RIT 2009 Symposium Workshop Summary: Using your EMS to Move Toward Sustainability
May 20, 2009 by Brian Butler , and admin | Filed under: Using Your EMS to Move Toward Sustainability [4]
Ms. Blaydes opened the presentation with the premise of does an EMS system lead to sustainability. The answer was yes/no, dependant upon the focus of the organization. Discussion ensued regarding the definition of sustainability; Ms. Blaydes offered the definition: The continuing protection of life support systems and biodiversity; the conservation of natural and energy resources. The group agreed with statements offered that there was an overall confusion and lack of conclusions about the environmental problem. The basis of the confusion can be found in the complex regulatory structure, bad corporate image related to prior acts, public demand for action, and the profit drive of the company.
Ms. Blaydes discussed the development of a “default” type of EMS “a checking of the box” where positive environmental practices are motivated by the legal compliance for risk management. A list of considerations and practices to develop an effective EMS was offered:
Awareness of employees
Management support
Environmental considerations integrated into business planning
Responsibility beyond EHS
Measure the impact to the environment
Seek to control direct and indirect impacts
Investment in the development of human capital.