Strengthen your organisation’s environmental credentials with our free, downloadable Environmental Policy template. Enter and submit your email address below to download now.
What Is an Environmental Policy?
An Environmental Policy is a formal statement that sets out an organisation’s commitment to protecting the environment and improving sustainability. A well-constructed policy:
- Defines procedures to reduce environmental impact
- Allocates responsibilities for environmental management
- States measurable targets for sustainability performance
- Demonstrates alignment with Irish/EU legislation and international standards
A well-defined Environmental Policy can enable organisations to:
- Reduce energy, waste and carbon emissions
- Ensure compliance with Irish and EU environmental laws and directives
- Build trust and credibility with customers, stakeholders, and regulators
- Support ISO 14001 certification and other integrated management systems
By clarifying environmental commitments and roles, your organisation can proactively contribute to a more sustainable future in Ireland.
Why Environmental Policies Are More Important Than Ever
The escalating effects of climate change, combined with tightening EU and national regulations, make Environmental Policies critical for Irish businesses to remain competitive and compliant.
Key statistics:
- A Central Bank survey of Irish firms found that over 75 % of respondent companies are moderately or very concerned about climate-related risks (both physical and transition) over the next five years. (Source: Central Bank of Ireland – Behind the Data – Beliefs and Barriers Article)
- The newly published National Climate Change Risk Assessment (2025) identifies 115 climate-related risks to Ireland, 43 of which are judged to have “significant” potential impacts, especially for infrastructure, coastal erosion, flooding, and wind damage. (Source: EPA – Press Release 3rd June 2025)
- 81% of Irish businesses report an increased focus on sustainability in the past year, with 74% considering their efforts “established or better.” (Source: EY State of Sustainability 2024 Report)
Without a formal Environmental Policy, organisations in Ireland may face:
- Non-compliance with Irish and EU environmental regulations
- Missed opportunities for cost and resource efficiencies
- Reputational harm among customers, regulators, and the public
- Falling behind competitors in sustainability performance
Ultimate Guide to ISO 14001Find out more about ISO 14001 in our Ultimate Guide to ISO 14001.  |
Why This Matters for ISO Certification
Certification bodies expect organisations to have documented environmental commitments and structured management processes. An Environmental Policy is a foundational requirement for ISO 14001, showing that your organisation takes environmental responsibilities seriously.
Moreover, this policy can plug into broader management systems that integrate quality, environmental, and occupational safety:
Relevant ISO standards this policy supports:
- ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems
Embeds risk-based thinking, which can include environmental risks that could affect product/service delivery. - ISO 45001 – Occupational Health & Safety
Often deployed alongside ISO 14001 for an integrated approach to safety, wellbeing, and sustainability.
Get Started Today
By using our free Environmental Policy template, your organisation can clearly define its environmental commitments, align with Irish and EU regulations, and enhance your reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking business.
Enter and submit your email address below to download your free Environmental Policy template today.
