Implementing Environmental Management Systems (EMS)

Increasingly companies are recognising that the environment is a management issue and not just a matter of compliance. Environmental Management Systems (EMS) provides a practical framework within which environmental issues can be managed.

Aside from legislative pressures, few companies investigate the potential for using an EMS to realise real fiscal benefits. An effective EMS can dovetail very efficiently with existing quality systems such as ISO 9000/2000, and health and safety systems such as OSHAS 18001.

An EMS can not only ease the legislative burden, but can help drive cost-savings across a variety of functions that might otherwise avoid system control, such as energy management, waste disposal, segregation and recycling, chemical safety, utilities and raw materials management.

An EMS can also be a useful tool when dealing with regulatory issues, such as local nuisance complaints, for example noise, offensive dust or odour, visual impact, etc, and can improve the image that a company projects to local residents, shareholders/stakeholders, regulators, and the media.

Environmental management is recognised as a key requirement; many large companies require their suppliers to have an externally accredited environmental management system, usually ISO 14001: 2004. Insurance and banking institutions actively encourage sound environmental management practice, and the lack of an accredited EMS can actually now be seen as a barrier to business.

Whilst cost is a consideration in deciding on whether to pursue environmental management initiatives, if the system is developed with sound advice and training, then the set-up and training costs can easily be offset very quickly by savings derived from some of the areas previously mentioned.

Johnson Environmental Consultants has a number of recommended training options designed specifically for those businesses actively working towards an improved environmental profile.

 

Johnson Environmental Consultants has a number of recommended training options designed specifically for those businesses actively working towards an improved environmental profile.

Click here for more information on our training options.