An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a set of processes and practices that enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency. This site provides information and resources related to an EMS for small businesses and private industry, as well as local, state and federal agencies.
An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a framework that helps an organization achieve its environmental goals through consistent review, evaluation, and improvement of its environmental performance. The assumption is that this consistent review and evaluation will identify opportunities for improving and implementing the environmental performance of the organization. The EMS itself does not dictate a level of environmental performance that must be achieved; each organization's EMS is tailored to its own individual objectives and targets.
Basic EMS
An EMS helps an organization address its regulatory requirements in a systematic and cost-effective manner. This proactive approach can help reduce the risk of non-compliance and improve health and safety practices for employees and the public. An EMS can also help address non-regulated issues, such as energy conservation, and can promote stronger operational control and employee stewardship. Basic Elements of an EMS include the following:
Reviewing the organization's environmental goals;
Analyzing its environmental impacts and compliance obligations (or legal and other requirements);
Setting environmental objectives and targets to reduce environmental impacts and conform with compliance obligations;
Establishing programs to meet these objectives and targets;
Monitoring and measuring progress in achieving the objectives;
Ensuring employees' environmental awareness and competence; and,
Reviewing progress of the EMS and achieving improvements.
Costs and Benefits of an EMS
Internal
Staff/manager time (represents the bulk of EMS resources expended by most organizations)
Other employee time
External
Potential consulting assistance
Outside training of personnel
Potential Benefits
Improved environmental performance
Enhanced compliance
Pollution prevention
Resource conservation
New customers/markets
Increased efficiency/reduced costs
Enhanced employee morale
Enhanced image with public, regulators, lenders, investors
Employee awareness of environmental issues and responsibilities
