A new version of EN ISO 14001:2026 ‘Environmental management systems - Requirements with guidance for use’ is now available. EN ISO 14001 is the internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems (EMS). It was drafted by ISO/TC 207/SC 1 ‘Environmental management systems’, in close cooperation with CEN.
The previous version of the standard is already widely adopted across the globe, including throughout Europe, where it is firmly established as a key reference for environmental compliance and best practice. It provides organizations with a structured framework to design, implement, and continually improve their EMS. By following this standard, organizations can take proactive steps to reduce their environmental impact, meet legal and regulatory requirements, and achieve defined environmental objectives. The framework addresses a broad range of areas, including resource efficiency, waste management, performance monitoring, and stakeholder engagement in environmental commitments.
The 2026 edition reinforces the core priorities of environmental protection and strong business performance. Building on the trusted EN ISO 14001 published in 2015, which is already extensively used across European markets, the updated version introduces a clearer structure, improved usability, and closer alignment with current environmental challenges and expectations.