Tags:circular economy, environmental management systems and life cycle thinking
Abstract:
The business sector needs more informational support and know-how to transition to a circular business model. The concept of circular economy is coming with a new perspective on what sustainability means based on a system that upcycles, recycles, and reuses and therefore eliminates waste, secures a reduction in resources and raw materials, has energy efficiency, and adds value to existing materials. All these elements are imperative in the transition to climate neutrality. Are we ready for this transition? Do we already have a model, a reference how to get started with circular economy? ISO 14001 is one of most well-known environmental certifiable standards around the world. Most of the certified organizations are already prepared to identify, manage, monitor and control their environmental issues in a “holistic” or systematic manner. ISO 14001 can help to bridge the gap between advanced knowledge demand for circular economy and existing skills and practices. The most important update of the last version of standard is life cycle thinking approach of classical environmental aspects from product or service design (from cradle) to end-of-life (to grave), looking for opportunity to find a new life of the same product or a new way to use it, making this organizations (small but numerous entities) to protect our environment proactively. Five reasons why ISO 14000 standards could support transition to circular economy: 1. Wide recognition of standard 2. Certified organizations area already prepared for a systematic approach and understand better their boundaries and opportunities regarding transition to sustainability. 3. Presence of ISO 14001 standard on Green Public Procurement procedures. 4. Integration of supplier’s chain into the organization’s business systems. 5. Environmental management competencies and skills already developed for ISO 14000 standards family and environmental legal requirements .
Could Be ISO 14001 an Efficient Management Tool for Individual Organization’s Transition to Circular Economy?