AS ISO 14004:2018 PDF

This Standard is to provide guidance for an organization on the establishment, implementation, maintenance and improvement of a robust, credible and reliable environmental management system.

Achieving a balance between the environment, society and the economy is considered essential to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable development is a goal achieved by balancing the three pillars of sustainability: the environment, society and the economy. Organizations, whether public or private, large or small, in developed or in emerging economies, have an impact on the environment and can be affected by the environment in return. There is a growing understanding that human development and well-being are contingent on preserving and conserving our natural resources, upon which all human activity and productivity depend. Achieving sound environmental performance requires organizational commitment to a systematic approach and to continual improvement of an environmental management system.

Societal expectations are driving the need for improved management of the resources necessary to support human development, through greater efficiency, transparency and accountability for all organizations. There are growing pressures on the environment, from climate change, overconsumption of resources and the challenges created by degradation of ecosystems and the loss of biodiversity.