If your business is focused on managing its environmental impact, you’ve likely encountered both ISO 14001 and Environmental Permit Scheme (EPS) certification. While they sound similar in purpose, they serve different roles — and understanding these differences is crucial for compliance and environmental performance. So, can you do both? Yes — and in many cases, you should.
What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an international standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It helps organisations systematically manage their environmental responsibilities, improve performance, and comply with regulations. Key features include:
- Identifying and controlling environmental aspects and impacts
- Legal compliance tracking
- Setting environmental objectives and targets
- Continuous improvement of environmental performance
It’s voluntary, but increasingly expected by clients, stakeholders, and regulators — especially in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and waste management.
What is EPS Certification?
EPS (Environmental Permit Scheme) certification is a legal requirement in the UK for businesses that carry out activities with potential environmental risks — such as emissions, waste disposal, or water discharges. Administered by the Environment Agency (England), Natural Resources Wales, or SEPA (Scotland), an environmental permit:
- Grants legal permission to operate
- Sets conditions to minimise harm to the environment
- Is specific to your activity, location, and potential impact
Key Differences
| Feature | ISO 14001 | EPS Certification |
| Purpose | Voluntary framework for EMS | Legal requirement for specific activities |
| Issued By | Accredited certification bodies | Government environmental regulator |
| Focus | Continuous improvement, compliance | Risk prevention, pollution control |
| Scope | Organisation-wide | Site-specific, activity-based |
| Enforcement | Market-driven | Legally enforceable |
Can You Have Both?
Yes. In fact, they complement each other.
ISO 14001 helps build a strong internal system to track compliance, reduce risk, and improve sustainability.
EPS ensures your business meets the minimum legal requirements for operating.
Having both shows that your business not only meets legal obligations but also takes proactive steps to go beyond them. ISO 14001 can make it easier to maintain your environmental permit by keeping your compliance documentation, monitoring, and procedures in order.
Why Pursue Both?
Demonstrate leadership – Prove to stakeholders that your business doesn’t just comply but actively manages its impact.
- Streamline compliance – Use ISO 14001 to manage and review the legal requirements of your EPS.
- Avoid fines and shutdowns – Regulatory breaches can be costly. ISO 14001 helps spot issues before they escalate.
- Win tenders and contracts – Many buyers expect environmental management credentials and legal compliance.
Final Thoughts
ISO 14001 and EPS certification serve different purposes, but together they create a strong foundation for environmental responsibility. If your operations fall under the Environmental Permitting Regulations, EPS is non-negotiable. But if you’re serious about improvement, transparency, and stakeholder trust, ISO 14001 is a logical next step.
Yes — you can do both. And if you care about environmental performance, you probably should.
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