CONFRONTING THE INEVITABLE: ISO 14001 IMPLEMENTATION AND THE DURBAN AUTOMOTIVE CLUSTER

Abstract

The aim of the article is to explore the complexities of the ISO 14001 implementation process, with the objective of identifying the barriers to its implementation, the factors that influence these barriers, and finding possible solutions to address these barriers. The theoretical basis of ISO 14001, the implementation process, and its strategic implications were established by reviewing previous research. Based on this theoretical review, a self-administered questionnaire was designed to serve as a measuring instrument for the empirical research conducted among members of the Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC). The specific objectives of the empirical study were: to determine the reasons for seeking ISO 14001 certification, to determine the perceived and experienced barriers to its implementation, and to investigate the strategic implications of an Environmental Management System (EMS) such as ISO 14001. Finally, the findings, recommenda- tions, caveats, and suggestions for further research are summarised.