces regulatory penalties or legal liabilities.
So, How Can You Achieve the ISO 14001 Certification?
Attaining the certification takes you through a structured process. Here is an overview of the key steps involved:
Step 1: Initial Environmental Audit
Examine your business operations to identify environmental impacts, legal requirements, and stakeholders’ needs. This audit sets the foundations and helps form an actionable strategy.
Step 2: Building an EMS
As per the insights from the initial audit, you’ll need a detailed blueprint of organisational processes and roles, and an outline of the targets to achieve for sustainability. Next, your firm will need to set up corrective protocols and monitoring mechanisms for achieving and maintaining those targets.
Step 3: Implement the Environmental Management System
With proper managerial commitment and employee commitment, you now need to activate the EMS across all business areas. This step requires consistent support and cooperation throughout your organisation.
Step 4: Audits & Management Review
Now, to check the effectiveness of the EMS. You’ll need to conduct a rigorous system audit to ensure the EMS meets all requirements and guidelines. Management reviews help assess the achievement of objectives and outline improvements.
Step 5: External Certification Audit
Finally, an accredited auditor needs to verify that your EMS satisfies ISO 14001 parameters. Once certified, your Australian organisation joins over 390,000 ISO 14001-certified businesses globally.
What’s Next?
After obtaining the certificate, you’ll also need to maintain your ISO certification status with regular audits, assessments, and external consultations. All in all, while the ISO 14001 Certification in Australia does demand resources, the long-term dividends make it worthwhile. Beyond environmental and societal gains, you also achieve additional cost savings and untapped market opportunities.
Also Read: Different ISO Certifications and What Do They Signify?
