What is EN ISO 13861-2021

EN ISO 13861-2021 is a professional technical standard that provides guidelines for organizations in measuring and improving their environmental performance. It outlines the requirements and recommendations for implementing an effective environmental management system (EMS) within an organization.

Understanding the Scope of EN ISO 13861-2021

The scope of EN ISO 13861-2021 is to assist organizations, regardless of their size or industry, in establishing a framework for identifying, assessing, and managing their environmental impacts and risks. The standard emphasizes the importance of aligning environmental objectives with the organization's overall goals, and integrating environmental considerations into decision-making processes across all levels.

Key Principles and Requirements of EN ISO 13861-2021

EN ISO 13861-2021 is based on a set of key principles that guide organizations towards achieving a sustainable balance between environmental protection and socio-economic needs. These principles include:

Adopting a proactive approach towards environmental management

Continual improvement of environmental performance

Compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements

Considering life cycle thinking in all aspects of the organization's activities

Engaging stakeholders in decision-making processes

The standard lays out specific requirements for organizations to establish and maintain an EMS. This includes:

Identifying and documenting the organization's environmental policy

Defining roles, responsibilities, and authorities for environmental management

Conducting regular environmental reviews and audits

Setting environmental objectives and targets

Monitoring and measuring environmental performance

Taking corrective and preventive actions when necessary

Benefits of Implementing EN ISO 13861-2021

Implementing EN ISO 13861-2021 can bring several benefits to an organization. Firstly, it helps in reducing environmental risks and impacts, leading to cost savings and resource efficiencies. Secondly, it enhances the organization's reputation by demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices. Thirdly, it provides a competitive advantage by enabling access to new markets and meeting customer expectations for environmentally responsible products and services.

In conclusion, EN ISO 13861-2021 is a valuable tool for organizations looking to enhance their environmental performance and achieve sustainable growth. By adopting the principles and requirements outlined in this standard, organizations can effectively manage their environmental impact and contribute to a greener future.