Internal and external environmental issues

I like to use the SWOT matrix approach.

Internal issues are specific to your organization and they may be Strengths (like strong environmental image among local authorities) or Weaknesses (like equipment performance - it may be old and very pollutant - like employees - it may be difficult to find new workers).

Now imagine that the opposition party wins the next local elections and will increase environmental compliance obligations, that is a risk.

Now imagine that a major equipment may breakdown and contaminate soil and water surfaces, that is a risk.

The prospect of exploring a new, richer ore lode will increase the efficiency of the facility, that is an opportunity

The possibility of restoring the landscape of an abandoned area can improve the company's image among environmental NGOs, that’s an opportunity.

The following material will provide you more information:

• Determining the context of the organization in ISO 14001 -https://advisera.com/14001academy/knowledgebase/determining-the-context-of-the-organization-in-iso-14001/
• How to determine interested parties according to ISO 14001:2015 - https://advisera.com/14001academy/blog/2019/08/27/key-iso-14001-benefits-to-customers/nowledgebase/how-to-determine-interested-parties-according-to-iso-140012015/
• ISO 14001 risks and opportunities vs. environmental aspects - https://advisera.com/14001academy/blog/2016/03/21/how-does-product-life-cycle-influence-environmental-aspects-according-to-iso-140012015/
• Risks and opportunities in ISO 14001:2015 – What they are and why they are important - https://advisera.com/14001academy/blog/2016/03/07/risks-and-opportunities-in-iso-140012015-what-they-are-and-why-they-are-important/
• Enroll for free in the course - ISO 14001:2015 Foundations Course - https://advisera.com/training/iso-14001-internal-auditor-course/
• Book – The ISO 14001:2015 Companion - https://advisera.com/books/the-iso-14001-2015-companion/