Over the past few months, I have overseen the certification processes for Quality (ISO 9001) and Environment (ISO 14001), gaining a deeper understanding of their connections. What might be a not obvious synergy holds transformative potential.
If, by quality, we mean enhancing efficiency, reducing the waste of resources (be they material, intellectual, or simply time), it becomes obvious that quality and environmental management systems share the same objectives.
Working simultaneously on these two spaces can offer several benefits, as they mutually influence each other in ways that could result in transformative change.
According to ISO principles (International Organization for Standardization), a management system, is a structured approach adopted by an organization to guide its operations and achieve specific objectives.
ISO 9001 focuses on processes and efficiency with customer satisfaction as its gravitational center, while ISO 14001 addresses environmental impacts. Both provide similar frameworks based on:
In practice, when a management system is in place, it contributes to ensuring regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
Numerous business functions are linked to the concept of quality. For instance, those engaged in sales and production must ensure that products or services meet established standards.
Talent management and human resources management are tasked with securing and retaining qualified individuals, while procurement is responsible for maintaining quality conformity and consistency along the entire supply chain.
If we contemplate how to reduce an organization’s environmental impact, we realize that we are likely to engage the same functions for similar reasons.
The principles that form the base of quality management closely align with the core values of Sustainability or ESG values (Environment, Social, and Governance).
From a sustainability perspective, challenges like enhancing energy efficiency and engaging suppliers align with quality management principles. Both systems share a commitment to excellence and positive ESG impact:
As customers increasingly prioritize ESG criteria in supplier qualification and tenders, it highlights the need for businesses to stay focused on delivering value to customers.
Discovering the synergy between quality and environmental management unveils a powerful opportunity for transformative impact. To make the most of this connection, adopting an integrated approach from the start is key.
Here’s the step-by-step guide I followed to initiate such approach:
By following these steps, organizations can lay the groundwork for a coordinated approach.
Embracing an integrated approach to quality and environmental management isn’t just about compliance – it’s a strategy that strikes multiple goals.
By aligning processes with ISO standards (or similar), organizations not only ensure regulatory compliance but also establish certification readiness, elevating recognition and reputation.
Moreover, this approach is scalable, seamlessly integrating with other management systems.
A holistic strategy that not only puts everything in order but also contributes to success and adaptability over time.