scope:

This International Standard provides guidance for all organizations, but particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, on the phased development, implementation, maintenance and improvement of an environmental management system. It also includes advice on: - the integration and use of environmental performance evaluation techniques, and - the integration of such a management system with other management systems, where appropriate. The guidelines in this International Standard are applicable to any organization regardless of its level of development, the nature of the activities undertaken or the location at which they occur. This standard should not be used for interpretation of ISO 14001.