What year was ISO 14001 first established?

ISO 14001 was first established in 1996, marking a significant development in environmental management systems (EMS). This standard provides a framework for organizations to manage their environmental responsibilities systematically, helping them improve their environmental performance and comply with regulations. The introduction of ISO 14001 in 1996 reflected a growing recognition of the need for organizations to adopt environmentally responsible practices as part of their overall business strategies. This standard has since been revised to adapt to changing environmental concerns and practices, with subsequent versions released in 2004 and 2015. Understanding the historical context of ISO 14001 is crucial for grasping its importance in promoting sustainable practices across various industries.