ISO: Green Certification

The International Organization for Standardization sets environmental management standards.

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an international non-governmental organization that sets standards in many areas of business. The ISO has set up the ISO 14000 family of standards to address the needs of environmental management. These standards cover a wide range of topics from basic management, labeling of items, performance evaluation and auditing. While the ISO does not perform certification themselves, many governmental and private agencies offer certification of ISO environmental standards, or "green certification."

History

ISO environmental standards grew out of United Nations discussions.

The International Standards Organization started developing environmental management standards in the early 1990s. The standards grew out of the sustainable development goals discussed at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.

In 1993, the ISO launched Technical Group 207, which is a body of standards organizations that continuously develop and review the ISO 14000 standards. Standards are continually updated to meet the changing scientific and technical knowledge of environmental management.

Benefits

ISO environmental certification carries several benefits to businesses. Due to the ISO high credibility the standards are respected internationally and carry weight wherever a company does business. In many cases ISO certification meets or exceeds local laws regarding environmental management. Attaining certification can prevent future environmental liability and potentially lower liability insurance costs for the business.

From a business perspective, certification sends a message of corporate social responsibility. This can attract new customers and employees who strongly favor limited environmental impact. Certification can also open up business opportunities with other progressive and socially responsible enterprises. Certification can project an image of innovation and creativity that appeals to investors.

Finding a Certifying Agency

Preparing for certification may require training and outside consultants.

Getting ISO certified means changing business management strategy to fit the standards. The ISO does not do certification nor does it allow its logo to be used for certification purposes. What the ISO does do is set the standards that certification bodies in other countries can use. Governmental or private entities can provide their own certification of ISO standards. These agencies may also provide training to bring the businesses management practices up to ISO standards.

Preparing for Certification

After finding an authorized agency to certify ISO environmental standards, there are several steps to attain certification. The first step is to define the ISO standard, such as ISO 1400:2004, that you wish to attain. That will provide the basis for changes of business management. From there the company develops an environmental policy to match ISO standards along with local regulations and laws. The policy should be reviewed against existing practices and environmental impact. Goals and a time line for attaining environmental standards should be set. After the goals are set, then they should be implemented throughout the business.

Certification and Renewal

Upon implementation, the certifying agency will review the management and award certification upon a successful completion. The length that certification is valid may vary, thought the British Standards Institution certifies for three years. Companies should keep aware of any changes in ISO standards so they can implement them before re-certification.

References

• International Organization for Standardization
• British Standards Institute: ISO 14001 Environment
• International Organization for Standardization: Choosing a Certification Body