The Environmental Management System was awarded its first ISO 14001 certification in 2003. ISO 14001 standards help organizations execute successful environmental management systems that minimize how their operations affect the environment. The ISO is endorsed by Lloyd's Register.

"The ACP is honored and proud that our Environmental Management Division received ISO 14001:2004 recertification for its environmentally conscious practices. This is an independent validation of extensive commitment to sustainable development," said Carlos Vargas, Manager of the ACP Environmental Management Division.

"We remain committed to sustainable development practices and policies," he added.

The Environmental Management Division of the ACP is responsible for the development of policies and environmental programs, the prevention and control of contamination, environmental monitoring of the Canal's Watershed and the management of the Canal's water resource.

As well as being the principal source of water required for vessel transits, the Canal Watershed provides 95% of the drinking water for the inhabitants of the cities of Colon and Panama.

The ACP said that it undertakes all of its construction programs in accordance with world-class environmental standards and principles, and is a signatory of the UN's Global Compact.