Market your environmental credentials

By becoming certified to an environmental standard you can demonstrate to customers and other stakeholders that you take the environmental performance of your business seriously.

You may be able to use a logo on packaging and marketing materials to promote the fact that you are certified to an environmental standard.

What is an environmental standard?

An environmental standard sets out an agreed way of managing environmental issues. Many businesses use an environmental management system (EMS) standard such as ISO 14001, while the European Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is an EU scheme that adds verified public reporting.

If you want to build an EMS in stages, consider a phased approach and speak to certification bodies about what recognition is available at each stage. For product carbon footprints, you can use specifications such as PAS 2050 alongside other recognised methods.

Why should my business have an environmental standard?

EMAS requires organisations to produce an environmental report about their performance. You can use this report, which is validated by an accredited verifier, to assure customers, investors and other stakeholders that the information you provide is reliable and has been checked by an accredited third party.

Some organisations, particularly those in the public sector and large businesses, are increasingly using environmental criteria in their tendering process. Being certified to a standard will increase the chance of your business winning these tenders.

If you gain certification to a standard, maximise the publicity by letting the local and trade press know.

For more information on EMS standards, see environmental management systems (EMS) - the basics.