FOREWORD

Individuals, organisations and communities across the globe have become increasingly concerned with the quality and sustainability of our environment. There is also a growing demand for organisations to demonstrate environmentally responsible behaviour through eco-friendly products, processes and practices.

This book is for all those who wish to develop and implement an effective ISO 14001-based environment management system (EMS). International standards, such as ISO 14001, often carry a formality about them with each word bearing a specific meaning and context. They define requirements on ‘what’ ought to be done, without prescribing any specific details on ‘how’ they might be achieved. There is, therefore, a need to demystify ISO 14001 by presenting its requirements, as well as an implementation methodology, in a simple, user-friendly and easily understandable manner.

This practical guide is ideal for managers, auditors and trainers who are involved in any aspect of an ISO 14001-based management system – whether development, implementation, training or auditing. We will take a hands-on and step-by-step approach, explaining the purpose and the requirement of each clause, and how an organisation can meet those requirements. This guide also includes numerous examples, suggestions and documentation samples to facilitate understanding and implementation for those who are not familiar with this subject.