What is EN ISO 14670:2012?

1. Introduction

EN ISO 14670:2012 is a crucial international standard in the field of environmental management. It provides guidelines and requirements for organizations to establish, implement, maintain, and improve their environmental performance. This article aims to explain the key aspects of EN ISO 14670:2012 in a simple and accessible manner, helping readers gain a better understanding of this important standard.

2. Scope and Purpose

EN ISO 14670:2012 outlines the fundamental principles and elements related to environmental management systems (EMS). It is applicable to organizations of all types and sizes, regardless of the industry they operate in. The purpose of this standard is to provide a framework that enables organizations to effectively manage their environmental responsibilities and reduce any negative impacts on the environment caused by their operations.

3. Key Requirements

EN ISO 14670:2012 sets out several key requirements that organizations must meet to achieve compliance. These include:

Developing a clear environmental policy: Organizations need to define their commitment to environmental protection and outline their goals and objectives regarding environmental performance.

Identifying significant environmental aspects: This involves identifying and assessing the potential environmental impacts of an organization's activities, products, and services.

Legal compliance: Organizations must ensure compliance with relevant environmental legislation, regulations, and other requirements.

Establishing objectives and targets: Defining measurable objectives and targets helps organizations monitor and improve their environmental performance over time.

Implementing an environmental management program: This includes implementing operational controls, training employees, and establishing communication channels to effectively manage environmental aspects.

Monitoring and measurement: Organizations need to develop processes to monitor, measure, and analyze their environmental performance, ensuring continuous improvement.

Auditing and review: Regular audits and management reviews help organizations assess the effectiveness of their environmental management system and identify areas for improvement.

4. Benefits of EN ISO 14670:2012 Compliance

Complying with EN ISO 14670:2012 brings several benefits to organizations. Firstly, it helps them minimize their environmental footprint and reduce waste, energy consumption, and pollution. This not only benefits the environment but also improves resource efficiency and can lead to cost savings. Additionally, adherence to this standard enhances an organization's reputation, as it demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and responsible environmental practices. It can also improve relationships with stakeholders, customers, and regulators who value environmentally conscious businesses.

In conclusion, EN ISO 14670:2012 is a vital standard that guides organizations in managing their environmental responsibilities effectively. By adhering to its requirements, organizations can minimize their impact on the environment, achieve sustainable development, and gain a competitive advantage in the market.