ISO 14001:2015 Environmental management systems. Requirements with guidance for use
The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 14000 series provides international guidance for companies on aspects of environmental management.
ISO 14001 Environmental management systems. Requirements with guidance for use, was the world’s first international environmental standard and provides guidance on environmental management systems for all aspects within the control of an organisation, from energy consumption to waste disposal. A company adhering to ISO 14001 demonstrates that environmental impacts are being considered and reduced wherever possible.
ISO 14001 is a voluntary standard aimed at helping an organisation improve its environmental performance while complying with environmental legislation. It can be used by any organisation, including the private sector, charities and the voluntary sector.
The standard is based on the 'Plan-Do-Check-Act' approach, and a general requirement of the standard is that an environmental management system should be established and continually improved and documented.
It was first published as BS 7750 in 1992. The latest revision was published on 30 September 2015, replacing the previous 2014 edition. The 2015 edition is the first major revision since 1996. It introduces a new high-level structure of terms, definitions and headings that are common across all management systems standards, making it easier for organisations to use several standards.
Other changes include:
- Increased prominence of environmental management within the organisation's strategic planning processes.
- Greater focus on leadership.
- The addition of proactive initiatives to protect the environment from harm and degradation, such as sustainable resource use and climate change mitigation.
- Improved environmental performance.
- Lifecycle thinking.
- The addition of a communications strategy.
Organisations have been given a three-year transition period from the publication date to migrate their environmental management system to the new edition. After this, companies that opt for third party certification will have to seek certification to the new version of the standard.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BS8555.
- BS EN 15221.
- Ecological impact assessment.
- Eco-Management and Audit Scheme EMAS.
- Energy targets.
- Environmental consultant.
- Environmental impact assessment.
- Environmental legislation.
- Environmental management procedures manual.
- Environmental management system.
- Environmental plan.
- Environmental policy.
- ISO 14001:2004 Environmental management system -- Requirements with guidance for use Sustainability.
- ISO 41001:2018.
- ISO 9000.
- Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA).
- Sustainable materials.
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).