What does Clause 5.2 of the Standard require an organization to have?

Clause 5.2 of the Standard specifically addresses the need for an organization to establish and maintain an Environmental Policy. This policy serves as a foundation for the environmental management system (EMS) and outlines the organization’s commitments to prevent pollution, comply with applicable legal requirements, and continually improve its environmental performance. Having an Environmental Policy is essential as it guides the organization in setting objectives and targets, ensuring that everyone involved understands the organization’s intentions and commitments regarding environmental stewardship.

An effective Environmental Policy reflects the organization’s aspirations and underlines its role in fostering sustainable practices. It is crucial for communicating the organization's environmental goals both internally among employees and externally to stakeholders. This emphasis on a structured approach helps in aligning the organization’s operations with global environmental standards and initiatives, which is vital for compliance and enhanced corporate responsibility.