Chapter 05 · Standards & assuranceConformity Assessment, Certification & Assurance
Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)
Definition
The Eco-Management and Audit Scheme is the European Union's voluntary environmental management instrument, established by Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009 (EMAS III). Registered organisations implement an environmental management system, undergo third-party verification by accredited environmental verifiers, and publish a validated environmental statement reporting performance against core indicators. EMAS builds on and exceeds ISO 14001, adding legal-compliance guarantees, employee involvement and transparent public reporting.
References
scheme scope and requirements
legal basis
This reference provides supporting context for how “Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)” is defined and used.
Overview
What it means
The EU's premium environmental management label: ISO 14001 plus verified public disclosure.
How it is used
Thousands of European organisations and sites hold EMAS registration; registration supports regulatory relief in some member states and credible CSR reporting.
Why it matters
EMAS is the benchmark public scheme linking management systems to verified performance disclosure — a reference point for assurance-based environmental claims.