Title: ISO 14001: time for improvements?

Authors: Tine Herreborg Jorgensen

Addresses: Department of Development and Planning, Aalborg University, Fibigerstraede 13, Aalborg ost, DK-9220, Denmark

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to discuss a number of issues related to ISO 14001:2004, the international standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS) with the purpose of improving the next edition in order to recognise and reflect new recognitions in approaches to pollution prevention. A case study is presented and shows lack of life cycle thinking in product development. This paper suggests changes of ISO 14001:2004 in order to include a more product-oriented approach and a stronger focus on stakeholders. It also suggests to formulate clearer demands for targets and environmental improvements and to include a demand for publication of an environmental report to promote a constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders.

Keywords: ISO 14001; environmental management systems; EMS; product-oriented environmental management; POEM; product life cycle; stakeholders; environmental standards; pollution prevention; product development; targets.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESD.2007.015305

International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development, 2007 Vol.6 No.3, pp.254 - 272

Published online: 03 Oct 2007 *

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