It’s another feather in our cap, the ISO 14001:2015 certification. Maclean went for this certification as we’re well aware of the fact that the world is facing rapid environmental challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and biodiversity loss. Businesses can play an important role in addressing these environmental challenges, and ISO 14001:2015 provides a structured and systematic approach to environmental management.
What is ISO 14001:2015?
ISO 14001:2015 is an internationally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS) that ensure more efficient use of resources, reduction of waste, improve environmental related controls, measurements, and performance, contributing to a more sustainable environment.1
The revision in 2015 increased the prominence of environmental management in the strategic planning processes, solicit input from leaders, and assert stronger commitment from the top in environmental performance.2
Why is ISO 14001:2015 Important to Maclean?
ISO 14001:2015 is structured around the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology, whereby organisations are encouraged to develop environmental objectives and measurable actions plan, measure progress, and continually improve its environmental management practices. The methodology guides businesses to view environmental issues strategically, relevant to growth and operational efficiency, such as reduce air and noise pollution, water and energy consumption, better waste and sewage management, prevent soil, river, and ozone contamination, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and resources efficiency.
Businesses that adhere to ISO 14001:2015 have experienced these benefits:
1. Enhanced environmental performance: By adhering to the ISO 14001:2015 framework, businesses can better manage environmental aspects, reduce the environmental impact of operations, promote sustainability across the board, impacting the communities where the businesses operate in.
2. Improved relationships through compliance: ISO 14001:2015 helps businesses avoid penalties or legal repercussions, reduce liability, and comply with the regulations of the governing body, and the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change (MESTECC).
3. Resource and cost efficiencies: Through the efficient use of energy, and proper waste management, ISO 14001:2015 can lead to significant cost reductions.
4. Increased trust from stakeholders: The ISO 14001:2015 certification provides assurance of a business’ legal compliance, and builds trust and confidence of clients and suppliers. The company is also seen as aligning with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
5. Better manage risks: Implementing ISO 14001:2015 helps businesses identify, assess, and manage environmental risks, which in turn, reduces the potential for environmental incidents and enhances long-term resilience.
6. Achieve operational excellence: Integrating environmental management practices into daily operations lead to improved processes, reduced environmental impact, and increased efficiency.
Maclean’s Commitment to Greener Practices
We adhere to the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127), ensuring all our operations meet the standards. With the ISO 14001:2015 certification, Maclean has enhanced operational efficiency while strengthening our position as a responsible leader in the cleaning services industry.
Here are some of the eco-friendly practices we’ve taken:
● Reduce, reuse, recycle: We introduced the 3R programme, including reducing energy, water, and paper consumption, and recycling the aluminium, paper, bottle, and plastic, etc.
● Less paper: We have transitioned to digitalisation, where we reduce paper consumption, including the use of e-forms and e-business cards. This helps to conserve more trees and reduce deforestation.
● Green habits: We encourage our employees to switch off lights, computers, and other electronic devices when not in use, design new workplace to maximise natural light utilisation, 100% energy-saving LED lights, and encourage the use of green solutions.
● Reduce carbon footprint: We designate 3 days per week to work from home. Not only does it save petrol, time and stress on the road, but it also reduces road traffic, greenhouse gas emissions, and the office’s water and energy consumption.
Our leaders’ involvement in the EMS aligns and integrates environmental imperatives into Maclean’s business strategies, ensuring progressive performance not only in profit, but also for our people and planet.
We’re going all in to create a better future for our employees, clients, and communities.
References:
1. Technical Committee ISO/TC 207/SC 1. (2015, September). ISO 14001:2015 Environmental management systems — Requirements with guidance for use.
2. ISO Central Secretariat. (2015). Introduction to ISO 45001.