Challenges in implementing ISO 14001

Adopting internationally recognised procedures for environmental management systems reduces emissions and contributes to the efficient use of resources. Besides, organisations can reduce the risk of insurance claims and prosecution arising from environmental problems.

In most cases, organisations cannot meet the standard requirement due to various challenges. Understanding these challenges allows you to stay prepared and work through them efficiently. Some of the most common ISO 14001 implementation challenges include.

Problem solving

Understanding the environmental impact of an organisation makes implementing ISO 14001 easy. However, sometimes the situation may be a bit complex. For instance, you may have to conduct a statistical analysis. Organisations with fewer resources may find it hard to capture and analyse data appropriately.

Complying with the regulations

Businesses are subjected to complex environmental impact regulations. Without the dedication and environmental legislation understanding, your organisation’s efforts to comply may seem futile. Before creating your organisation’s certified EMS (Environmental Management Systems), it is essential to learn about the regulations to follow.

Invest in training your in-house team to maintain legal compliance. You can also engage a consultant to ensure that your organisation’s operations meet regulatory compliance. Working with an accredited ISO certification body allows you to meet regulatory requirements more effortlessly.

Leadership & participation

Any ISO standard requires support and participation from the top leadership in the organisation, and most executives are occasionally busy and less involved in ISO 14001 implementation operations. Besides, most leaders set ultra-lenient and unrealistic targets to paint the organisation in good light.

Transparency

Most organisations cannot relay the correct information to employees and other stakeholders. Since customers make decisions by evaluating whether the companies are ISO certified, they should also be informed about the intentions to establish and maintain a good environmental management system. Failing to disseminate the right information reduces the engagement of employees, customers, and other stakeholders in EMS operations.

Balance

When most organisations begin to evaluate processes and make changes to improve the environment, they reduce productivity. Organisations need to strike a balance between the needs of the shareholders and customers and the environmental improvements.

The changes should not be so limiting to limit the organisation from reaping the benefits of ISO 14001. If the EMS limits the processes and operations of the company, it may be challenging to achieve the intended outcome of implementing Environment Management Systems.

Setting goals

Organisations seeking ISO 14001 certification are responsible for setting their environmental objectives. Sometimes it may not be easy to set realistic sustainability goals.

How Citation Certification can help

Are you struggling to establish and implement ISO 14001 requirements in your company? Worry no more because we are ready to assist you at Citation Certification. We offer a wide range of training services to ensure your organisation complies with the set standards. Contact us today to learn more about our training, auditing, and ISO certification process.