What is ISO 14001 and what does its certification mean?

ISO 14001 is a collective name for international standards relating to environmental management in companies. The aim is to create or implement an environmental management system that helps organizations and their employees to develop a climate-friendly way of working together.

ISO 14001 certification

The ISO 14001 standard defines requirements and guidelines that form the basis for systematically managing and reducing a company's environmental impact. ISO certification not only builds trust, but also reduces waste costs, contributes to smarter procurement and improves relationships with customers and suppliers.

Certification requirements

ISO 14001 certification requires the implementation or maintenance of a management system that meets all the requirements:

• The system is integrated into daily operations
• The system allows clear documentation - often via a document management system
• The system is regularly updated and reviewed
• The system allows for clear process mapping
• The system effectively handles non-conformities, suggestions for improvement and environmental incidents - for example via a case management system
• The system should be auditable by an accredited certification body

Benefits of certification

ISO 14001 certification not only brings environmental benefits, it also helps to increase control, reduce costs and improve business performance. Through structured environmental management, your organization will have clearer accountability and stronger relationships with customers and stakeholders.

• Reduced costs
  More efficient use of energy, resources and waste management saves both money and the environment.
  
  
• Strengthened brand
  Certification demonstrates your environmental responsibility - strengthening relationships with customers, partners and employees.
  
  
• More business opportunities
  Increases your chances in public tenders and when faced with demands from customers or industry stakeholders.
  
  
• Clearer governance
  Environmental work becomes part of day-to-day management - with measurable targets, follow-up and accountability.
  
  
• Smarter procurement and supplier relations
  Systematic environmental work leads to better dialog with suppliers and clearer requirements in the purchasing process.
  
  
• Sustainable development as a business strategy
  A certified environmental management system provides support for building a long-term, circular and resource-efficient business.
  
  
• Increased credibility
  An independent certificate shows internally and externally that you are working in a structured way, not symbolically.
  
  Regardless of industry or size, certification is proof of your environmental work. It proves that you take environmental issues seriously through an effective and long-term approach.