Environmental Management Systems
Environmental Management Systems (EMS) are implemented in organizations in order to identify, monitor and measure environmental aspects of processes. Organizations who have implemented an EMS have seen increased environmental performance.
We can help you implement an ISO compliant EMS — either by helping you register externally to the international standard ISO 14001; or by implementing a system that meets the requirements but is self-declaring. Either way, McDonald Consulting Group can help you implement the system that works for you.
The ISO 14000 family of standards provides guidance on developing environmental policies within an organization to create an Environmental Management System, or EMS.
ISO 14001 can be implemented as a stand alone management system, or if you have ISO 9001 it can be integrated into the existing system fairly easily.
All sizes and types of organizations can implement the ISO 14001 guidelines to demonstrate commitment to controlling its activities and processes that may effect the environment.
Today more than ever companies are concerned about controlling their processes to be kinder to the environment. Customers make buying decisions based on the company’s environmental reputation. Government regulations are getting stricter to ensure that the environment is protected from unnecessary damage. Employees want to feel good and confident that they are working in an organization that cares about its impact.
The key to success is to ensure that the EMS works as a management tool. When implemented correctly the value will be realized through savings in energy costs, more efficient use of materials, and possibly in legal compliance costs. Working with an experienced consultant from the McDonald Consulting Group will help you identify the particular value that can be achieved in your company.
Benefits of EMS
The Benefits of an EMS
Setting up and running an environmental management system (EMS) can provide significant benefits across a number of areas of your business.
Running an effective EMS will help you with:
- better regulatory compliance – running an EMS will help ensure your legal responsibilities are met and more easily managed on a day-to-day basis
- more effective use of resources – you will have policies and procedures in place that help you manage waste and resources more effectively and reduce costs
- marketing – running an EMS will help you prove your business’ credentials as an environmentally aware operation that has made a commitment to continual environmental improvement
- finance – you may find it easier to raise investment from banks and other financial institutions, which are increasingly keen to see businesses controlling their environmental impact
- increased sales opportunities – large businesses and government departments may only deal with businesses that have an EMS
- lighter regulation – even if an EMS is not a regulatory requirement, by showing your commitment to environmental management, you may benefit through reduced fees and charges from environmental regulators
Do we need an EMS?
Do We Need an EMS?
Does our business impact the environment?
All businesses that use energy and water, make or receive shipments, buys raw materials, or produces waste has an impact on the environment.
Will we need to hire additional staff to run our EMS?
An EMS can be managed by your existing employees. Once the standard is communicated and understood, and your policies and procedures are in place or modified to adhere to your EMS, the controls needed to maintain the system can be worked into existing operations.
We don’t have the time to implement an EMS.
Environmental legislation and requirements are going to get stricter and stricter. Making the effort now will save you time and money down the road. Additionally, your company will save money through improved efficiencies that will pay off now.
How much money can we save by implementing an EMS?
It’s typically possible to save 10 – 15 percent through lower utility bills and reduction in waste disposal.
EMS Standards & Certifications
Standards and EMS Certification
Gaining external certification of your EMS can give your business credibility with customers and stakeholders. This can help you sell more effectively, particularly to government and environmentally aware customers.
You can self-certify your EMS, but many customers and suppliers require external certification before they will recognize it. External certification also offers your stakeholders reassurance as they can be sure that the information you provide has been independently checked and verified.
Choosing an EMS Consultant
Choosing an EMS Consultant
Before you start, you should have a fair understanding of what you need the consultant to help you do. Do you need help getting started, or will you require ongoing support.
- What are the consultant’s qualifications?
- Do they have experience working with organizations similar to yours?
- Can they provide references from other clients?
- Will the consultant be able to provide training to your staff?
- Will you be assigned to a single consultant, or will the project be shared?
- Understand the fees upfront and how the consultant will be paid.
Are you ready to get started? Contact The McDonald Group today to find out about our consultants and the flexible consulting options we have available.