Friends of the Earth Birmingham Action Briefing Apr/May 98

What is EMAS?

Can we spread the environmental message to industry? This may sound a daunting task. Aren't the interests of environmentalists and big business incompatible you ask. Not so! There are now tangible benefits to be gained by industry in implementing sound environmental practices.

What is EMAS? EMAS has been driven by Europe and includes all the requirements of BS 7750 and ISO 14000 involving good environmental practices. The 5 steps involved in BS 7750 are listed below:

1. Environmental policy.
2. Environmental review.
3. Environmental programme - setting quantifiable targets.
4. Environmental management system.
5. Environmental audit cycle - internal checking of performance results v targets EMAS then requires a further two stages:
6. Publication of an environmental statement - showing progress and performance.
7. Validation - i.e. independent verification.

What are the benefits of EMAS? Invariably those organisations who become EMAS registered claim that in undertaking the disciplines of a thorough review of all relevant processes and procedures the following result:

• Greater efficiency.
• Cost savings.
• Compliance with legislation.
• Market opportunities.
• Increasingly customers will expect their suppliers to have sound environmental policies/
• Improved corporate image.
• Stakeholder satisfaction.

How can you help? We have a 16 minute Department of the Environment video which explains EMAS simply. If you can influence your employer or any other business, to become EMAS registered, please contact me at FOE or on my home tel. no. 01562 710236.

Paul Webb IP & W Campaigner