ISO 14001 specifies the general requirements for an environmental management system that an organization can use to manage its environmental responsibilities and enhance environmental performance. ISO 14001 is an Environmental Management System that all organisations, regardless of their activities, products or services can apply and certify to.

ISO 14001 standards on environmental management provides a framework that an organization can follow to set, evaluate and manage environmental aspects in order to achieve the following goals:

• protect the environment,
• focus on continuous improvement,
• respect the legal requirements and avoid fines,
•  conserve natural resources and drive down cost,
•  improve the image of the organisation,
•  improve communication with public authorities.