• An EMS is a framework that assists an organization in achieving its environmental goals through regular review, evaluation, and advancement of its environmental performance.

An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a framework that assists an organization in achieving its environmental goals through regular review, evaluation, and advancement of its environmental performance. The presumption is that this regular review and evaluation will pinpoint opportunities for improving and executing the environmental performance of the organization. The EMS itself does not dictate a level of environmental performance that needs to be attained; each organization’s EMS is customized to its own particular objectives and targets.

Basic EMS

An EMS helps an organization tackle its regulatory demands in a structured and cost-effective way. This approach can help lower the risk of non-compliance and improve health and safety practices for employees and the community. An EMS can also help tackle non-regulated issues, such as energy conservation. It can encourage greater operational control and employee stewardship. Fundamental elements of an EMS include the following:

• Reviewing the organization’s environmental goals;
• Analyzing its environmental impacts and legal requirements (or compliance obligations);
• Establishing environmental objectives and targets to lessen environmental impacts and comply with legal requirements (or compliance obligations);
• Developing programs to meet specified objectives and targets;
• Observing and tracking progress in achieving the objectives;
• Verifying employees’ environmental awareness and competence; and,
• Examining progress of the EMS and making improvements.