Environmental Management Systems

Environmental management systems and environmental reports -
Taken from the Environment Agency (Netrags) website:

Environmental management systems (EMS) and environmental reports can improve your business's environmental performance and deliver significant benefits.

Large organisations often require suppliers and contractors to prove that they comply with environmental legislation. You can use EMS and environmental reports to show that you comply.
In this guideline:

• What is an environmental management system?
  

  An environmental management system (EMS) is a structured and documented system you can use to manage your business’s environmental performance and responsibilities. An EMS can be used by businesses of all sizes.

  Benefits of having an EMS

  An EMS can benefit your business in many ways. For example an EMS could help you:

  • minimise your environmental liabilities
  • maximise the efficient use of resources and make your business more efficient
  • reduce your waste
  • demonstrate a good corporate image
  • build awareness of environmental issues among your employees.

  Key elements of an EMS

  To implement an EMS there a number of things you must do. For example, you need to:

  • produce an environmental policy
  • identify and monitor your environmental impacts, eg through environmental auditing
  • set measurable targets to continually improve your environmental performance
  • review your EMS regularly
  • keep environmental records and reports
  • provide environmental awareness training for your staff.
  
  
• What is an environmental report?
  

  An environmental report includes information on how you manage your business’s environmental performance. You may produce environmental reports for internal management purposes, or for external publication.

  You may choose to publish environmental information in:

  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reports
  • Corporate Responsibility (CR) reports
  • company annual reports
  • sustainability reports
  • stand-alone environmental reports.
• Why should you report on your environmental performance?
  

  An environmental report will increase awareness of your current performance levels, both amongst staff and customers. It can reduce your business risks for the future, as environmental factors are becoming ever more important.

  Having an environmental management system (EMS) is not a legal requirement for businesses. However, EMSs and environmental reporting can make it easier for your business to comply with environmental legislation.

• Further information on environmental management systems and environmental reports

Some examples of Environmental Management systems Suppliers and Accreditors.

Green Tourism Business Scheme
The GTBS is the leading sustainable tourism certification scheme in the UK, with over 1400 members.  Businesses opting to join are assessed by a qualified grading advisor against a rigorous set of criteria, covering a range of areas, like energy and water efficiency, waste management, biodiversity and more.

Cumbria Business Environment Network
Your local Cumbrian based network offering free environmental advice, audits and awards to help businesses from all scetors.

Greener Living
Tips and advice on all aspects of living greener to include home, work, shopping, environment.