The management systems are the centre core of an organisation and have a direct influence on a number of crucial considerations including, but not limited to, Quality, Environmental Concerns and Health and Safety. There is an inevitable overlap between these systems, and as such these systems can be said to be "integrated".

ISO 14001 is a set of elements (or requirements), against which to evaluate the environmental management system of an organisation. It is intended to be applicable to all types and sizes of business, and is therefore worded in such a way as to be relevant to any type of organisation.

The standard is NOT intended to be a proof of the environmental friendliness of an organisation, and no business or organisation may ever imply that it is.

ISO 14001 demonstrates that an organisation is proactive (rather than reactive) to its environmental responsibilities, with consideration of all parties affected by its operations including the local community.

What is the Environment??

ISO 14001 says that the environment is the "surroundings in which an organisation operates - including air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, human population, and their interrelationships"

ISO 14001 is not intended to be a theoretical, utopian ideal, but more a common sense and practical formula enabling any businesses to improve its relationship with the environment.

The standard aims to support environmental protection and prevention of pollution but retaining a balance that duly considers social-economic needs.