Authors : Emmanuel Afeonkhai; Margaret M. Otu

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 8 - August

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yc4w5xn2

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mrxppw6s

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25aug399

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Note : Google Scholar may take 30 to 40 days to display the article.

Abstract : This study examines how ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems (EMS) enhance Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes in Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods approach involving interviews, surveys (n=127), and document analysis across oil and gas, manufacturing, infrastructure, and mining sectors, results show that EMS-certified organisations outperform non-EMS entities in implementing mitigation measures (87% vs. 54%), conducting environmental audits (3.2 vs. 1.1 per year), resolving non-compliance (30 vs. 75 days), and disclosing monitoring results (76% vs. 29%). Case studies, including the NLNG Train 7 Project and Dangote Cement operations, highlight improved environmental performance when EMS principles are integrated into EIA follow-up. Key barriers include certification costs, limited technical capacity, and weak regulatory linkages. The study recommends mandating EMS alignment in EIA approvals, enhancing capacity, and offering incentives to strengthen environmental governance.

Keywords : Environmental Impact Assessment, ISO 14001, Environmental Management Systems, Nigeria, Compliance, Sustainability.

References :

1. Adeleke, B. O., Taiwo, A. M., & Azeez, M. O. (2017). Environmental management practices in the Nigerian oil and gas sector: ISO 14001 adoption and implementation. Journal of Environmental Management, 204, 358–365.
2. Annandale, D., Morrison-Saunders, A., & Bouma, G. (2004). The impact of environmental management systems on project environmental impact assessment and approval processes. Environmental Management, 33(2), 145–153.
3. Bansal, P., & Bogner, W. C. (2002). Deciding on ISO 14001: Economics, institutions, and context. Long Range Planning, 35(3), 269–290.
4. Ebisemiju, F. S. (2021). Environmental Impact Assessment in Nigeria: Current challenges and future directions. Environmental Policy Review, 15(2), 45–60.
5. Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv). (2020). National Environmental Impact Assessment Procedural Guidelines. Abuja: FMEnv.
6. Glasson, J., Therivel, R., & Chadwick, A. (2012). Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment (4th ed.). London: Routledge.
7. Heras-Saizarbitoria, I., Arana, G., & Boiral, O. (2011). Do ISO 14001-certified companies manage their environmental aspects? Journal of Environmental Management, 92(3), 613–620.
8. International Organization for Standardization (ISO). (2015). ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management Systems — Requirements with guidance for use. Geneva: ISO.
9. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
10. Jay, S., Jones, C., Slinn, P., & Wood, C. (2007). Environmental impact assessment: Retrospect and prospect. Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 27(4), 287–300.
11. Morrison-Saunders, A., & Arts, J. (2012). Assessing impact: Handbook of EIA and SEA follow-up. London: Earthscan.
12. Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG). (2019). Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for NLNG Train 7 Project. Bonny Island: Nigeria LNG Limited.
13. Odukoya, A. M. (2020). Uptake and effectiveness of ISO 14001 in Nigeria: Barriers and opportunities. African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology, 14(3), 85–94.
14. Ogunba, O. A. (2004). EIA systems in Nigeria: Evolution, current practice and shortcomings. Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 24(6), 643–660.
15. Ogunkunle, O. C., & Adepegba, D. (2019). The challenges of environmental management systems implementation in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. Environmental Management and Sustainability Journal, 8(1), 12–22.
16. United Nations. (2015). Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. New York: United Nations.
17. Weaver, A., Pope, J., Morrison-Saunders, A., & Lochner, P. (2008). Contributing to sustainability as an environmental impact assessment practitioner. Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 26(2), 91–98.