EN
In the conditions of increasing environmental threats that arise from overexploitation of the environment and business activity the idea of implementation and functioning of environmental management system (EMS) in enterprises is getting more popular. Taking into account these expectations, as well as the desire to generate profits, companies should use instruments by which they can manage their goals in a sustainable way. The main aim of the article is to present the role and benefits of implementation and functioning EMS compliant with the ISO 14001 standard, EMAS (in force only in EU countries), as well as programs: Cleaner Production and Responsible Care. The Authors focus on EMS scale, problems and meaning for companies functioning in contemporary globalizing world.