The Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek, along with the newly established Center for Diagnostics, Treatment, and Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Diseases in Orahovica, is set to receive the ISO 14001 environmental protection certificate.
The announcement coincided with the final day of the 5th Postgraduate Course "Rehabilitation in Clinical Medicine" in Orahovica, which featured guest professor Tonći Lazibat, PhD, a full professor at the Faculty of Economics in Zagreb and ISO 14001 environmental protection consultant. Professor Lazibat brought the significant news that the Faculty is joining the international ISO 14001 environmental management system.
"All of us are aware of the serious global ecological problems we face today, such as the reduction of ecological potential and global warming. Each individual leaves an environmental footprint, and the concept of sustainable development only began in the 1980s. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) introduced an international standard for environmental protection in the early 1990s, applicable to any organization regardless of its field, as we all impact the environment. This standard is called ISO 14001," explained Professor Lazibat.
He emphasized the importance of the Faculty's attainment of this certification:
"The Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health Osijek and the new Center for Diagnostics, Treatment, and Rehabilitation of Cardiovascular Diseases will be among the first institutions in Croatia to implement this environmental standard. This sends a strong message promoting environmental awareness. The Faculty will benefit significantly, especially in applying for international projects, as it will bear the ISO 14001 mark, which is crucial for demonstrating environmental responsibility and offers a competitive advantage over those without the certification."
Professor Lazibat also highlighted the requirements for obtaining the certification:
"The Faculty had to align with the legal standards of 14001, identifying the most impactful environmental aspect of its operations, primarily the management of infectious and chemical waste and other hazardous materials. Once all processes are aligned, an external auditor will conduct a review. If successful, the Faculty will be granted the 14001 certification, thus being registered in this prestigious international system."
He concluded by noting that the Faculty, under the leadership of Dean Aleksandar Včev, already holds the ISO 9001 certificate, which represents an international standard for quality.
Source: gradonacelnik.hr