On the implementation of an environmental management system in accordance with STB ISO 14001-2017

One of the directions for reducing the negative impact of economic entities on the environment is the creation and implementation of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) at enterprises and organizations, followed by their certification.

The implementation of EMS is a process of developing and introducing a system at an enterprise that allows managing the environmental aspects of its activities and reducing the negative impact on the environment. This contributes to compliance with legislation, cost reduction, increased competitiveness, and sustainable development.

Certification according to STB ISO 14001-2017 is confirmation of the organization's EMS compliance with the requirements of the national standard of the Republic of Belarus STB ISO 14001-2017 Environmental management systems. Requirements and guidance for use (hereinafter referred to as STB ISO 14001-2017), which is based on the international standard ISO 14001.

Stages of EMS implementation in accordance with STB ISO 14001-2017:

— Training of employees on the basics of EMS and the requirements of STB ISO 14001-2017;

— Development of an action plan for EMS implementation;

— Analysis of internal and external factors that may affect the implementation of EMS;

— Development of EMS documentation in accordance with the requirements of STB ISO 14001-2017;

— Conducting an internal audit to assess the effectiveness of the implemented EMS;

— Submission of a certification application to an accredited certification body;

— Undergoing an EMS audit and obtaining an environmental certificate of conformity.

Certification according to STB ISO 14001-2017 is voluntary, but the presence of a certificate demonstrates the organization's commitment to the principles of environmental responsibility and can be an important factor for its successful operation.