NSI Special Bulletin 01/05, dated January 5, 2005, provides guidance on the implementation of the updated BS EN ISO 14001:2004 standard for Environmental Management Systems, which supersedes the 1996 version. It outlines the immediate application of the new standard for EMS Gold applicants and approved companies, detailing a transition period until May 15, 2006, for existing companies to comply fully. The bulletin emphasizes the importance of addressing non-compliances and provides clarifications on various clauses of the standard, including legal requirements, environmental policy, and audit processes, while encouraging organizations to maintain flexibility in achieving compliance.