BIS tightens EMS standards, sets compliance deadline

The BIS has tightened standards for environmental management systems (EMS), internal company systems to minimise impact and improve performance on the environmental front.

Companies across India have five months to implement more stringent guidelines to lessen their environmental impact by developing more transparent policies, establishing sustainability targets, and implementing eco-friendly procedures in their day-to-day operations.

As per a BIS notification, it requires businesses to take measurable steps to reduce their environmental impact and improve performance, with penalties for non-compliance. Based on the IS/ISO 14001 standard, EMS helps companies minimise their environmental impact. New requirements include identifying negative impacts, creating reduction plans, implementing pollution prevention, conducting audits, and taking corrective actions. Operating sustainably offers competitive advantages, and non-compliance may result in penalties.

BIS has mandated all businesses to adopt the new norms by 21 August 2025 nationwide. Companies must track their environmental footprint, minimise wastage, comply with existing environmental norms, and conserve resources.

Although following the standards isn’t mandatory currently, on August 21, frequent inspections, audits, and remedial actions will be crucial in determining whether certification will be granted to guarantee compliance.

Several industries such as textiles, leather, and chemicals will need to undertake measurable steps to their environmental impact. Companies and businesses will have to invest in cleaner tech, improve waste management systems, and train their employees on the new norms.

According to industry experts companies with EMS certification will provide companies with a competitive advantage. It will also improve efficiency by helping businesses use raw materials and energy more efficiently.