In addition to the implementation of an environmental policy in a company structure, there is the possibility for the company or organization to obtain certificates as proof of the environmental management systems introduced as part of the environmental policy. These systems are assessed by external experts; if the specifications are met, the companies are awarded certificates. Although such certification by external experts places an additional financial burden on the company, many companies decide to take this step. The reasons for this may be to improve their image, meet customer requirements or improve their organization (processes) (UBA 2001).
There are two different certification options or guidelines that define the environmental management procedure and thus the path to certification:
1. ISO 14001
2. EMAS
The international environmental management standard ISO 14001 defines a company's environmental management procedure analogous to the PDCA model described in chapter 11. Progress is monitored as part of an internal company audit. This standardized environmental management system can be audited by external certifiers (such as TÜV or DEKRA) and subsequently certified. ISO 14001 is an environmental management system used worldwide with over 300,000 certified companies and organizations in a total of 171 countries (ISO 2023).
Compared to ISO 14001, EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) defines the environmental management system somewhat more broadly. All the requirements of ISO 14001 must be met and additional requirements are placed on the company's environmental management. For example, EMAS-certified companies must draw up an annual public environmental statement, record key indicators relating to environmental protection and have their environmental management system audited by an accredited auditor. EMAS is based on an EU regulation and therefore has a legal basis, but is only used within the EU. Unlike ISO 14001, there is an official and uniform EMAS logo, which over 4000 companies and organizations are currently permitted to use (EU 2023).
A promotional video about EMAS can be viewed at the following link:
Despite the positive aspects that environmental management systems can bring, some environmental associations criticize them. In particular, there are accusations of greenwashing with the help of EMAS or ISO 14001 certificates. In greenwashing, companies or organizations that contribute significantly to environmental pollution attempt to create a green image in the public eye through targeted marketing campaigns in combination with the acquisition of labels and certificates, without achieving any significant reduction in the environmental impact caused. EMAS attempts to counter and refute such accusations through transparency and the use of independent, state-recognized experts.
Environmental management attempts to identify as many environmental aspects and sustainability factors of economic activity as possible and to minimize the negative consequences for the environment over the years. One environmental aspect (land use change) is examined in more detail in the next chapter.