eng All rights reserved info:eu-repo/semantics/conferenceProceedings Proceedings of the 4th International EUROSA Conference, May 13-16, 2026, Hotel Vrnjačke terme, Vrnjačka Banja, Serbia startpage: 6 endpage: 14 Perović, Marija 2026 Faculty of Technical Sciences, Novi Sad Global Perspectives on Environmental Management Systems: Evolution and Practical Implications of ISO 14001:2026 https://unilib.phaidrabg.rs/o:10144 ISBN: 978-86-6022-801-9 application/pdf 476512 bytes ISO 14001:2026; environmental management systems; risk-based approach; lifecycle thinking Environmental protection is a constantly evolving process, influenced by technological progress, the introduction of new materials and substances, increasing resource consumption, and the generation of more complex waste streams, often with uncertain long-term behavior and limited recycling options. These developments create new challenges that require organizations to continuously adapt and integrate environmental considerations into their decision-making. ISO 14001 has evolved from a focus on regulatory compliance and pollution control to a more structured, riskbased approach, where organizations are expected not only to meet requirements, but to show measurable results. Developed through the participation of 176 countries, the standard represents a shared global approach to environmental management. This paper analyses the key changes introduced in the latest revision of ISO 14001, with a focus on leadership, risk-based thinking, and system integration in practice. It also examines how these changes influence environmental protection and occupational health and safety through more structured risk management. Particular attention is given to the strengthening of lifecycle thinking and supply chain control, the clearer distinction between normal, abnormal, and emergency conditions, and the enhancement of performance evaluation through objective-based auditing and structured management review. The findings highlight the convergence between environmental management and occupational health and safety, especially in the context of risk assessment and emergency preparedness. The paper contributes by interpreting ISO 14001 as both a reflection of global environmental priorities and a practical framework for integrated, evidencebased management.