ISO 14046:2014 Certification
The water footprint with ISO 14046 and have it verified by ITC
We certify with IAB USA accredited standard in accordance with ISO 14064-1:2018 standard.
For many companies, water consumption is one of the focal points of their sustainability strategy and performance. To effectively manage water consumption, comparable and reliable data is necessary. The ISO 14046 standard provides instructions and requirements for determining water footprints and reporting results. Independent verification provides assurance that all figures quoted are accurate and reliable.
ISO 14046 Managing water responsibly
Managing water as a resource will pose major challenges to humanity in the 21st century. In particular, the increasing impact of climate change is affecting the availability of water – a factor that is increasing the pressure on companies to manage water responsibly. With ISO 14046, an international standard is now on the market that makes it possible to precisely determine the water footprint of products, processes, and organizations.
First Step
The first step is to learn about your company, organization, needs and expectations. Once the objectives of the verification, including the applicable standards and specifications, are defined, you will receive a quote for the pre-assessment.
Pre-assessment
During the pre-assessment, for example, the exact nature of the assignment, the scope of application, the objectives and other criteria are clarified. Based on the results, ITC prepares the calculation and plans for the verification of the water footprint. This information is incorporated into a detailed proposal tailored to your company’s individual needs. All relevant deliverables and applicable audit and verification criteria are specified and agreed upon..
Verification and Certification
The assigned verification team checks the respective declaration on the basis of the previously prepared planning, applying the applicable standards and specifications. Among other things, evidence is collected and checked, sites are visited, and estimates and calculations are reconstructed and analyzed.
If necessary, a prior review of documents complements the verification. The verification result, including all findings, is presented to you during the final meeting. If necessary, action plans are agreed upon.
**What is ISO 14046:2014 Certification?**
ISO 14046:2014 is an internationally recognized standard that specifies principles, requirements, and guidelines for assessing and reporting the water footprint of products, processes, and organizations. The certification under this standard ensures that an organization accurately measures and transparently reports the environmental impacts related to water use and pollution throughout the life cycle of a product or the operational processes of an organization.
**Why is ISO 14046:2014 Important?**
As water scarcity and quality become critical global issues, ISO 14046:2014 certification demonstrates an organization’s commitment to sustainable water management. This certification provides a standardized approach for assessing the water footprint, helping organizations identify significant water use impacts and opportunities for improvement. It enhances transparency, supports informed decision-making, and fosters trust among consumers, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
**Key Components of ISO 14046:2014**
1. **Goal and Scope Definition**: Establishing the objectives and boundaries of the water footprint assessment, including the product life cycle stages or organizational processes to be considered.
2. **Life Cycle Inventory Analysis**: Collecting and evaluating data on water inputs, outputs, and pollution associated with the product’s life cycle or organizational processes.
3. **Life Cycle Impact Assessment**: Quantifying the potential environmental impacts related to water use and pollution.
4. **Interpretation and Reporting**: Analyzing results, drawing conclusions, and reporting the findings in a transparent and consistent manner.
**Steps to Achieve ISO 14046:2014 Certification**
1. **Understand the Standard**: Familiarize yourself with the requirements and guidelines of ISO 14046:2014.
2. **Define Goals and Scope**: Clearly define the goals, scope, and boundaries of the water footprint assessment for your product, process, or organization.
3. **Conduct a Life Cycle Inventory**: Gather data on all relevant water inputs, outputs, and pollution throughout the product’s life cycle or organizational processes.
4. **Perform a Life Cycle Impact Assessment**: Calculate the potential environmental impacts associated with water use and pollution.
5. **Interpret and Document Results**: Analyze the results, identify key areas for improvement, and document the findings.
6. **Prepare a Water Footprint Report**: Develop a comprehensive report that meets the requirements of ISO 14046:2014.
7. **Undergo Independent Verification**: Engage an accredited third-party verifier to review and validate the water footprint assessment and report.
8. **Achieve Certification**: Upon successful verification, obtain ISO 14046:2014 certification, demonstrating your commitment to sustainable water management.
**Benefits of ISO 14046:2014 Certification**
– **Environmental Stewardship**: Demonstrate your commitment to reducing the environmental impact of your water use and pollution.
– **Consumer Confidence**: Build trust and credibility with consumers through transparent and verified water footprint claims.
– **Market Differentiation**: Gain a competitive edge by showcasing your dedication to sustainability and responsible water management.
– **Regulatory Compliance**: Ensure alignment with national and international environmental regulations and standards.
– **Operational Improvement**: Identify opportunities for efficiency and cost savings through improved water management practices.
Achieving ISO 14046:2014 certification is a significant step towards responsible water stewardship. It reflects your organization’s proactive approach to minimizing the environmental impacts of water use and pollution, contributing to a more sustainable and water-secure future for all.