ISO 14006

ISO 14006 (2020 update) provides guidelines for integrating ecodesign into an Environmental Management System (EMS) based on ISO 14001. It does not add additional requirements to the EMS; rather, it embeds a life-cycle perspective and environmental improvement into the design and development process.

Key elements

• Ecodesign policy aligned with corporate sustainability.
• Planning: analysis of environmental aspects and objectives.
• Implementation and operation: design procedures, preliminary LCA, material and process innovation.
• Checking: KPIs, internal audits, review of ESPR compliance.
• Management review: performance evaluation and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Early compliance with the ESPR Regulation and the Digital Product Passport.
• Average 15% reduction in embodied carbon footprint.
• Improved ESG reputation and access to green finance.

Certification process

1. Gap analysis against ISO 14006.
2. Implementation of procedures and LCA within the design phases.
3. Audit by an accredited certification body.
4. Certification valid for 3 years, with annual surveillance audits.

ISO 14006 is the gateway to structured ecodesign, providing a recognised framework to improve products, reduce environmental impacts, and meet European regulatory requirements.