Why Develop an EMS.ppt

Why Develop an EMS? EPA Regions 9 10 and The Federal Network for Sustainability 2005 Plan Do Check Act Connecting the Environment and the People An EMS helps each member of the organization understand their role in the environment, and to see how what they do at the facility affects the environment It provides for responsibility, ownership, and accountability of actions and related impacts, Results? People that are more aware, better trained, more motivated, and more enthusiastic. Environmental Issues Facing Government Impacts from site operations Policy implications Compliance concerns Budgetary pressures (enhanced efficiency) Public perception What are some of the drivers for government to adopt EMS principles? The need to improve environmental performance because of: Obligation of environmental stewardship, Public expectations, The “business side” of government, Regulatory compliance issues, Executive orders. Some Specific Drivers Executive order 13148 requires that EMS be implemented at appropriate facilities by end 2005. EO 13148 was continued from prior administration- EMS is here to stay. Management systems approach is consistent with the President’s agenda, and his commitment to sound management of government and environmental stewardship. OMB, in circular A-11 requires line item planning for EMS implementation. Other environmental EOs, Executive Memoranda and agency policies can be supported by EMS. What are some of the roadblocks for government to adopt EMS principles? Changing priorities over time, Political and other non-organizational pressures, Frequent changes in leadership and their goals, Budgets and allocations are not typical of private sector, Finding relevant metrics (administrative vs. Environmental condition or cost), Finding the best element to motivate employees, Lack of familiarity, Concern over “Flavor of the Month”. Benefits of an EMS Facilitates meeting your mission , Improves the environmental condition, Minimizes accidents and p