Cyclical Methodology to Optimize an Integrated Energy-Environmental Management System towards Sustainability †

Based on a sustainability approach, the synergy between the current most implemented standards for Energy Management Systems (EnMS) ISO 50001:2018 and Environmental Management Systems (EMS) ISO 14001:2015 is addressed in this work to propose a general cyclical methodology for improving organizational comprehensive performance and promoting the transition to renewable energy. Nowadays, organizations are required to establish robust and integrated management systems, responding to intensive competition and complex market dynamics. The combined implementation of these standards is a recent research field, due to the recent arrival of ISO 50001 in 2011. There are already some studies regarding the benefits, drivers, challenges, and barriers that companies face with this integration. Therefore, this paper unprecedentedly explores a divergence coupling approach to propose a methodology framed in the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle, for the promotion of good energy-environmental practices, continuous improvement and sustainability. The main divergences of the standards appear in the planning and operation clauses and are mostly related to ISO 50001 requirements not included in ISO 14001. Thus, through extrapolation the divergences are harmonized to shape the “Plan” and “Do” stages of the methodology. The “Check” and “Act” stages consist of compliance with sustainability principles and feasible courses of action. This proposed approach improves the integrated energy and environmental performance, and increases economic benefits and sustainability in any organization, but especially in fossil fuel-based industry, as in the referenced case study at the Tula refinery. Moreover, the findings presented can be used by standardization bodies and policymakers in accelerating energy transition and sustainable development.