ISO 14001:2015 Clause 4.3 Determining the scope of the environmental management system

ISO 14001:2015 Requirements

The organization shall determine the boundaries and applicability of the environmental management system to establish its scope.
When determining this scope, the organization shall consider:
a) the external and internal issues referred to in 4.1;
b) the compliance obligations referred to in 4.2;
c) its organizational units, functions and physical boundaries;
d) its activities, products and services;
e) its authority and ability to exercise control and influence.

Once the scope is defined, all activities, products and services of the organization within that scope need to be included in the environmental management system.
The scope shall be maintained as documented information and be available to interested parties.

As per Annex A (Guidance on the use of ISO 14001:2015 standard) of ISO 14001:2015 standard it further explains:

The scope of the environmental management system is intended to clarify the physical and organizational boundaries to which the environmental management system applies, especially if the organization is a part of a larger organization. An organization has the freedom and flexibility to define its boundaries. It may choose to implement this International Standard throughout the entire organization, or only in (a) specific part(s) of the organization, as long as the top management for that (those) part(s) has authority to establish an environmental management system. In setting the scope, the credibility of the environmental management system depends upon the choice of organizational boundaries. The organization considers the extent of control or influence that it can exert over activities, products and services considering a life cycle perspective. Scoping should not be used to exclude activities, products, services, or facilities that have or can have significant environmental aspects, or to evade its compliance obligations. The scope is a factual and representative statement of the organization’s operations included within its environmental management system boundaries that should not mislead interested parties. Once the organization asserts it conforms to this International Standard, the requirement to make the scope statement available to interested parties applies.

1) Determining scope of Environmental management system

The scope of the Environmental Management System (EMS) defines the boundaries and applicability of the system within an organization. It specifies the range of activities, products, services, and geographic locations covered by the EMS and outlines the organization’s commitment to managing its environmental impacts and complying with relevant laws and regulations. The EMS scope is a clear and concise statement that communicates which aspects of the organization’s operations are included and excluded, ensuring that environmental objectives, targets, and management processes are appropriately directed toward mitigating environmental risks and improving environmental performance within defined limits. This scope statement serves as a foundational document guiding the organization’s environmental management efforts and should be reviewed and updated as necessary to reflect changes in organizational activities and priorities.Determining the scope of an Environmental Management System (EMS) is a crucial initial step in establishing an effective environmental management program within an organization. The scope defines the boundaries of the EMS and specifies which aspects of the organization’s operations, activities, and environmental impacts are included. Here’s how an organization can determine the scope of its EMS:

1. Understand Organizational Goals and Commitments: Begin by understanding the organization’s environmental goals and commitments. This may include compliance with environmental regulations, reducing carbon emissions, conserving resources, or improving environmental performance.
2. Identify Organizational Boundaries: Clearly define the organizational boundaries. Determine which facilities, departments, subsidiaries, or operations are included in the scope of the EMS.
3. Identify Environmental Aspects: Conduct an environmental aspect assessment to identify and evaluate the significant environmental aspects associated with the organization’s activities, products, and services. Aspects could include energy consumption, water use, waste generation, emissions, and more.
4. Determine Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Understand the environmental laws, regulations, and permits that apply to the organization’s operations. Ensure that the EMS scope encompasses compliance with these requirements.
5. Consider Stakeholder Interests: Take into account the interests and concerns of stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, regulatory agencies, and local communities. Addressing stakeholder expectations can help define the EMS scope.
6. Set Environmental Objectives and Targets: Establish specific environmental objectives and targets that align with the organization’s environmental policy. The scope should encompass activities related to achieving these objectives.
7. Evaluate Risks and Opportunities: Assess the environmental risks and opportunities associated with the organization’s operations. The scope should include activities aimed at mitigating risks and capitalizing on opportunities.
8. Consider Product and Service Life-cycle: If relevant, consider the entire life-cycle of the organization’s products or services, including design, manufacturing, distribution, use, and disposal. Ensure that the EMS scope covers environmental considerations throughout the life-cycle.
9. Document the Scope Statement: Create a clear and concise statement that defines the scope of the EMS. This statement should include:
   • A description of the organization’s activities, products, and services covered by the EMS.
   • The location of facilities and operations included.
   • The boundaries of the EMS, specifying what is and isn’t included.
   • Any relevant environmental aspects, legal requirements, and objectives.
10. Review and Approval: Present the scope statement to senior management for review and approval. It’s essential to have top-level commitment and support.
11. Communicate and Implement: Once approved, communicate the EMS scope to all relevant stakeholders and implement procedures and processes to address the identified aspects and objectives.
12. Monitor and Review: Regularly monitor and review the EMS to ensure that it remains aligned with the organization’s goals, changes in regulations, and evolving environmental aspects.
13. Periodic Review and Updates: Periodically revisit and update the EMS scope to reflect changes in the organization’s activities, objectives, and environmental performance.

Determining the scope of the EMS should be a collaborative process involving key stakeholders, including environmental, legal, and operational experts, to ensure it accurately represents the organization’s environmental responsibilities and commitments. It’s a dynamic process that may evolve as the organization’s goals and environmental priorities change over time.

2) The organization shall determine the boundaries and applicability of the environmental management system to establish its scope.

Determining the boundaries and applicability of the Environmental Management System (EMS) is a fundamental step in establishing the scope of the EMS. This process helps the organization define the limits within which the EMS will operate and identify the specific activities, processes, and areas that will be covered. Here are some key considerations:

1. Organizational Boundaries: Define the organizational boundaries by specifying which facilities, departments, subsidiaries, or operations are included in the scope of the EMS. This should encompass all parts of the organization that have significant environmental aspects.
2. Activities, Products, and Services: Clearly describe the activities, products, and services that fall within the scope of the EMS. Identify those that have environmental impacts that need to be managed.
3. Geographic Boundaries: Determine the geographic boundaries, including the physical locations and regions covered by the EMS. Consider if the scope extends to international operations or is limited to specific countries or regions.
4. Lifecycle Considerations:If relevant, assess whether the EMS should cover the entire lifecycle of products or services, from design and development to disposal and recycling.
5. Environmental Aspects: Identify and evaluate the environmental aspects associated with the organization’s operations and activities. These aspects might include energy consumption, water use, waste generation, emissions, and more. Ensure that the EMS scope addresses significant aspects.
6. Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Understand the environmental laws, regulations, and permits that apply to the organization’s operations. Ensure that the EMS scope encompasses compliance with these requirements.
7. Stakeholder Interests: Take into account the interests and concerns of various stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, regulatory agencies, and local communities. Addressing stakeholder expectations can help define the EMS scope.
8. Environmental Objectives and Targets: Establish specific environmental objectives and targets that align with the organization’s environmental policy. Ensure that the EMS scope covers activities related to achieving these objectives.
9. Risks and Opportunities: Assess the environmental risks and opportunities associated with the organization’s operations. Define the scope to include activities aimed at mitigating risks and capitalizing on opportunities.
10. Documentation: Document the scope statement clearly and concisely, providing a description of what is included and excluded from the EMS. This statement should be communicated to relevant parties within the organization.
11. Management Approval: Present the scope statement to senior management for review and approval. Top-level commitment and support are crucial to ensuring that the EMS is effectively implemented.
12. Periodic Review and Updates: Periodically revisit and update the EMS scope to reflect changes in the organization’s activities, objectives, and environmental performance.

The determination of the EMS scope is a foundational step in the development of an effective environmental management program, and it should align with the organization’s environmental goals and commitments. It’s important to ensure that the scope is clear, well-documented, and regularly reviewed to remain aligned with the organization’s evolving needs and priorities.

3) When determining this scope, the organization shall consider the external and internal issues referred to in Clause 4.1

To consider internal and external issues related to the Environmental Management System (EMS) when determining its scope, an organization can follow a structured approach:

1. Identify Relevant Internal and External Issues:
   • Internal Issues: Start by identifying internal factors that can affect the organization’s environmental performance and its ability to manage environmental aspects effectively. These may include:
     • Leadership commitment and culture
     • Available resources (financial, human, technological)
     • Organizational structure and responsibilities
     • Processes and operations
     • Environmental aspects and impacts of activities, products, and services
     • Existing environmental objectives and targets
     • Previous environmental performance data and audits
   • External Issues: Identify external factors that are relevant to the organization’s environmental management efforts. These may include:
     • Legal and regulatory requirements at local, national, and international levels
     • Stakeholder expectations and concerns (customers, investors, communities)
     • Market trends and industry benchmarks
     • Emerging environmental issues and risks
     • Relationships with regulatory agencies and environmental organizations
     • Supply chain and vendor considerations
2. Evaluate the Significance: Assess the significance of these internal and external issues in the context of your organization’s goals and objectives. Consider their potential impact on environmental performance, compliance, and the achievement of your environmental objectives.
3. Prioritize and Analyze: Prioritize the identified issues based on their significance and relevance to the organization’s EMS. You may use tools like a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to help prioritize and analyze these factors.
4. Incorporate into EMS Scope: Integrate the insights from your assessment of internal and external issues into the development of the EMS scope. This should include a clear statement of what is included and excluded within the EMS boundaries, ensuring that it addresses the most significant environmental aspects, objectives, and risks.
5. Consultation and Involvement: Involve key stakeholders, including top management, environmental experts, and relevant departments, in the process. Their input can provide valuable perspectives on which issues are most critical and how they should be addressed within the EMS.
6. Document and Communicate: Document the EMS scope, including a description of how internal and external issues have been considered, in a clear and concise manner. Ensure that this information is communicated effectively to all relevant parties within the organization.
7. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically review and update the EMS scope to ensure that it remains aligned with changing internal and external factors. Environmental management is dynamic, and the scope should evolve as the organization’s priorities and circumstances change.

By systematically considering internal and external issues during the determination of the EMS scope, the organization can create a more effective and responsive environmental management program that aligns with its goals, minimizes risks, and maximizes opportunities for improvement.

4) When determining this scope, the organization shall consider the compliance obligations referred to in Clause 4.2

When determining the scope of its Environmental Management System (EMS), an organization should carefully consider its compliance obligations as they pertain to environmental regulations and requirements. Compliance with relevant laws and regulations is a fundamental aspect of environmental management. Here’s how an organization can consider its compliance obligations during the EMS scope determination process:

1. Identify Applicable Environmental Regulations: Conduct a thorough review to identify all environmental laws, regulations, permits, and other compliance obligations that are relevant to the organization’s operations. These could include local, national, and international environmental regulations that pertain to air quality, water management, waste disposal, hazardous materials handling, and more.
2. Assess the Significance of Compliance Obligations: Evaluate the significance of each compliance obligation in terms of its potential impact on the organization’s operations, environmental aspects, and legal responsibilities. Determine which obligations are most critical to the organization’s compliance efforts.
3. Incorporate Compliance Obligations into the Scope: Ensure that the EMS scope explicitly includes activities, processes, and areas related to meeting and maintaining compliance with identified obligations. This may involve specifying which facilities, departments, and operations are covered by compliance requirements.
4. Define Compliance Objectives and Targets: Establish environmental objectives and targets within the EMS that are directly linked to meeting compliance obligations. These objectives should outline the organization’s commitment to adhering to specific laws and regulations and may include measurable targets for performance improvement.
5. Allocate Resources: Allocate the necessary resources, both human and financial, to support compliance efforts within the EMS scope. This may involve training, equipment, monitoring, and reporting systems to ensure ongoing adherence to compliance requirements.
6. Monitoring and Reporting: Implement procedures for monitoring, measuring, and reporting on compliance with environmental regulations. This could include regular inspections, data collection, and reporting to regulatory authorities as required.
7. Document and Communicate: Document the organization’s commitment to compliance within the EMS documentation, including the scope statement, environmental policy, and procedures. Ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of their responsibilities regarding compliance.
8. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically review and update the EMS scope to account for changes in compliance obligations, such as new regulations or revisions to existing ones. Ensure that the scope remains aligned with the evolving regulatory landscape.
9. External Engagement:Engage with relevant regulatory agencies and authorities as necessary to maintain a clear understanding of current and future compliance obligations and to seek guidance or clarification when needed.

By considering compliance obligations when determining the scope of the EMS, the organization not only ensures that it meets legal requirements but also establishes a proactive framework for environmental compliance and continuous improvement. This helps in minimizing environmental risks, maintaining a positive reputation, and demonstrating a commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

5) When determining this scope, the organization shall consider its organizational units, functions and physical boundaries

Considering organizational units, functions, and physical boundaries is essential when determining the scope of an Environmental Management System (EMS). This process helps define the extent to which the EMS will apply within the organization. Here’s how the organization can consider these factors:

1. Identify Organizational Units: Identify all relevant organizational units, departments, subsidiaries, or facilities within the organization. Consider both internal and external units, such as subcontractors or joint ventures, if they have a significant impact on the environment.
2. Assess Functions and Activities: Examine the functions and activities conducted by each organizational unit. Identify those that have environmental aspects or impacts. These could include manufacturing processes, administrative functions, transportation, research and development, and more.
3. Evaluate Physical Boundaries: Determine the physical boundaries of each organizational unit or facility. This includes their geographic location, size, and any specific areas within them that may have distinct environmental considerations.
4. Identify Environmental Aspects and Impacts: Conduct an assessment to identify and evaluate the environmental aspects and impacts associated with the functions and activities of each organizational unit. Consider aspects such as energy consumption, water use, waste generation, emissions, and resource usage.
5. Prioritize Significance: Prioritize the significance of environmental aspects and impacts based on criteria such as environmental risk, regulatory requirements, potential harm, and the organization’s objectives. Focus on those that have the most significant impact.
6. Include or Exclude: Based on the assessment of organizational units, functions, and physical boundaries, determine which areas and activities should be included in the EMS scope and which should be excluded. Be explicit about what is covered and what is not.
7. Document the Scope Statement: Document the scope statement clearly and concisely. It should describe which organizational units, functions, and physical boundaries are included, specify the extent of the coverage, and mention any exclusions.
8. Allocate Responsibilities: Assign responsibilities within each organizational unit for implementing the EMS and managing environmental aspects. Define roles and responsibilities to ensure accountability.
9. Review and Approval: Present the scope statement to senior management or appropriate stakeholders for review and approval. Ensure that top management understands and supports the boundaries of the EMS.
10. Communicate and Train: Communicate the EMS scope to all relevant personnel within the included organizational units and provide training as necessary. Ensure that employees understand their roles in implementing the EMS.
11. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically review and update the EMS scope to account for changes in organizational structure, functions, activities, or physical boundaries. Ensure that the scope remains aligned with the evolving organizational landscape.

By considering organizational units, functions, and physical boundaries, the organization can establish a clear and well-defined scope for its EMS. This scope ensures that environmental aspects are effectively managed and that responsibilities for environmental performance are clearly defined within the organization’s structure. It also helps align the EMS with the organization’s specific operations and objectives.

6) When determining this scope, the organization shall consider its activities, products and services

Considering its activities, products, and services is a crucial aspect of determining the scope of an Environmental Management System (EMS) for an organization. Here’s how the organization can effectively consider these factors:

1. Identify Activities, Products, and Services: Begin by identifying all the activities, products, and services offered by the organization. This includes core business operations as well as support functions and any outsourced activities.
2. Assess Environmental Aspects and Impacts: For each identified activity, product, or service, conduct an assessment to identify and evaluate the environmental aspects and impacts associated with them. Consider aspects such as energy consumption, water use, waste generation, emissions, and resource usage.
3. Prioritize Significance:Prioritize the environmental aspects and impacts based on criteria such as environmental risk, regulatory requirements, potential harm, and the organization’s objectives. Focus on those that have the most significant impact.
4. Include or Exclude: Based on the assessment of activities, products, and services, determine which should be included in the EMS scope and which should be excluded. Be explicit about what is covered and what is not.
5. Document the Scope Statement: Document the scope statement clearly and concisely. It should describe which activities, products, and services are included, specify the extent of the coverage, and mention any exclusions.
6. Allocate Responsibilities: Assign responsibilities for implementing the EMS and managing environmental aspects related to each activity, product, or service. Define roles and responsibilities to ensure accountability.
7. Environmental Objectives and Targets: Establish environmental objectives and targets within the EMS scope that are directly linked to the environmental aspects and impacts of the included activities, products, and services. These objectives should outline the organization’s commitment to environmental improvement.
8. Compliance Obligations: Ensure that the EMS scope explicitly includes activities, products, and services related to meeting and maintaining compliance with relevant environmental regulations and requirements.
9. Resource Allocation: Allocate the necessary resources, both human and financial, to support EMS implementation within the included activities, products, and services. This may involve training, equipment, monitoring, and reporting systems.
10. Review and Approval: Present the scope statement to senior management or appropriate stakeholders for review and approval. Ensure that top management understands and supports the boundaries of the EMS.
11. Communicate and Train: Communicate the EMS scope to all relevant personnel involved in the included activities, products, and services and provide training as necessary. Ensure that employees understand their roles in implementing the EMS.
12. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically review and update the EMS scope to account for changes in activities, products, and services, including new offerings or discontinued ones. Ensure that the scope remains aligned with the evolving organizational landscape.

By considering its activities, products, and services in the determination of the EMS scope, the organization can establish a focused and tailored environmental management program that addresses its specific environmental aspects and impacts. This approach ensures that environmental responsibilities are integrated into the organization’s operations and objectives and that resources are allocated effectively to manage environmental performance.

7) When determining this scope, the organization shall consider its authority and ability to exercise control and influence

Considering the organization’s authority and ability to exercise control and influence is an important aspect of determining the scope of its Environmental Management System (EMS). This step helps the organization set realistic boundaries and ensures that the EMS scope aligns with its capabilities. Here’s how to incorporate this consideration into the scope determination process:

1. Identify Areas of Authority and Control: Begin by identifying the areas within the organization where it has authority and the ability to exercise control or influence. This could include:
   • Directly owned facilities and operations.
   • Facilities or operations in which the organization holds a significant stake or has management control.
   • Processes or activities where the organization has decision-making authority.
2. Assess Environmental Aspects and Impacts: For each area of authority and control identified, conduct an assessment to identify and evaluate the environmental aspects and impacts associated with them. Consider aspects such as energy consumption, water use, waste generation, emissions, and resource usage.
3. Prioritize Significance: Prioritize the environmental aspects and impacts based on criteria such as environmental risk, regulatory requirements, potential harm, and the organization’s objectives. Focus on those areas where the organization can exercise meaningful control and influence.
4. Include or Exclude: Based on the assessment of areas of authority and control, determine which should be included in the EMS scope and which should be excluded. Be explicit about what is covered and what is not.
5. Document the Scope Statement: Document the scope statement clearly and concisely. It should describe which areas of authority and control are included, specify the extent of the coverage, and mention any exclusions.
6. Allocate Responsibilities: Assign responsibilities for implementing the EMS and managing environmental aspects related to each area of authority and control. Define roles and responsibilities to ensure accountability.
7. Environmental Objectives and Targets: Establish environmental objectives and targets within the EMS scope that are directly linked to the environmental aspects and impacts of the included areas of authority and control. These objectives should outline the organization’s commitment to environmental improvement.
8. Compliance Obligations: Ensure that the EMS scope explicitly includes areas where the organization has compliance obligations related to environmental regulations and requirements.
9. Resource Allocation: Allocate the necessary resources, both human and financial, to support EMS implementation within the included areas of authority and control. This may involve training, equipment, monitoring, and reporting systems.
10. Review and Approval: Present the scope statement to senior management or appropriate stakeholders for review and approval. Ensure that top management understands and supports the boundaries of the EMS.
11. Communicate and Train: Communicate the EMS scope to all relevant personnel involved in the included areas of authority and control and provide training as necessary. Ensure that employees understand their roles in implementing the EMS.
12. Regular Review and Updates: Periodically review and update the EMS scope to account for changes in areas of authority and control, including acquisitions, divestitures, or changes in decision-making authority. Ensure that the scope remains aligned with the evolving organizational landscape.

By considering its authority and ability to exercise control and influence, the organization can establish a realistic and effective EMS scope that focuses on areas where it can make meaningful environmental improvements. This approach ensures that the EMS is aligned with the organization’s capabilities and resources, making it more likely to achieve its environmental goals and objectives.

8) Once the scope is defined, all activities, products and services of the organization within that scope need to be included in the environmental management system.

Once the scope of the Environmental Management System (EMS) is defined, all activities, products, and services of the organization within that scope should be included in the EMS. The EMS is designed to comprehensively manage and address the environmental aspects and impacts associated with those activities, products, and services. This inclusion is essential for several reasons:

1. Comprehensive Environmental Management: By including all relevant activities, products, and services within the EMS scope, the organization can ensure that it systematically addresses all environmental aspects and impacts associated with its operations. This comprehensive approach allows for a more thorough understanding and management of environmental risks and opportunities.
2. Consistency: Including all relevant elements within the scope promotes consistency in environmental management practices across the organization. It ensures that environmental objectives, targets, and procedures apply uniformly to all activities and services, reducing the risk of oversight or inconsistency in environmental performance.
3. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: It helps ensure that the organization remains compliant with all applicable environmental laws, regulations, and permit requirements for the included activities and services. Non-compliance can lead to legal and financial consequences.
4. Resource Allocation: Resource allocation, such as budgeting, personnel, and technology investments, can be more effectively planned and distributed when all relevant activities and services are considered. This enables the organization to prioritize and allocate resources to address environmental aspects and meet objectives effectively.
5. Stakeholder Expectations: Inclusion of all relevant activities and services aligns with stakeholder expectations. Stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory agencies, often expect organizations to manage environmental impacts associated with all aspects of their operations.
6. Performance Improvement: A holistic approach to environmental management allows for a better understanding of the organization’s environmental performance. This insight facilitates continuous improvement efforts by identifying areas where efficiency gains, waste reduction, and environmental impact reduction can be achieved.
7. Risk Mitigation: Addressing all relevant activities, products, and services within the EMS scope helps mitigate environmental risks associated with those operations. It allows for proactive risk assessment and risk reduction strategies.
8. Transparent Reporting: Inclusion of all relevant elements in the EMS ensures that the organization can provide transparent and accurate reporting on its environmental performance to stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the public.

In summary, including all activities, products, and services within the defined scope of the EMS is essential for effective environmental management. It enables the organization to systematically address environmental aspects, comply with regulations, allocate resources efficiently, and continuously improve its environmental performance.

9) The scope shall be maintained as documented information

Maintaining the scope of the Environmental Management System (EMS) as documented information is important to ensure that the scope remains clear, up-to-date, and effectively communicated to all relevant stakeholders. Here are steps for maintaining the EMS scope as documented information:

1. Document the Scope Statement: Start by creating a well-documented scope statement that clearly defines the boundaries and applicability of the EMS. This statement should describe what is included and excluded within the EMS scope.
2. Version Control: Implement a version control system for the scope statement. Assign a unique identifier or version number to the document. This helps ensure that everyone is working with the latest version.
3. Centralized Document Repository: Maintain a centralized and accessible repository for all EMS-related documents, including the scope statement. This can be a document management system or a designated folder on the organization’s network.
4. Regular Reviews: Schedule regular reviews of the EMS scope to ensure it remains accurate and aligned with the organization’s activities and objectives. These reviews can be conducted annually or as needed in response to changes in the organization.
5. Change Management: Implement a change management process for any proposed changes to the EMS scope. Changes should be carefully evaluated and documented. If changes are approved, update the scope statement accordingly.
6. Document Revisions: Whenever a change is made to the scope statement, update the documented information and ensure that it reflects the current state of the EMS. Clearly indicate the date of the revision and the reason for the change.
7. Communication and Training: Communicate any changes or updates to the EMS scope to all relevant personnel within the organization. Provide training or awareness programs as necessary to ensure that employees are aware of the scope and any changes made to it.
8. Maintain Historical Records: Keep historical records of previous versions of the scope statement and associated documentation. This can be useful for reference, auditing, and compliance purposes.
9. Internal Audits: Include the EMS scope as part of internal audit activities. Periodically audit the scope to verify that it accurately reflects the organization’s current operations and environmental commitments.
10. Alignment with Management Review: As part of the regular management review process required by EMS standards (e.g., ISO 14001), ensure that the EMS scope is discussed, reviewed, and validated by top management.
11. External Audits and Certifications: If the organization seeks external certification of its EMS (e.g., ISO 14001 certification), ensure that the scope statement is readily available for external auditors and that it accurately represents the EMS boundaries.
12. Employee Involvement: Encourage employees and stakeholders to provide feedback or suggestions related to the EMS scope. Their input can be valuable for maintaining accuracy.

By following these steps, the organization can effectively maintain the EMS scope as documented information, ensuring that it remains a reliable reference for internal and external stakeholders and aligns with the organization’s environmental goals and commitments.

10) The Scope shall be made available to interested parties.

Making the scope of the Environmental Management System (EMS) available to interested parties is essential for transparency and communication of the organization’s environmental commitments and boundaries. Here are several ways to ensure the EMS scope is readily accessible to those who need it:

1. Publish on the Organization’s Website: One of the most accessible ways to make the EMS scope available is to publish it on the organization’s official website. Create a dedicated web-page or section that provides information about the scope, including a downloadable copy of the scope statement.
2. Incorporate into Environmental Policy: Include the EMS scope within the organization’s environmental policy statement. Ensure that the policy is prominently displayed on the website and in relevant documents.
3. Share with Key Stakeholders: Distribute the EMS scope to key stakeholders who have an interest in the organization’s environmental performance. This includes customers, suppliers, regulatory agencies, local communities, and any other parties affected by or interested in the organization’s environmental activities.
4. Annual Reports and Sustainability Reports: Include the EMS scope in annual reports or sustainability reports if the organization produces such documents. These reports are often made available to shareholders, investors, and the public.
5. Documentation Repository: Maintain a centralized repository for all EMS-related documents, including the scope statement. Ensure that authorized personnel within the organization and external stakeholders can access this repository.
6. Employee Communication: Share the EMS scope with employees during training, orientation, or awareness programs. Ensure that all employees are aware of the EMS boundaries and their roles in achieving its objectives.
7. Internal Intranet: If the organization has an internal intranet or communication platform, publish the EMS scope there for easy access by employees and internal stakeholders.
8. Compliance Documentation: Ensure that the EMS scope is included as part of the documentation provided to regulatory agencies during audits or compliance assessments.
9. External Certifications: If the organization seeks external certifications, such as ISO 14001 certification, ensure that the EMS scope is available for external auditors and certification bodies.
10. Customer Engagement: Share the EMS scope with customers upon request or as part of supplier questionnaires. Many customers are interested in knowing about a supplier’s environmental practices.
11. Environmental Reports and Performance Metrics: Include information about the EMS scope in environmental reports and performance metrics that are shared with interested parties. This provides context for environmental data.
12. Email and Contact Information: Provide contact information, such as an email address or a designated point of contact, for inquiries related to the EMS scope. Interested parties can reach out with questions or requests for information.
13. Public Meetings and Forums: If the organization participates in public meetings or forums related to its environmental activities, present information about the EMS scope and provide copies to attendees.
14. Social Media and Press Releases: Use social media platforms and press releases to announce updates to the EMS scope or to highlight the organization’s commitment to environmental management.

Remember that the availability of the EMS scope should be communicated through multiple channels to ensure that interested parties can access it easily. Making the scope readily available demonstrates the organization’s commitment to transparency and environmental responsibility.

Example of establishment of scope of EMS

Here’s an example of how an organization might establish the scope of its Environmental Management System (EMS):

Organization: XYZ Manufacturing Company

Step 1: Identify Organizational Boundaries

XYZ Manufacturing Company is a global manufacturer of electronic components with facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The organization includes manufacturing plants, research and development facilities, administrative offices, and distribution centers.

Step 2: Identify Activities, Products, and Services

XYZ Manufacturing Company engages in various activities, including the design, manufacturing, and distribution of electronic components for a range of industries, including automotive, telecommunications, and consumer electronics. Its products include printed circuit boards, microchips, and sensors. The organization also offers technical support and repair services for its products.

Step 3: Evaluate Environmental Aspects and Impacts

A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify the environmental aspects and impacts associated with XYZ Manufacturing Company’s operations. This assessment includes:

• Energy consumption and emissions from manufacturing processes
• Water use and wastewater management
• Hazardous material handling and disposal
• Waste generation and recycling efforts
• Emissions from transportation and distribution activities
• Environmental impacts of research and development activities

Step 4: Determine Geographic Boundaries

The EMS scope includes all XYZ Manufacturing Company facilities and operations worldwide, encompassing its manufacturing plants, R&D centers, administrative offices, and distribution centers.

Step 5: Assess Compliance Obligations

The organization identifies and evaluates the various environmental laws, regulations, and permits that apply to its operations in each geographic region. Compliance obligations are assessed, including air quality standards, waste disposal regulations, and water discharge permits.

Step 6: Consider Stakeholder Interests

XYZ Manufacturing Company takes into account the interests and concerns of various stakeholders, including customers, investors, regulatory agencies, and local communities. Feedback and expectations from these stakeholders are considered when defining the EMS scope.

Step 7: Define Environmental Objectives and Targets

Environmental objectives and targets are established based on the identified environmental aspects and impacts. These objectives include reducing energy consumption by 15% over the next three years, achieving zero hazardous waste violations, and increasing recycling rates by 20%.

Step 8: Document the Scope Statement

The scope statement is documented as follows:

“The scope of XYZ Manufacturing Company’s Environmental Management System (EMS) encompasses all of its global operations, including manufacturing facilities, research and development centers, administrative offices, and distribution centers. This scope covers activities related to the design, production, and distribution of electronic components and associated support services. The EMS aims to manage and minimize environmental impacts, ensure compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations, and achieve environmental objectives and targets set by the organization.”

Step 9: Obtain Management Approval

The scope statement is presented to senior management for review and approval. Top management reviews and endorses the scope, demonstrating their commitment to the EMS.

Step 10: Communicate and Train

The EMS scope is communicated to all employees and relevant stakeholders within the organization. Training and awareness programs are conducted to ensure that employees understand their roles and responsibilities.

Step 11: Regular Review and Updates

The EMS scope is reviewed annually or when significant changes occur in the organization’s operations or environmental aspects. Updates are made as needed to reflect changes and ensure alignment with the organization’s environmental goals and commitments.

This example illustrates how an organization like XYZ Manufacturing Company can establish the scope of its EMS by considering various factors, including organizational boundaries, activities, products, compliance obligations, and stakeholder interests. The scope statement provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the organization’s commitment to environmental management.

Documented Information required:

To meet the requirements of this clause, organizations typically maintain specific documents and records. Here’s what you may need:

Documents:

1. Environmental Policy (Documented Information): A documented statement of the organization’s environmental policy, which should include the commitment to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve the EMS. It should be available and communicated within the organization.
2. Scope Statement (Documented Information): A documented scope statement clearly defining the boundaries and applicability of the EMS. It should specify what is included and excluded, and how the scope aligns with the organization’s environmental objectives and impacts.
3. External and Internal Issues (Documented Information):Records or documented information that show how the organization has considered external and internal issues relevant to the EMS scope determination. This can include records of stakeholder consultations, legal and regulatory reviews, and assessments of internal factors.

Records:

1. Records of Scope Determination (Records): Documentation of the process used to determine the EMS scope, including factors considered, criteria used for inclusion and exclusion, and the rationale behind these decisions. This helps demonstrate the thoroughness of the scope determination process.
2. Evidence of Compliance Obligations (Records): Records showing the organization’s assessment of compliance obligations, including environmental laws, regulations, permits, and other requirements relevant to the EMS scope.
3. Documentation of Stakeholder Engagement (Records): Records demonstrating how the organization has engaged with relevant stakeholders to understand their interests, concerns, and expectations regarding the EMS scope.
4. Environmental Aspects and Impacts Assessment (Records): Records of the assessment of environmental aspects and impacts associated with the organization’s activities, products, and services within the EMS scope. This should include a list of identified aspects and their significance.
5. Environmental Objectives and Targets (Records): Documentation of established environmental objectives and targets within the EMS scope, along with related action plans and responsible parties. These records show the organization’s commitment to environmental improvement.
6. Communication and Training Records (Records): Records of how the EMS scope is communicated and explained to employees and relevant stakeholders, along with training records to ensure that employees understand their roles in achieving EMS objectives within the defined scope.
7. Management Approval (Records): Records demonstrating that senior management has reviewed and approved the EMS scope statement. This includes meeting minutes or decision records.
8. Periodic Reviews and Updates (Records): Records of periodic reviews and updates of the EMS scope, including any changes made to the scope statement based on changes in organizational operations, environmental aspects, or other factors.

By maintaining these documents and records, organizations can demonstrate compliance with ISO 14001:2015 Clause 4.3 and provide evidence of their commitment to establishing a well-defined and effective EMS scope. These documents and records also serve as a valuable resource for communication, training, and continuous improvement within the organization.