Background--Introduction--Benefits of ISO certfication--Application and scope--The major ISO 14000 subdivisions and technical committees--General steps to achieve certifications--Initial Environmental Elements/Components Needed--Environmental policy--organization and personnel issues--Environmental aspects, effects and impacts--Requirements imposed by others/regulations--Environmental objectives and targets--Environmental Management Programs and Operational Control Procedures--Procurement and vendor controls--Process, equipment and chemical approval and tracking--Emergency procedures--Audits, reviews and verifications--Data collection and handling--Records and document control--External communication--Design for environmental and life-cycle analysis--Minimizing discharges to air, water bodies and sewers--Management of nonhazardous materials and wastes--Site closure procedures--Conclusion