Environmental management system 5030939 218549476 2008-06-11T03:42:56Z 153.111.226.213 /* 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