Environmental management system
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2008-06-11T03:42:56Z
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/* Operational and Internal */
{{expert-subject|environment}}
The '''Environmental Management System''' (EMS) is part of a management system of an [[organization]] (enterprise, authority, etc.), in which specific competencies, behaviours, procedures and demands for the implementation of an operational [[environmental policy]] of the organization are defined.
==Legislation and standards==
Within the European Union (EU) legislation was introduced to encourage businesses to voluntarily adopt [[ISO 14000]].
Regulation (EC) No 761/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 March 2001, allowed voluntary participation by organisations in a Community eco-management and audit scheme [[Eco-Management and Audit Scheme ]] (EMAS).
The implementation of a robust EMS, which may incorporate ISO 14001, should lead to improved environmental performance, including better and more consistent legal compliance.
The [http://webstore.ansi.org/FindStandards.aspx?Action=displaydept&DeptID=230&Acro=ISO%20&DpName=ISO%20ICS%2013.020%20-%20ISO%2014000%20-%20Environmental%20Management ISO 14000 standards] reflect different aspects of environmental management. The following list outlines the broad coverage of each:
* Environmental Management Systems:
** 14001, 14002, 14004
* Environmental Auditing:
** 19011
* Environmental Labeling:
** 14020, 14021, 14022, 14023, 14024, 14025
* Life Cycle Assessment:
** 14040, 14041, 14042, 14043
==Benefits==
There are a range of benefits associated with operating an effective Environmental Management Systems (EMS):
===Financial===
* Cost savings through the reduction of waste and more efficient use of natural resources (electricity, water, gas and fuels.)
* Avoiding fines and penalties from not meeting environmental legislation by identifying environmental risks and addressing weaknesses.
* Reduction in insurance costs by demonstrating better risk management
===Operational and Internal===
* Improved overall performance and efficiency.
* Able to monitor and reflect (audit) your businesss and see which areas need intervention
===External===
* Better public perception of the organization, leading to improved sales
* Reduction of the impact (e.g. noises, smells, dust) of your activities on the local residents, leading to more community support