This paper discusses the relationship between IS014000 standard and the sustainable development of the state-owned enterprises. Establishing the environmental management system according to IS014000 standard is an important aspect for the enterprises´ sustainable development,and is of great strategic importance. The benefit from implementing IS014000 standard in the enterprises is obvious. But only a few enterprises have done so. The difficulties existing in these enterprises are analyzed and some suggestions on how to.establish the environmental management system are proposed.