Implementing continual improvement within an EMS according to ISO 14001 include the following steps:
1. Assessment: Evaluate current environmental performance, identifying areas for enhancement.
2. Setting Improvement Objectives: Establish measurable environmental improvement objectives aligned with organizational goals.
3. Data Collection: Gather data related to environmental aspects and impacts for informed decisions.
4. Analysis: Analyze data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas requiring improvement.
5. Action Plans: Develop strategies, action plans, and initiatives to address identified areas.
6. Implementation: Execute planned actions, monitor progress, and track outcomes.
7. Review: Regularly assess the effectiveness of implemented actions and their impact on environmental performance.
8. Adjustment: Modify strategies based on performance evaluation to drive continuous enhancement.

Examples:
In a manufacturing company, the following steps were performed to manage the whole lifecycle of the improvement:
1. Assessment: The manufacturing company assesses its environmental performance, identifying areas where waste generation and energy consumption can be reduced.
2. Setting Improvement Objectives: The company sets an improvement objective to reduce energy consumption by 15% in the next year.
3. Data Collection: Data on energy consumption is collected across various production processes.
4. Analysis: The company analyzes the data to identify patterns, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement.
5. Action Plans: An action plan is developed, including measures like upgrading equipment for energy efficiency.
6. Implementation: New equipment is installed, and training is provided.
7. Review: The company reviews energy consumption data regularly to measure progress toward the objective.
8. Adjustment: Based on the review, the company refines strategies, explores further efficiency measures, and ensures continuous progress.