Iso 14001

ISO 14001:2015 Clause 3 Terms and
definition
by Pretesh Biswas, APB Consultant
Clause 3 Terms and definition

In this we shall try to define and understand some of the terms used in ISO 14001:2015
( Environmental management system) standard.
Audit – Competence – Compliance Obligation – Conformity – Continual Improvement –

Corrective Action – Documented Information – Effectiveness – Environment –
Environmental Aspect – Environmental Condition –Environmental Impact – Environmental
Management System – Environmental Objective – Environmental Performance –
Environmental Policy – Indicator – Interested Party – Life Cycle – Management System –
Measurement – Monitoring – Nonconformity – Objective – Organization – Outsource –
Performance – Prevention of Pollution – Process – Requirement – Risk – Risks and
Opportunities – Top Management
3.1 Terms related to organization and leadership
3.1.1 management system
ISO 14001:2015 definitions:
set of interrelated or interacting elements of an organization to establish policies and

objectives and processes to achieve those objectives
Note 1 to entry: A management system can address a single discipline or several
disciplines (e.g. quality, environment, occupational health and safety, energy, financial
management).
Note 2 to entry: The system elements include the organization’s structure, roles
and responsibilities, planning and operation, performance evaluation and improvement.
Note 3 to entry: The scope of a management system can include the whole of
the organization, specific and identified functions of the organization, specific and
identified sections of the organization, or one or more functions across a group of
organizations.
Annex SL definition:
set of interrelated or interacting elements of an organization to establish policies

and objectives and processes to achieve those objectives
Note 1 to entry: A management system can address a single discipline or several disciplines.
Note 2 to entry: The system elements include the organization’s structure, roles and
responsibilities, planning and operation.
Note 3 to entry: The scope of a management system may include the whole of the
organization, specific and identified functions of the organization, specific and identified
sections of the organization, or one or more functions across a group of organizations.
(This constitutes one of the common terms and core definitions for ISO management system
standards given in Annex SL. The original definition has been modified by modifying Notes
1 and 2 to entry)
ISO 9001:2004 definition:
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Explanation:
A management system is a set of interrelated or interacting elements that organizations use to

formulate policies and objectives and to establish the processes that are needed to ensure that
policies are followed and objectives are achieved. These elements include structures,
programs, procedures, practices, plans, rules, roles, responsibilities, relationships, contracts,
agreements, documents, records, methods, tools, techniques, technologies, and resources. A
management system is the framework of policies, processes and procedures used by an
organization to ensure that it can fulfill all the tasks required to achieve its objectives. These
objectives will be a mix covering many aspects of the organization’s operations (including
financial success, safe operation, product quality, client relationships, legislative and
regulatory conformance, worker management, etc.). For instance, an environmental
management system enables organizations to improve their environmental performance and
an occupational health and safety management system (OHSMS) enables an organization to
control its occupational health and safety risks, etc. Many parts of the management system
will be common to a range of objectives, but others may be specific to an individual
objective.
There are many types of management systems. Some of these include environmental

management systems, financial management systems, risk management systems, quality
management systems, business continuity management systems, food safety management
systems, information security management systems, occupational health and safety
management systems, compliance management systems, and emergency management
systems.
3.1.2 environmental management system

part of the management system used to manage environmental aspects, fulfil compliance

obligations, and address risks and opportunities
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environmental management system (EMS) part of an organization’s management system

used to develop and implement its environmental policy and manage its environmental
aspects
NOTE 1 A management system is a set of interrelated elements used to establish policy and
objectives and to achieve those objectives.
NOTE 2 A management system includes organizational structure, planning
activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes and resources.
Explanation:
An environmental management system (EMS) is one part of a larger management system and

is a set of interrelated or interacting elements that organizations use to implement their
environmental policy, to achieve their environmental objectives, to meet their environmental
compliance obligations, to manage their environmental aspects, and to address their
environmental risks and opportunities. These elements include structures, programs,
procedures, processes, practices, plans, rules, roles, regulations, responsibilities,
relationships, contracts, agreements, documents, records, methods, tools,
techniques, technologies, and resources.
Environmental management system (EMS) refers to the management of an organization’s

environmental programs in a comprehensive, systematic, planned and documented manner. It
includes the organizational structure, planning and resources for developing, implementing
and maintaining policy for environmental protection.The goals of EMS are to increase
compliance and reduce waste. An environmental management system serves as a tool, or
process, to improve environmental performance and information mainly “design, pollution
control and waste minimization, training, reporting to top management, and the setting of
goals”. It provides a systematic way of managing an organization’s environmental affairs
Is the aspect of the organization’s overall management structure that addresses immediate and
long-term impacts of its products, services and processes on the environment. EMS assists
with planning, controlling and monitoring policies in an organization. It also gives order and
consistency for organizations to address environmental concerns through the allocation of
resources, assignment of responsibility and ongoing evaluation of practices, procedures and
processes. EMS creates environmental buy-in from management and employees and assigns
accountability and responsibility. It sets framework for training to achieve objectives and
desired performance. It helps understand legislative requirements to better determine a
product or service’s impact, significance, priorities and objectives. It focuses on continual
improvement of the system and a way to implement policies and objectives to meet a desired
result. This also helps with reviewing and auditing the EMS to find future opportunities.
Establishing EMS in the organization encourages contractors and suppliers to establish their
own EMS.
3.1.3 environmental policy
intentions and direction of an organization related to environmental performance, as

formally expressed by its top management.
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(The original term has been modified from “policy” to “environmental policy”, and the
original definition has been modified by adding the phrase “related to environmental
performance”.)
overall intentions and direction of an organization related to its environmental performance

as formally expressed by top management
NOTE The environmental policy provides a framework for action and for the setting
of environmental objectives and environmental targets.
Explanation:
A policy is a commitment, direction, or intention and is formally stated by the top

management of an organization. An environmental policy should make a commitment to
protect the environment, to meet all relevant compliance obligations, and to enhance
environmental performance. Environmental policy refers to the commitment of an
organization to the laws, regulations, and other policy mechanisms concerning environmental
issues. These issues generally include air and water pollution, solid waste management,
ecosystem management, maintenance of biodiversity, the protection of natural resources,
wildlife and endangered species. Policies concerning energy or regulation of toxic substances
including pesticides and many types of industrial waste are part of the topic of environmental
policy. This policy can be deliberately taken to direct and oversee human activities and
thereby prevent harmful effects on the biophysical environment and natural resources, as well
as to make sure that changes in the environment do not have harmful effects on humans.
An environmental policy must be:
 appropriate to the organisation;

 include a commitment for continual improvement and prevention of pollution;
 include a commitment to comply to relevant legal and other requirements; and,
 provide the framework for setting and reviewing environmental objectives and
targets.
Also, consideration should be given to the reader’s expectations. From a customer

perspective they would like to clearly know: what the organisation does and how it does it
(e.g. do they follow best practice and embrace cleaner production, if so how?); understand
whether the organisation is greener or browner than similar organisations; understand
whether the organisation presents a direct environmental risk to their operations; understand
whether the organisation presents a risk to public perception if they are engaged; understand
whether the organisation present an environmental risk by not understanding and not
complying with legal & other requirements; and, understand whether the organisation has any
environmental programs to their reduce environmental impact and improve their
environmental performance.
3.1.4 organization
person or group of people that has its own functions with responsibilities, authorities
and relationships to achieve its objectives
Note 1 to entry: The concept of organization includes, but is not limited to sole-
trader, company, corporation, firm, enterprise, authority, partnership, charity or
institution, or part or combination thereof, whether incorporated or not, public or private.
person or group of people that has its own functions with responsibilities, authorities and
relationships to achieve its objectives
Note 1 to entry: The concept of organization includes, but is not limited to sole-trader,
company, corporation, firm, enterprise, authority, partnership, charity or institution, or part
or combination thereof, whether incorporated or not, public or private.
( This constitutes one of the common terms and core definitions for ISO management system
standards given in Annex SL)
company, corporation, firm, enterprise, authority or institution, or part or

combination thereof, whether incorporated or not, public or private, that has its own
functions and administration
NOTE For organizations with more than one operating unit, a single operating unit may
be defined as an organization.
Explanation:
An organization can be a single person or a group that achieves its objectives by using its
own functions, responsibilities, authorities, and relationships. It can be a company,
corporation, enterprise, firm, partnership, charity, or institution and can be either incorporated
or unincorporated and be either privately or publicly owned. It can also be an operating unit
that is part of a larger entity. An organization is an entity, such as an institution or an
association, that has a collective goal and is linked to an external environment.A social unit
of people that is structured and managed to meet a need or to pursue collective goals. All
organizations have a management structure that determines relationships between the
different activities and the members, and subdivides and assigns roles, responsibilities, and
authority to carry out different tasks. Organizations are open systems–they affect and are
affected by their environment.
There are a variety of legal types of organizations, including corporations, governments, non-
governmental organizations, political organizations, international organizations, armed
forces, charities, not-for-profit corporations, partnerships, cooperatives, and educational
institutions. A hybrid organization is a body that operates in both the public sector and the
private sector simultaneously, fulfilling public duties and developing commercial market
activities. A voluntary association is an organization consisting of volunteers. Such
organizations may be able to operate without legal formalities, depending on jurisdiction,
including informal clubs.
3.1.5 top management
person or group of people who directs and controls an organization at the highest level

Note 1 to entry: Top management has the power to delegate authority and
provide resources within the organization.
Note 2 to entry: If the scope of the management system covers only part of an
organization, then top management refers to those who direct and control that part of the
organization.
person or group of people who directs and controls an organization at the highest level
Note 1 to entry: Top management has the power to delegate authority and provide resources
within the organization.
Note 2 to entry: If the scope of the management system covers only part of an organization,
then top management refers to those who direct and control that part of the organization.
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Explanation:
When ISO 14001 uses the term top management it is referring to a person or a group of

people at the highest level within an organization. It refers to the people who
coordinate, direct, and control organizations. The term top management normally refers to the
people at the top of an organization. It refers to the people who provide resources and
delegate authority and who coordinate, direct, and control organizations. However, if the
scope of a management system covers only part of an organization, then the term top
management refers, instead, to the people who direct and control that part of the organization.
3.1.6 interested party
person or organization that can affect, be affected by, or perceive itself to be affected
by a decision or activity
Note 1 to entry: To “perceive itself to be affected” means the perception has
been made known to the organization.
EXAMPLE
Customers, communities, suppliers, regulators, non-governmental organizations, investors
and employees.
interested party (preferred term)

stakeholder (admitted term)
person or organization that can affect, be affected by, or perceive itself to be affected by a
decision or activity
(The original definition has been modified by omitting the admitted term “stakeholder” and
by adding Note 1 to entry and the Example.)
person or group concerned with or affected by the environmental performance of an

organization.
Explanation:
An “interested party” (also known as “stakeholder”) is any individual or organisation that can
affect, be affected by, or perceive itself to be affected by your organisation’s decisions or
activities. An interested party is a person or group that has a stake in the environmental
performance of an organization. In the context of this ISO 14001 standard, an interested
party is anyone who can affect, be affected by, or believe that they are affected by the
environmental performance of an organization. Interested parties may be directly affected by
the organization or actively concerned with its environmental performance. Interested parties
may include, for example, customers, communities, suppliers, regulators, NGOs, investors,
employees and trade unions.
3.2 Terms related to planning
3.2.1 environment
surroundings in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

natural resources, flora, fauna, humans and their interrelationships
Note 1 to entry: Surroundings can extend from within an organization to the local, regional
and global system.
Note 2 to entry: Surroundings can be described in terms of biodiversity, ecosystems, climate
or other characteristics.
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surroundings in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

natural resources, flora, fauna, humans, and their interrelation
NOTE Surroundings in this context extend from within an organization to the global system.
Explanation:
Environment is “Surroundings” in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

natural resources, flora, fauna, humans, and their interrelation. Surroundings in this context
extend from within an organization to the global system.”The term environment refers to an
organization’s natural and human surroundings. An organization’s environment extends from
within the organization itself to the global system, and includes air, water, land, flora, and
fauna (including people), and natural resources of all kinds. The definition of environment
includes environment and natural resources, but does not require the inclusion of safety and
industrial hygiene.
3.2.2 environmental aspect
element of an organization’s activities or products or services that interacts or can interact

with the environment
Note 1 to entry: An environmental aspect can cause (an) environmental impact(s).
A significant environmental aspect is one that has or can have one or more
significant environmental impact(s).
Note 2 to entry: Significant environmental aspects are determined by the
organization applying one or more criteria.
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element of an organization’s activities or products or services that can interact with the

environment
NOTE A significant environmental aspect has or can have a significant
environmental impact.
Explanation:
An environmental aspect is an element or characteristic of an activity, product, or service that

interacts or can interact with the environment. Environmental aspects can cause
environmental impacts. They can have either beneficial impacts or adverse impacts and can
have a direct and decisive impact on the environment or contribute only partially or
indirectly to a larger environmental change. A significant environmental aspect is
an environmental aspect that has or can have a significant environmental impact.
If an activity, product, or service interacts with the environment, it has an environmental

aspect.But what exactly is an environmental aspect? An environmental aspect is a feature or
characteristic of an activity, product, or service that affects or can affect the environment. In
order to identify your environmental aspects you need to study how your organization’s
activities, products, and services affect the environment. For each type of activity, product, or
service you need to list your unique environmental aspects. However, you don’t have to
worry about every environmental aspect. You only have to work on the most significant
environmental aspects–those that have or could have a significant environmental impact.
Furthermore, you do not have to work on all significant aspects, only those that you can
actually influence or control.
3.2.3 environmental condition
state or characteristic of the environment as determined at a certain point in time

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Explanation:
Environmental conditions are states or characteristics of the environment at a particular point
in time. ISO 14001 expects you to identify the environmental conditions that are capable of
affecting or being affected by your organization and to figure out what you need to do to
prevent or reduce the risk that these conditions could adversely affect its environmental
performance. Environment condition can be of types:
1. pollution
undesirable state of the natural environment being contaminated with harmful
substances as a consequence of human activities
2. erosion
condition in which the earth’s surface is worn away by the action of water and wind
3. deforestation
the state of being clear of trees
4. depopulation
the condition of having reduced numbers of inhabitants (or no inhabitants at all)
5. climate, clime
the weather in some location averaged over some long period of time
6. in hospitableness
the environmental condition in a region that lacks a favorable climate or terrain for
life or growth
7. meteorological conditions
the prevailing environmental conditions as they influence the prediction of weather
8. biodegradable pollution
pollution that is rendered harmless by natural processes and so causes no permanent
harm
9. nonbiodegradable pollution
pollution that accumulates in the environment and may appear in the food chain
10. air pollution
pollution of the atmosphere
11. noise pollution, sound pollution
annoying and potentially harmful environmental noise
12. thermal pollution
harm to lakes and rivers resulting from the release of excessive waste heat into them
13. water pollution
pollution of the water in rivers and lakes
3.2.4 environmental impact
change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from

an organization’s environmental aspects.
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any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting

from an organization’s environmental aspects.
Explanation:
An environmental impact is any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial,

wholly or partially resulting from an organization’s activities, products or service.
Environmental impacts are caused by environmental aspects. Your environmental aspects can
have a direct and decisive impact on the environment or contribute only partially or indirectly
to a larger environmental change. An environmental aspect can have either a direct and
decisive impact on the environment or contribute only partially or indirectly to a
larger environmental change. In addition, it can have either a beneficial environmental impact
or an adverse environmental impact. The combination of environmental aspects with the
environmental impacts is the first step in establishing the significance of the environmental
aspect.
3.2.5 objective
result to be achieved
Note 1 to entry: An objective can be strategic, tactical, or operational.
Note 2 to entry: Objectives can relate to different disciplines (such as financial, health and
safety, and environmental goals) and can apply at different levels (such as strategic,
organization-wide, project, product, service and process).
Note 3 to entry: An objective can be expressed in other ways, e.g. as an intended outcome, a
purpose, an operational criterion, as an environmental objective, or by the use of other
words with similar meaning (e.g. aim, goal, or target).
result to be achieved
Note 1 to entry: An objective can be strategic, tactical, or operational.
Note 2 to entry: Objectives can relate to different disciplines (such as financial, health and
safety, and environmental goals) and can apply at different levels (such as strategic,
organization-wide, project, product and process).
Note 3 to entry: An objective can be expressed in other ways, e.g. as an intended outcome, a
purpose, an operational criterion, as an XXX objective, or by the use of other words with
similar meaning (e.g. aim, goal, or target).
Note 4 to entry: In the context of XXX management systems, XXX objectives are set by the
organization, consistent with the XXX policy, to achieve specific results.
(The original definition has been modified by modifying Note 2 to entry and adding Note 3 to
entry.)
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Explanation:
An objective is a result you intend to achieve. Objectives can be strategic, tactical, or

operational and can apply to an organization as a whole or to system, process, project,
product, or service. It is a specific result that the organization or system aims to achieve
within a time frame and with available resources.In general, objectives are more specific and
easier to measure than goals. Objectives are basic tools that underlie all planning and
strategic activities. They serve as the basis for creating policy and evaluating
performance. Objectives may also be referred to as targets, aims, goals, or intended
outcomes.
3.2.6 environmental objective

objective set by the organization consistent with its environmental

policy
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overall environmental goal, consistent with the environmental policy, that an organization

sets itself to achieve
Explanation:
An environmental objective is an environmental result your organization intends to achieve.

Your organization’s environmental objectives should be based on or derived from its
environmental policy and must be consistent with this policy.
Environmental objectives are the overall aims that your business sets itself to improve
environmental performance through its environmental management system (EMS). They
indicate your business’ aims – eg to reduce waste going to landfill by 25 per cent over five
years.
Environmental targets provide short-term goals on the way to achieving these overall
objectives. One objective can have several targets – eg one target could be to reduce waste
going to landfill by 10 per cent in the first year.
Your objectives and targets should be based on:
 your environmental policy

 information gained from your initial review
 your register of legislation
They should aim to address any significant environmental aspects and should incorporate
specific legal requirements contained in regulations and consents.
When setting environmental objectives and targets, it is important you:
 identify the individual or department responsible for ensuring that they are met
 identify someone to oversee the implementation of changes and check that targets are
met
 ensure that the measures taken do not indirectly create another significant
environmental aspect
When setting objectives, you should keep in mind the SMART criteria. This means that all
targets should be:
 Specific – each target should address only one issue.

 Measurable – your targets should be expressed quantitatively and in absolute terms –
eg 10 per cent reduction per unit. Setting an overall energy reduction target of 10 per
cent is vague and requires qualification, as there will be variables, such as the level of
production.
 Achievable – targets should be possible to meet for everyone involved.
 Realistic – your targets should be challenging but not overly ambitious, as they can
always be revised once they have been met.
 Time-bound – your target must be assigned a deadline for attainment.
3.2.7 prevention of pollution
use of processes, practices, techniques, materials, products, services or energy to avoid,

reduce or control (separately or in combination) the creation, emission or discharge of any
type of pollutant or waste, in order to reduce adverse environmental impacts
Note 1 to entry: Prevention of pollution can include source reduction or elimination;
process, product or service changes; efficient use of resources; material and energy
substitution; reuse; recovery; recycling, reclamation; or treatment.
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use of processes, practices, techniques, materials, products, services or energy to avoid,

reduce or control (separately or in combination) the creation, emission or discharge of any
type of pollutant or waste, in order to reduce adverse environmental impacts
NOTE Prevention of pollution can include source reduction or elimination, process, product
or service changes, efficient use of resources, material and energy substitution, reuse,
recovery, recycling, reclamation and treatment.
Explanation:
Prevention of Pollution means use of processes, practices, materials or products that avoid,
reduce or control pollution, which may include recycling, treatment, process changes, control
mechanisms, efficient use of resources and material substitution. To prevent pollution means
to avoid, reduce, or control the creation, emission, or discharge of contaminants or waste
materials. Pollution must be prevented in order to reduce adverse environmental
impacts.Organizations use a wide variety of methods, techniques, practices, processes,
products, and services to prevent pollution. These include the reduction or elimination of
pollution at the source; the efficient use of resources, materials, and energy; the reuse,
recovery, reclamation,and recycling of resources; the redesign of processes, products, and
services; and the substitution of one type of energy source or substance for another cleaner
energy source or substance. The potential benefits of prevention of pollution include the
reduction of adverse environmental impacts, improved efficiency and reduced costs. The
organization must commit to review and utilize where appropriate the following prevention
of pollution techniques – recycling, treatment, process change, control mechanisms,efficient
use of resources and material substitution.
3.2.8 requirement
need or expectation that is stated, generally implied or obligatory

Note 1 to entry: “Generally implied” means that it is custom or common practice for
the organization and interested parties that the need or expectation under consideration is
implied.
Note 2 to entry: A specified requirement is one that is stated, for example in documented
information.
Note 3 to entry: Requirements other than legal requirements become obligatory when the
organization decides to comply with them.
need or expectation that is stated, generally implied or obligatory

Note 1 to entry: “Generally implied” means that it is custom or common practice for the
organization and interested parties that the need or expectation under consideration is
implied.
Note 2 to entry: A specified requirement is one that is stated, for example in documented
information.
(The original definition has been modified by adding Note 3 to entry.)
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Explanation:
A requirement is a need, expectation, or obligation. It can be stated or implied by an

organization, its customers, or other interested parties. A specified requirement is one that has
been stated (in a document for example), whereas an implied requirement is a need,
expectation, or obligation that is common practice or customary. There are many types
of requirements. Some of these include quality requirements, customer requirements,
management requirements, product requirements, and legal requirements.
3.2.9 compliance obligations (preferred term)

legal requirements and other requirements (admitted term)

legal requirements that an organization has to comply with and other requirements that an
organization has to or chooses to comply with
Note 1 to entry: Compliance obligations are related to the environmental
management system
Note 2 to entry: Compliance obligations can arise from mandatory requirements, such
as applicable laws and regulations, or voluntary commitments, such as organizational
and industry standards, contractual relationships, codes of practice and agreements with
community groups or non-governmental organizations.
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Explanation:
A compliance obligation is a requirement. There are two kinds of compliance obligations:

mandatory compliance obligations and voluntary compliance obligations. Mandatory
compliance obligations include laws and regulations while voluntary compliance
obligations include contractual commitments, community and industry standards, ethical
codes of conduct, and good governance guidelines. A voluntary obligation becomes
mandatory once you decide to comply with it. Compliance obligations must be considered in
the EMS Scope, Environmental policy, Environmental objective, Management review and
also while determining the significance of environmental aspects. There should be Staff
competence and awareness to ensure obligations are fulfilled. There should
be Communication of obligations, including with interested parties. Documentation should be
available to demonstrate fulfillment of obligations. There should be monitoring,
measurement, analysis and evaluation of compliance obligation
3.2.10 risk
effect of uncertainty
Note 1 to entry: An effect is a deviation from the expected — positive or negative.
Note 2 to entry: Uncertainty is the state, even partial, of deficiency of information related
to, understanding or knowledge of, an event, its consequence, or likelihood.
Note 3 to entry: Risk is often characterized by reference to potential
“events” and “consequences” or a combination of these.
Note 4 to entry: Risk is often expressed in terms of a combination of the consequences of an
event (including changes in circumstances) and the associated “likelihood” of occurrence.
effect of uncertainty
Note 1 to entry: An effect is a deviation from the expected — positive or negative.
Note 2 to entry: Uncertainty is the state, even partial, of deficiency of information related to,
understanding or knowledge of, an event, its consequence, or likelihood.
Note 3 to entry: Risk is often characterized by reference to potential “events” and
“consequences” or a combination of these.
Note 4 to entry: Risk is often expressed in terms of a combination of the consequences of an
event (including changes in circumstances) and the associated “likelihood” of occurrence.
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Explanation:
According to ISO 31000 2009, risk is the “effect of uncertainty on objectives” and an effect
is a positive or negative deviation from what is expected. From that description, it is easy to
envisage how any type of definable risk can have a negative effect on key performance
indicators, which are effectively an organization’s “vital signs,” as well as a negative effect
on the environment as a whole. Risk is often expressed as a combination of two factors:
probability and consequences. It asks two questions: what is the probability that a potential
event will occur in the future? And what consequences would this event produce or what
impact would it have if it occurred? Uncertainty (or lack of certainty) is a state or condition
that involves a deficiency of information and leads to inadequate or incomplete knowledge or
understanding. In the context of risk management,uncertainty exists whenever the knowledge
or understanding of an event, consequence, or likelihood is inadequate or incomplete. Risk
can come in many forms, for example financial uncertainty, project failure, security aspects,
competition, technology problems, the effect on the environment from operations carried out
by your business, whether waste produced, dangerous emission, or energy consumption.
Therefore, it is sensible that the ISO 14001 Standard seeks to add extra emphasis and
importance to this aspect, which potentially affects every business and its impact on the
environment.
3.2.11 risks and opportunities

potential adverse effects (threats) and potential beneficial effects (opportunities)

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Explanation:
According to ISO 14001 2015, risks are potential adverse effects (or threats) and
opportunities are potential beneficial effects. Risk and opportunity have three things in
common:
 They are concerned with events that may – or may not – happen in the future.
 The events are identifiable but their effect are uncertain, although less uncertain than
the probabilities.
 The outcome of the events can be influenced by our actions
A risk is something that can be a problem in the future. It is defined by two parameters
The consequences(C). What will happen if the risk becomes a problem?
The probability( p). What is the probability that the risk will become a problem?
The risk(R) is defined as R = C*p
An opportunity is something that can be beneficial in the future. It is defined by two
parameters
The value(V). What will happen if the opportunity becomes a reality?
The probability(p). What is the probability that the opportunity will be realized?
The opportunity(O) is defined as O = V*p
Risks may turn into problems. We can reduce or avoid future problems by reducing their
consequences or their probabilities. This can be done by
 Changing the way we work to

o Replace a high risk activity with a low risk activity.
o Remove the risk possibility
 Adding risk avoidance activities to the way we work
Opportunities may turn into benefits. We can increase future benefits by increasing their
probabilities. This can be done by
 Changing the way we work – replace a low opportunity activity with a high
opportunity activity.
 Adding opportunity enabling activities to the way we work
Both risk and opportunity is defined by value and probability. Experience and data are
important for two reasons. They can:
 Be used to estimate values and probabilities.

 Serve as an anchor for assessment – e.g. “How bad can it get?”
3.3 Terms related to support and operation
3.3.1 competence
ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve intended results

ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve intended results

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Explanation:
Competence means being able to apply knowledge and skill to achieve intended results.
Being competent means having the knowledge and skill that you need and knowing how to
apply it. It means that you’re qualified to do the job.
Unlike ISO 9001, which looks at the ability of the employees to maintain the processes in
order to produce good product, ISO 14001 is concerned with how the processes interact with
the environment. In essence, how does the organization ensure that employees (or other
outside workers) who are running processes with the potential for significant environmental
impacts are able to do so in such a way that those impacts do not happen? There is a basic
three-step process for this, called competence, training, and awareness. The first step is to
identify what skills and abilities are required for a person to perform the job function so as to
avoid the potential significant impacts. This competence can be gained in the form of outside
education, training, or experience. For instance, if you have a chemical process that must
maintain the concentration of a bath to a certain pH, or else there will be unwanted air
emissions, then this bath concentration must be maintained. If you require the operator to
measure the concentrations and adjust the pH level through addition of an acid or base, then
there is a level of chemical knowledge required to perform this action. It may not require the
operator to hold a degree in chemistry, but chemical knowledge must be there in order to
avoid the unwanted environmental impact of air emissions.
3.3.2 documented information

information required to be controlled and maintained by an organization and the medium on

which it is contained
Note 1 to entry: Documented information can be in any format and media, and from
any source.
Note 2 to entry: Documented information can refer to:
 the environmental management system including related processes

 information created in order for the organization to operate (can be referred to as
documentation);
 evidence of results achieved (can be referred to as records)
information required to be controlled and maintained by an organization and the medium on

which it is contained
Note 1 to entry: Documented information can be in any format and media, and from
any source.
Note 2 to entry: Documented information can refer to:
 the management system including related processes

 information created in order for the organization to operate (can be referred to as
documentation);
 evidence of results achieved (can be referred to as records)
(The original definition has been modified by modifying Note 2 to entry.)
none
Explanation:
The term “documented information” is meant to describe any meaningful data that is required
to be controlled and maintained by the organization, and the medium on which it is
contained. Documented information can refer to the Environmental Management System and
its processes, documentation, and records. So, in brief, it includes anything that you require to
be recorded to make sure your EMS functions properly and that you can demonstrate that this
is the case Documented information can be in any format and on any medium and can come
from any source. Documented information includes information about the
environmental management system and related processes. It also includes all the information
that organizations need to operate and all the information that they use to document the
results that they achieve ie records.
Your EMS needs to document the information that is required by the ISO 14001 standard,
and the information that your organization has determined is necessary for the effectiveness
of your EMS. This information is expected to be tailored to your company, because it is noted
that the extent of the documented information can differ due to the size of the organization,
the complexity of the organization, and the competence of the people. There are requirements
for the control of documented information, particularly how:
 it is available and suitable for use,

 it is adequately protected,
 it is distributed applicably, and
 access, retrieval, use, storage, and preservation are controlled.
There is also need for control of changes, retention of documented information, and
disposition when these documents are removed from use.
3.3.3 life cycle
consecutive and interlinked stages of a product (or service) system, from raw material
acquisition or generation from natural resources to final disposal
Note 1 to entry: The life cycle stages include acquisition of raw materials,
design, production, transportation/ delivery, use, end- of-life treatment and final disposal.
none
none
Explanation:
In the context of this standard, the term life cycle refers to the consecutive and interlinked
stages of a product system from the acquisition of raw materials to end-of-life disposal. The
life cycle a product system includes all associated activities, products, and services and may
include procured goods and services as well as end-of-life treatment, decommissioning, and
disposal. A life cycle perspective includes consideration of the environmental aspects of an
organization’s activities, products, and services that it can control or influence. Stages in a
life cycle include acquisition of raw materials, design, production, transportation/delivery,
use, end of life treatment, and final disposal.
When applying a life cycle perspective to its products and services, the organization should
consider the following:
 the stage in the life cycle of the product or service,

 the degree of control it has over the life cycle stages, e.g. a product designer may be
responsible for raw material selection, whereas a manufacturer may only be
responsible for reducing raw material use and minimizing process waste and the user
may only be responsible for use and disposal of the product,
 the degree of influence it has over the life cycle, e.g. the designer may only influence
the manufacturers production methods, whereas the manufacturer my also influence
the design and the way the product is used or its method of disposal,
 the life of the product,
 the organization’s influence on the supply chain,
 the length of the supply chain, and
 the technological complexity of the product.
The organization can consider those stages in the life cycle over which it has the greatest
control or influence as these may offer the greatest opportunity to reduce resource use and
minimize pollution or waste.
3.3.4 outsource (verb)
make an arrangement where an external organization performs part of an organization’s

function or process
Note 1 to entry: An external organization is outside the scope of the management system,
although the outsourced function or process is within the scope.
make an arrangement where an external organization performs part of an organization’s

function or process
Note 1 to entry: An external organization is outside the scope of the management system,
although the outsourced function or process is within the scope.
standards given in Annex SL.)
none
Explanation:
When an organization makes an arrangement with an outside organization to perform part of

a function or process, it is referred to as outsourcing. To outsource means to ask an external
organization to perform part of a function or process normally done in house. While the
outsourced organization is beyond the scope of your EMS, the outsourced process or function
itself may fall within the scope. An outsourced process is one that fulfils all of the following:
 it is within the scope of the environmental management system;

 it is integral to the organization’s functioning;
 it is needed for the environmental management system to achieve its intended
outcome;
 liability for conforming to requirements is retained by the organization;
 the organization and the external provider have a relationship where the process is
perceived by interested parties as being carried out by the organization.
When a process is outsourced,….. the organization’s ability to exert control or influence can
vary from direct control to limited or no influence. In some cases, an outsourced process
performed onsite might be under the direct control of an organization; in other cases, an
organization’s ability to influence an outsourced process ….. might be limited.
3.3.5 process
set of interrelated or interacting activities which transforms inputs into outputs

Note 1 to entry: A process can be documented or not.
set of interrelated or interacting activities which transforms inputs into outputs

none
Explanation:
A process is a set of activities that are interrelated or that interact with one another. They
transform inputs into outputs. Processes are interconnected because the output from one
process often becomes the input for another process.
Let’s understand some basics about processes.
 All work generally involves a process – things go in (inputs); get worked upon
(conversion); and come out differently (output). The value-adding conversion activity
within a process transforms inputs into outputs, e.g. takes raw materials (the input)
and manufactures (the value-adding conversion activity using various resources) a
product (the output).
 Process inputs and outputs can be tangible such as raw materials or finished product
or intangible like INFORMATION – e.g. computerized drawing or specification.
 All processes have a supplier and a customer. These suppliers and customers may be
internal processes or external to your organization. Each process must have an
accountable owner, i.e., having defined responsibility and authority to operate, control
and improve their process.
 All processes require the use of resources, e.g. – people, equipment, materials,
technology etc. These resources can be used as inputs (raw materials or information
such as a customer specification) as well as for the value-adding conversion activity
(e.g. use of machinery, equipment, computers, technology, people, etc.) to transform
raw material (input) into finished product (output).
 All processes must meet customer, organizational and applicable regulatory
requirements. The performance of all processes can be monitored and measured.
Gather performance data that can be analyzed to determine process effectiveness and
whether any corrective action or improvement is needed.
As an example, the below process contains a set of activities that are interrelated
(showing links from/to), interacting (showing inputs/ outputs), and the transformation of
process inputs into process outputs.
Schematic Representation of the elements of single process
3.4 Terms related to performance evaluation and improvement
3.4.1 audit
systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and

evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled
Note 1 to entry: An internal audit is conducted by the organization itself, or by an external
party on its behalf.
Note 2 to entry: An audit can be a combined audit (combining two or more disciplines).
Note 3 to entry: Independence can be demonstrated by the freedom from responsibility for
the activity being audited or freedom from bias and conflict of interest.
Note 4 to entry: “Audit evidence” consists of records, statements of fact or other information
which are relevant to the audit criteria and are verifiable; and “audit criteria” are the set of
policies, procedures or requirements used as a reference against which audit evidence is
compared, as defined in ISO 19011:2011, 3.3 and 3.2 respectively.
systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating
it objectively to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled
Note 1 to entry: An audit can be an internal audit (first party) or an external audit (second
party or third party), and it can be a combined audit (combining two or more disciplines).
Note 2 to entry: An internal audit is conducted by the organization itself, or by an external
party on its behalf.
Note 3 to entry: “Audit evidence” and “audit criteria” are defined in ISO 19011.
(The original definition has been modified by modifying the Notes to entry.)
internal audit
systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence
and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the
environmental management system audit criteria set by the organization are fulfilled
NOTE In many cases, particularly in smaller organizations, independence can
be demonstrated by the freedom from responsibility for the activity being audited.
Explanation:
An audit is an evidence gathering process. Evidence is used to evaluate how well audit

criteria are being met. Audits must be objective, impartial, and independent, and the audit
process must be both systematic and documented. Audits can be either internal or
external. Internal audits are referred to as first-party audits while external audits can be either
second or third party. They can also be combined audits (when two or more management
systems of different disciplines are audited together at the same time). Audit evidence
includes records, factual statements, and other verifiable information that is related to the
audit criteria being used. Audit criteria may be thought of as a reference point and include
policies, requirements, and other forms of documented information. They are compared
against audit evidence to determine how well they are being met. Audit evidence is used to
determine how well policies are being implemented and how well requirements are being
followed.
Internal audits, sometimes called first-party audits, are conducted by, or on behalf of, the
organization itself for management review and other internal purposes, and may form the
basis for an organization’s declaration of conformity. In many cases, particularly in smaller
organizations, independence can be demonstrated by the freedom from responsibility for the
activity being audited. External audits include those generally termed second- and third-party
audits. Second-party audits are conducted by parties having an interest in the organization,
such as customers, or by other persons on their behalf. Third-party audits are conducted by
external, independent auditing organizations,such as those providing certification/ registration
of conformity to ISO 9001 or ISO 14001. When two or more management systems are
audited together, this is termed a combined audit. When two or more auditing organizations
cooperate to audit a single auditee, this is termed a joint audit.An audit is a systematic,
independent, and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating it
objectively to determine the extent to which audit criteria are fulfilled. Audits are structured
and formal evaluations. The term systematic means the company must plan and document its
system for auditing. It must have management support and resources behind it. Audits must
be performed in an impartial manner, which requires auditors to have freedom from bias or
other influences that could affect their objectivity. For example, having responsibility for the
work, or a vested interest or shares in a supplier or third party company they are assigned to
audit, would be conflicts of interest. Internal audits must be carried out to a procedure
according to requirements given in clause 9.2 of ISO 14001:2015. The procedure must
address the responsibilities for conducting the audits, ensuring independence, recording
results, and reporting to management. Audits obtain objective evidence of conformity with
requirements. The evidence must be based on fact and may be obtained through observation,
measurement, test, or by other means. Evaluating the extent to which audit criteria are
fulfilled involves an assessment of both implementation and effectiveness. Is the organization
practicing what it described in its documentation? Are the practices being carried out well?
The presence of nonconformities in a department or process may indicate the system is
ineffective for those areas
3.4.2 conformity
fulfilment of a requirement
fulfilment of a requirement
none
Explanation:
To conform means to meet a requirement (or a compliance obligation). There are

quality requirements, customer requirements, product requirements, management
requirements, legal requirements, and so on. Since there are many kinds of requirements,
conformity can take many forms. You can conform (or comply) with mandatory requirements
like laws and regulations or with voluntary requirements such as contracts, agreements,
codes, and standards. In the context of environmental management, you can conform (or
comply) with (or to) the ISO 14001 requirements (or obligations and to any additional
environmental management requirements (or obligations) that your organization establishes
for itself.
3.4.3 nonconformity
non-fulfilment of a requirement
Note 1 to entry: Nonconformity relates to requirements in this International Standard and
additional environmental management system requirements that an organization establishes
for itself
Explanation:
Nonconformity refers to the “non-fulfilment of a requirement”. When an organization fails to

meet a requirement, a nonconformity exists. Since there are many kinds of requirements,
nonconformity can take many forms. You can fail to conform (or fail to comply) with
mandatory requirements like laws and regulations or with voluntary requirements such as
contracts, agreements, codes, and standards. Nonconformity refers to a failure to comply
with requirements.A nonconformity is a deviation from a specification, a standard, or an
expectation. A requirement is a need, expectation, or obligation. It can be stated or implied
by an organization, its customers, or other interested parties. There are many types
of requirements. Some of these include quality requirements, customer
requirements, management requirements, product requirements, and legal requirements.
Whenever your organization fails to meet one of these requirements, a nonconformity occurs.
When your organization deviates from these requirements, a nonconformity occurs.
Nonconformities are classified as either critical, major, or minor.
 Minor nonconformity – Any nonconformity which does not adversely affect the
performance, durability, interchangeability, reliability, maintainability, effective use
or operation, weight or appearance (where a factor), health or safety of a product.
Multiple minor nonconformities when considered collectively may raise the category
to a major or critical nonconformity.
 Major nonconformity – Any nonconformity other than critical, which may result in
failure or materially reduce the usability of the product for the intended purpose (i.e.
effective use or operation, weight or appearance (where a factor), health or safety) and
which can not be completely eliminated by rework or reduced to a minor
nonconformity by an approved repair.
 Critical nonconformity – Any nonconformity which may result in hazardous or unsafe
conditions for individuals using, maintaining or depending upon the product or
prevent performance of a vital products.
3.4.4 corrective action
action to eliminate the cause of a nonconformity and to prevent recurrence

Note 1 to entry: There can be more than one cause for a nonconformity.
action to eliminate the cause of a nonconformity and to prevent recurrence

action to eliminate the cause of a detected nonconformity
Explanation:
Corrective actions are steps that are taken to prevent recurrence by eliminating the cause or
causes of an existing nonconformity. The corrective action process tries to make sure that
existing nonconformities don’t happen again. Corrective actions address actual problems.
In general, the corrective action process can be thought of as a problem solving process. No
EMS is perfect. You will probably identify problems with your system (especially in the
early phases) through audits, measurement, or other activities. Corrective action is a reaction
to any of the cause/non-conformance mentioned above and can be divided in two phases of
action:
1. Identification of root cause: Total Quality Management tools such as fish-bone or

cause and effects analysis can be practiced. Corrective Action is appropriate and
effective if and only if the root cause of problem(s) has been identified.
2. Taking necessary actions: The effectiveness of the corrective action taken has to be
verified periodically through a systematic approach of PDCA (plan-do-check-act)
cycle.
3.4.5 continual improvement

recurring activity to enhance performance

Note 1 to entry: Enhancing performance relates to the use of the environmental management
system to enhance environmental performance consistent with the organization’s
environmental policy .
Note 2 to entry: The activity need not take place in all areas simultaneously, or without
interruption.
recurring activity to enhance performance

(The original definition has been modified by adding Notes 1 and 2 to entry)
recurring process of enhancing the environmental management system in order to achieve

improvements in overall environmental performance consistent with the organization’s
environmental policy
NOTE The process need not take place in all areas of activity simultaneously.
Explanation:
In the context of this EMS standard, continual improvement is a set of recurring activities that
organizations use to enhance their environmental performance. Environmental performance is
enhanced whenever the environmental aspects of activities, processes, products, services,
and systems are controlled and whenever adverse environmental impacts are reduced and
beneficial environmental impacts are produced. The term continual improvement is used to
identify the need to systematically improve different processes within the EMS in order to
provide improvements overall. It is unreasonable to expect that every process within the EMS
will be improving all the time, so continual improvement is used to plan, monitor, and realize
improvement in some processes that have been identified for improvement. While there are
many ways that continual improvement can be planned within an EMS, two of the main
processes identified in the requirements of ISO 14001 are the use of environmental objectives
and risk-based thinking. Through the proper use of these two processes you can see great
benefits from continual improvement in your EMS.
3.4.6 effectiveness
extent to which planned activities are realized and planned results achieved
extent to which planned activities are realized and planned results achieved
none
Explanation:
Effectiveness refers to the degree to which a planned effect is achieved. Planned activities

are effective if these activities are realized. Similarly, planned results are effective if these
results are actually achieved. An effective process is one that realizes planned activities and
achieves planned results. Similarly, an effective set of characteristics or specifications is one
that has the potential to realize planned activities and achieve planned results.Effectiveness is
about doing the right task, completing activities and achieving goals.
3.4.7 indicator
measurable representation of the condition or status of operations, management or

conditions
none
none
Explanation:
An indicator is a “measurable representation”. It is used to indicate or measure the status or

condition of an operation or an activity. In the context of this standard, indicators can be used
to quantify and evaluate environmental performance. They can be used to measure how much
success you’ve had and how much progress you’ve made relative to the environmental
objectives you wish to achieve and the environmental policy you wish to implement.
Indicators can also be used to monitor trends and to support decision making.Key
performance indicators are used in a Environment Management System to define the critical
feature or features of a process that will control the process so that it meets environment
performance requirement. By monitoring and controlling the key performance indicator, and
maintaining the level of the indicator as required, you can ensure that the environment
performance requirement is being met.For example, say you are in the chemical industry and
you have a process that performs a chemical reaction using a substance that has a severely
negative effect on the environment. Since this chemical is identified as having a significant
environmental effect, then the amount of this chemical used might be identified as a key
performance indicator to monitor and control as part of your EMS.
3.4.8 monitoring
determining the status of a system, a process or an activity

Note 1 to entry: To determine the status, there might be a need to check, supervise or
critically observe.
determining the status of a system, a process or an activity

Note 1 to entry: To determine the status, there might be a need to check, supervise or
critically observe.
none
Explanation:
To monitor means to determine the status of an activity, process, or system at different stages
or at different times. In order to determine status, you may need to supervise and to
continually observe and check the activity, process, or system that is being
monitored.Monitoring and measurement help you to evaluate environmental
performance, analyze root causes of problems, assess compliance with legal
requirements, identify areas requiring corrective action, and, improve performance and
increase efficiency. Your organization should develop means to monitor key characteristics
of operations and activities that can have significant environmental impacts and/or
compliance consequences and also track performance (including your progress in achieving
objectives and targets). You must also calibrate and maintain monitoring equipment.,
3.4.9 measurement
process to determine a value

process to determine a value

none
Explanation:
Measurement is the process by which the fundamental quantities and qualities of members of
a system, together with their relationships are derived and documented. The clearest example
of this process is measurement of physical properties such as counts – how many, mass,
weights, distance.The process of measurement consists of obtaining a quantitative
comparison between a predefined standard and a measurand.
Measurand = Physical parameter being measured: length, temperature, fluid flow, acoustics,
motion etc
Standard of comparison: must be of the same characters as the measurand, and is prescribed
and defined by a legal of recognized agency, e.g.:
NIST = The National Institute of Standards and Technology.
ISO = The International Organization for Standardization.
ANSI = The American National Standards Institute.
Measurement is fundamental basis for all research, design, and development and its role is :
 fault diagnosis and trouble shooting (process monitoring).

 Quality control.
 Fits and tolerances.
 CL (Feedback) system.
 Feed-forward control systems.
 New understanding of physical world.
 Test for any theory, design or development.
Fundamental Methods of Measurement:
 Direct Comparison with either a primary or secondary standard.

 Indirect Comparison through the use of a calibration.
The generalized Measuring System

Most measuring systems fall within the framework of a general arrangement consisting of
three phases (stages):
Stage 1 : Detection- transduction, or sensor- transducer, stage.
Stage 2 : Signal conditioning stage.
Stage 3 : Readout- recording stage.
3.4.10 performance
measurable result
Note 1 to entry: Performance can relate either to quantitative or qualitative findings.
Note 2 to entry: Performance can relate to the management of activities, processes, products
(including services), systems or organizations.
measurable result
Note 1 to entry: Performance can relate either to quantitative or qualitative findings.
Note 2 to entry: Performance can relate to the management of activities, processes, products
(including services), systems or organizations.(This constitutes one of the common terms and
core definitions for ISO management system standards given in Annex SL.)
none
Explanation:
According to ISO, the term performance refers to a measurable result. It refers to the
measurable results that activities, processes, products, services, systems and organizations are
able to achieve. So whenever processes, products, services, systems, or organizations perform
well it means that acceptable results are being achieved.
3.4.11 environmental performance

performance related to the management of environmental aspects

Note 1 to entry: For an environmental management system, results can be measured against
the organization’s environmental policy, environmental objectives or other criteria, using
indicators.
none
measurable results of an organization’s management of its environmental aspects

NOTE In the context of environmental management systems, results can be measured against
the organization’s environmental policy, environmental objectives, environmental targets
and other environmental performance requirements.
Explanation:
The term environmental performance refers to the environmental results that are achieved
whenever the environmental aspects of activities, processes, products, services, systems, and
organizations are managed and controlled. Environmental performance is improved whenever
the environmental aspects of activities, processes, products, services, systems, and
organizations are managed and controlled and whenever adverse environmental impacts are
reduced and beneficial environmental impacts are produced. Environmental performance is
all about how well an organization manages the environmental aspects of its activities,
products, and services and the impact they have on the environment. The organization’s
environmental performance can be improved by reducing its negative environmental impact
or increasing its positive environmental impact.In order to be able to determine how well
environmental aspects are being managed, environmental performance should be measurable.
You can measure your overall environmental performance by comparing your environmental
management achievements against your environmental policy, objectives, targets, or any
other suitable environmental performance requirements.
“Life Cycle Perspective” and ISO 14001

22/12/2016
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Lifecycle Perspective (LCP)

The use of the term “Life Cycle Perspective” (LCP) in ISO 14001:2015 is one of the bigger
changes in the most recent revision. ISO have included the requirement to consider
environmental impacts from a 'Lifecycle Perspective' because:
“A systematic approach to environmental management can provide top management with

information to build success over the long term and create options for contributing to
sustainable development by controlling or influencing the way the organization's products
and services are designed, manufactured, distributed, consumed and disposed by using a life
cycle perspective that can prevent environmental impacts from being unintentionally shifted
elsewhere within the life cycle.”
So, the purpose of taking a lifecycle perspective, at least in part, is to prevent the
unintentional transfer of environmental impacts to elsewhere in the supply chain.
Lifecycle Perspective vs Lifecycle Assessment

The definition of life cycle given in ISO 14001 is:
“Consecutive and interlinked stages of a product (or service) system, from raw material
acquisition or generation from natural resources to final disposal. Life cycle stages include
acquisition of raw materials, design, production, transportation/delivery, use, end-of-life
treatment and final disposal.”
If you have a background in environmental management you may be thinking "Oh no, not a
lifecycle assessment!", but don't worry, that is a whole other topic as ISO make clear in
A6.1.2:
“When determining environmental aspects, the organization considers a life cycle

perspective. This does not require a detailed life cycle assessment; thinking carefully about
the life cycle stages that can be controlled or influenced by the organization is sufficient.
Typical stages of a product life cycle include raw material acquisition, design, production,
transportation/delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and final disposal. The life cycle stages
that are applicable will vary depending on the activity, product or service.”
While a full lifecycle assessment (taking as an example the case of a manufactured product, a
lifecycle assessment involves making detailed measurements during the manufacture of the
product, from the mining of the raw materials used in its production and distribution, through
to its use, possible re-use or recycling, and its eventual disposal) isn't required - relief all
round! - ISO does expect you to adopt a lifecycle perspective because:
“Some of the organization’s significant environmental impacts can occur during the
transport, delivery, use, end-of-life treatment or final disposal of its product or service. By
providing information, an organization can potentially prevent or mitigate adverse
environmental impacts during these life cycle stages. The organization considers the extent
of control or influence that it can exert over activities, products and services considering a
life cycle perspective.”
And ISO 14004 provides some additional background;
"A life cycle perspective includes consideration of the environmental aspects of an


minimize pollution or waste.”
What ISO 14001 Requires

ISO 14001 requires that a life cycle perspective be taken, in two places in the standard:
"6.1.2 Environmental aspects

Within the defined scope of the environmental management system, the organization shall
determine the environmental aspects of its activities, products and services that it can control
and those that it can influence, and their associated environmental impacts, considering a
life cycle perspective. “
“8.1 Operational Planning and Control

Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall:
1. establish controls as appropriate to ensure that its environmental requirement(s) are

addressed in the design and development process for the product or service,
considering each stage of its life cycle;
2. determine its environmental requirement(s) for the procurement of products and
services as appropriate;
3. communicate its relevant environmental requirement(s) to external providers,
including contractors;
4. consider the need to provide information about potential significant environmental
impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and
final disposal of its products and services.”
Integrating 'Lifecycle Perspective' into your EMS

These actual requirements in ISO 14001:2015 are short, but can have a big influence in how
you identify environmental aspects and how you control those aspects.
To meet these requirements, you need to expand your view of the impacts derived from their
product and services beyond their own boundary. You need to look down their supply chain
to understand the environmental impacts caused by your suppliers and those supplying your
suppliers. In doing so, you may be able to identify environmental impacts of which you had
previously not been aware. Similarly, you will need to look up your supply chains to identify
environmental impacts that derive from the use of your products or services by your
customers or end users.
Armed with this new information you can then consider what, if any, control or influence you
have over these supply chain environmental impacts. Once these up chain and down chain
impacts have been identified, 14001 expects you, where practicable, to endeavor to address
the environmental aspects that are causing these impacts. How you choose to address these
life cycle aspects will depends on several factors including:
 the level of risk the aspect presents to the organisations

 the level of risk the aspect presents to the environment
 the degree of influence or control that you have over the environmental aspect
The amount of control or influence that you have over life cycle aspects depends on:
 how far the aspect is up or down the supply chain

 how a design change might affect the performance or cost of the product
 who controls the design of the product or service
You are also expected to use a life cycle perspective when you are reviewing the potential
environmental impacts and aspects from outsourced processes that are performed by other
organisations on your behalf.
This change in perspective can change what you do to reduce impacts, and in a good way!
Life cycle perspective - what ISO 14001 includes

Why include life cycle perspective?
According to ISO 14001 - A systematic approach to environmental management can provide

top management with information to build success over the long term and create options for
contributing to sustainable development by controlling or influencing the way the
organization's products and services are designed, manufactured, distributed, consumed and
disposed by using a life cycle perspective that can prevent environmental impacts from being
unintentionally shifted elsewhere within the life cycle.
What is a life cycle?
The definition of life cycle is ‘Consecutive and interlinked stages of a product (or service)
system, from raw material acquisition or generation from natural resources to final disposal.
Life cycle stages include acquisition of raw materials, design, production,
transportation/delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and final disposal.’
Is a life cycle assessment a requirement in ISO 14001?
No, it is not a requirement as clearly stated in Annex to ISO 14001 A6.1.2: ‘When
determining environmental aspects, the organization considers a life cycle perspective. This
does not require a detailed life cycle assessment; thinking carefully about the life cycle
stages that can be controlled or influenced by the organization is sufficient. Typical stages of
a product life cycle include raw material acquisition, design, production,
transportation/delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and final disposal. The life cycle stages
that are applicable will vary depending on the activity, product or service.‘
Why consider life cycle perspective?
The reason according to ISO 14001 is that ‘Some of the organization’s significant
environmental impacts can occur during the transport, delivery, use, end-of-life treatment or
final disposal of its product or service. By providing information, an organization can
potentially prevent or mitigate adverse environmental impacts during these life cycle stages.
The organization considers the extent of control or influence that it can exert over activities,
products and services considering a life cycle perspective.
Guidance from ISO 14004
Practical help – Life cycle perspective
A life cycle perspective includes consideration of the environmental aspects of an


minimize pollution or waste.
ISO 14001 key requirements that refers to life cycle perspective are:
"6.1.2 Environmental aspects
Within the defined scope of the environmental management system, the organization shall
determine the environmental aspects of its activities, products and services that it can control
and those that it can influence, and their associated environmental impacts, considering a life
cycle perspective. “
“8.1 Operational Planning and Control
…..
”Consistent with a life cycle perspective, the organization shall:
a. establish controls as appropriate to ensure that its environmental requirement(s) are

addressed in the design and development process for the product or service,
considering each stage of its life cycle;
b. determine its environmental requirement(s) for the procurement of products and
services as appropriate;
c. communicate its relevant environmental requirement(s) to external providers,
including contractors;
d. consider the need to provide information about potential significant environmental
impacts associated with the transportation or delivery, use, end-of-life treatment and
final disposal of its products and services.

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ISO 14001:2015 Clause 3 Terms and

Clause 3 Terms and definition

Audit – Competence – Compliance Obligation – Conformity – Continual Improvement –

3.1 Terms related to organization and leadership

set of interrelated or interacting elements of an organization to establish policies and

set of interrelated or interacting elements of an organization to establish policies

A management system is a set of interrelated or interacting elements that organizations use to

There are many types of management systems. Some of these include environmental

3.1.2 environmental management system

part of the management system used to manage environmental aspects, fulfil compliance

environmental management system (EMS) part of an organization’s management system

An environmental management system (EMS) is one part of a larger management system and

Environmental management system (EMS) refers to the management of an organization’s

ISO 14001:2015 definitions:

intentions and direction of an organization related to environmental performance, as

overall intentions and direction of an organization related to its environmental performance

A policy is a commitment, direction, or intention and is formally stated by the top

An environmental policy must be:

 appropriate to the organisation;

Also, consideration should be given to the reader’s expectations. From a customer

company, corporation, firm, enterprise, authority or institution, or part or

person or group of people who directs and controls an organization at the highest level

When ISO 14001 uses the term top management it is referring to a person or a group of

interested party (preferred term)

person or group concerned with or affected by the environmental performance of an

3.2 Terms related to planning

surroundings in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

surroundings in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

Environment is “Surroundings” in which an organization operates, including air, water, land,

element of an organization’s activities or products or services that interacts or can interact

element of an organization’s activities or products or services that can interact with the

An environmental aspect is an element or characteristic of an activity, product, or service that

If an activity, product, or service interacts with the environment, it has an environmental

state or characteristic of the environment as determined at a certain point in time

change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from

any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting

An environmental impact is any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial,

An objective is a result you intend to achieve. Objectives can be strategic, tactical, or

3.2.6 environmental objective

objective set by the organization consistent with its environmental

overall environmental goal, consistent with the environmental policy, that an organization

An environmental objective is an environmental result your organization intends to achieve.

Your objectives and targets should be based on:

 your environmental policy

When setting environmental objectives and targets, it is important you:

 Specific – each target should address only one issue.

use of processes, practices, techniques, materials, products, services or energy to avoid,

use of processes, practices, techniques, materials, products, services or energy to avoid,

need or expectation that is stated, generally implied or obligatory

need or expectation that is stated, generally implied or obligatory

A requirement is a need, expectation, or obligation. It can be stated or implied by an

3.2.9 compliance obligations (preferred term)

legal requirements and other requirements (admitted term)

A compliance obligation is a requirement. There are two kinds of compliance obligations:

3.2.11 risks and opportunities

potential adverse effects (threats) and potential beneficial effects (opportunities)

 Changing the way we work to

 Be used to estimate values and probabilities.

3.3 Terms related to support and operation

ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve intended results

ability to apply knowledge and skills to achieve intended results

3.3.2 documented information