Environmental Management &
Sustainability

ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management &
Sustainability

ISO 14001 is the internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It provides a comprehensive framework for organisations to design, implement and continuously improve their environmental performance. By adhering to this standard, organisations can ensure they are taking proactive measures to minimise their environmental footprint, comply with relevant legal requirements and achieve their environmental objectives. The framework encompasses various aspects, from resource usage and waste management to monitoring environmental performance and involving stakeholders in environmental commitments.

Environmental Management Systems (EMS) have been a cornerstone of Feddersen Consulting Group’s services for many years. Our environmental management consulting services, credentials and ethical approach have seen us engaged by many clients and our expertise in environmental management is valued worldwide.

Key areas of compliance include legal compliance, social responsibility, safety of workers and all stakeholders and responsible environmental behaviour. Our agricultural experience and engineering capability equip us particularly well to provide reliable and cost-effective advice and guidance.

ISO 14001 is crucial in this era of heightened environmental consciousness and global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and resource depletion. Organisations have a pivotal role to play, and ISO 14001 offers a structured approach to address these pressing concerns. By adopting this standard, organisations signal a commitment not only to regulatory compliance but also to ongoing environmental improvement. This proactive approach to environmental management can result in tangible benefits, such as reduced waste, energy conservation and cost savings. It enhances an organisation’s reputation, fosters stakeholder trust and is often critical for engaging in global trade and supply chains. Simply put, ISO 14001 stands as a testament to an organisation’s dedication to a sustainable future, blending environmental responsibility with strategic business growth.

Sustainability – Responsible and Safe

Sustainability involves operating in an environmentally responsible, safe, socially caring and economically responsible manner while achieving desired outcomes. FCG assists clients in achieving ISO 14001 certification by developing management systems that meet specified sustainability requirements, yet are practical, workable and readily adopted by management to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Industries worldwide have benefitted from FCG’s advice and support. Not only have we advised clients throughout Australia but we have also supported clients in locations as diverse as Papua New Guinea and the Democratic Republic of Congo on meeting requirements for certification to their selected standard or requirement, including the Sustainable Palm Oil RSPO Principles and Criteria, EU agricultural import requirements, Global GAP, SAN, and others. Two of our consultants are approved Better Cotton Initiative Consultants.

Sustainability has been a key role of FGC for more than fifteen years. A member of the Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), an organisation with members from the industry, environmental NGOs, governments, processors and consumers, we provide a consulting service to growers and processors to assist them in meeting the requirements to be certified as sustainable with associated environmental benefits.

This involves working with employees, their families, external communities, non-governmental organisations, and company management to identify areas where sustainable performance can be improved and recommend solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Environmental Management System?

An environmental management system is a structured system designed to help organisations manage their environmental impacts and improve environmental performance and accountability for  its products, services, and activities.

Feddersen Consulting Group can assist in developing environmental management systems that comply with the following: ISO:14001:2015

How do we get ISO certified?

Once you have implemented your management system an auditor from a Certification Body will sight objective evidence to support conformity with each of the sub-clauses (clause 4-10) of the ISO Standard e.g., ISO:9001 Quality Management Systems.  We will assist in the development of the management system and ensure that it meets all of the requirements prior to the certification audit.

The auditor will identify any areas of the organisation’s system that may need improvement or are doing well. The certification process is a good way to encourage consistent improvement for the organisation.

What is the ISO 14001 standard?

The ISO 14001 standard is part of the ISO 14000 family of standards related to environmental management. It specifies the requirements for an effective environmental management system (EMS) and helps organizations enhance their environmental performance. Implementing ISO 14001 demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and continual improvement.

Why is implementing ISO 14001 important for economic growth?

Implementing ISO 14001 can drive economic growth by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable use of natural resources. Organizations that adopt this standard often see cost savings and enhanced reputation, which can lead to increased business opportunities and economic development.

How does ISO 14001 support the use of renewable energy?

ISO 14001 encourages organizations to adopt practices that reduce environmental impact, including the use of renewable energy sources. By integrating renewable energy into their operations, organizations can decrease their reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and support global sustainability efforts.

What role do international standards play in environmental management?

International standards, like those in the ISO 14000 family, provide a consistent framework for organizations worldwide to manage their environmental impact. These standards promote best practices in environmental management, facilitate regulatory compliance, and foster global collaboration for sustainable development.

How does ISO 14001 align with the United Nations' goals?

ISO 14001 supports the United Nations’ goals for sustainable development by encouraging organizations to adopt practices that protect the environment and promote economic and social well-being. By aligning with these goals, organizations contribute to global efforts to address climate change, preserve natural resources, and improve quality of life.

Can an organization continually improve with ISO 14001?

Yes, continual improvement is a core principle of ISO 14001. The standard requires organizations to regularly review and enhance their environmental management systems, ensuring ongoing improvements in environmental performance and adapting to new challenges and opportunities.