SpecTips: Specifying Sustainable Manufacturing – The Impact of ISO 14001 Certifications

How ISO 14001 Certified Manufacturing Enhances Product Sustainability and Reduces Environmental Impact

When specifying products, architects and designers may select materials based on their individual environmental benefits, such as recyclability or energy efficiency. However, a product’s environmental impact goes beyond its core attributes; the manufacturing process itself can greatly contribute to pollution, resource depletion, waste, and ultimately, carbon emissions. Products from manufacturers that operate without environmental oversight may carry a higher footprint due to inefficient resource use, poor waste management practices, or non-compliance with environmental regulations. This creates a disconnect between product sustainability and the overall environmental impact—a gap that conscientious specifiers can help bridge.

ISO 14001 certification addresses this challenge by providing an internationally recognized standard for reducing environmental impact throughout the manufacturing process. To achieve ISO 14001 certifications, businesses must meet several requirements, including: developing and implementing an Energy Management Systems (EMS), conducting an environmental impact assessment, setting environmental objectives and targets, and monitoring and measuring environmental performance. By setting up a structured framework for energy management and resource conservation, ISO 14001 helps organizations improve their environmental performance and offers transparency at each stage of production.

While obtaining ISO 14001 certification is voluntary and demands significant time and resources to implement, it is an important marker of commitment to environmental responsibility. When specifiers choose materials from ISO 14001 certified facilities, they support manufacturing practices that prioritize sustainability, helping create a more environmentally responsible supply chain. By specifying these materials, architects can amplify the positive impact of their projects and promote greener production practices across the industry.

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SPECTIP
When specifying roofing membranes, insulation, and adhesives, choose products from a manufacturer that has production facilities which are ISO 14001 certified under PART 1- General – Quality Assurance section of the specification.

This standard means that the manufacturer complies with environmental laws and regulations, promotes sustainable practices, minimizes their environmental footprint, and achieves their environmental objectives. Division 7 Sections for the project’s roofing membrane and insulation are:
- EPDM Membrane Roofing – Section 075323
- TPO Membrane Roofing – Section 075423
- PVC membrane Roofing – Section 075419

Insulation is generally specified in the roofing membrane section but also may be specified in Division 7 under Thermal Insulation in Section 072100.

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For additional information on sustainable attributes and green design standards, check out these resources:

Product Sustainability Reference Guide
Sustainability Resource Page