Environmental Policy Guidance

Do you need an environmental policy? The following groups may ask you for an environmental policy: Local authority/government Larger companies Customers Banks/Insurance companies Professional/Trade associations Having a policy can also be a marketing advantage and may help you gain business. What is it? An environmental policy is a clear statement of objectives outlining a company's commitment to minimise its effect on the environment, it demonstrates commitment and provides a starting point for action. The benefits associated with writing an Environmental Policy include:

Assuring customers of commitment to demonstrable environmental management Maintaining good public/community relations Enhancing image and market share Improving cost control Reducing incidents that result in liability Conserving raw materials and energy Sharing environmental solutions Improving industry/government relations.

What is the best format and style for the policy? There is no standard format for writing an Environmental Policy, but the style should reflect your organisations culture. A good starting point is to collect and review examples of policies written by other organisations and select the format and style most appropriate to your own organisation. There are a few basic rules to follow to ensure the policy is clearly written and concise: Keep the statement short if it's longer than a sheet of A4, then it's probably too long The statement is meant for everyone to see so make sure it's easy to read and understand The statement must be realistic, achievable and relevant to your organisation's activities and practices Demonstrate commitment to making the policy work and get the statement signed, dated and endorsed by the owner, MD, Chief Executive or other senior manager.

What statements should the Policy contain? There is no standard content for an Environmental Policy, although policies normally contain the same themes, including those listed below. As a general rule, the policy should contain statements on the following criteria:

A commitment to continuous improvement Recognition of compliance with relevant environmental legislation as a minimum level of performance The education and training of employees in environmental issues and the environmental effects of their activities The monitoring of progress and review of environmental performance on a regular basis (usually annually).

Additional issues relevant to your organisation and which you may wish to address in your Environmental Policy, could include:

Transport Recycling of packaging materials Minimising waste Efficient use of water and energy Use of biodegradable chemicals Use of local and organic produce Minimising use of solvents and lead-based paints Use of timber from sustainable (managed) forests Procedures to minimise noise disturbance to neighbours Phasing out of CFCs and ozone-depleting substances.

If your business is linked closely to key customers through the supply chain obtain a copy of their Environmental Policy, so that your statements can reflect their requirements and needs. Do I need to review the policy and if so. how often? To cheek that your organisation's current activities comply with the Environmental Policy, a review should be undertaken regularly (usually on an annual basis or in the first six months initially). If your organisation's business activities or operations change significantly, the policy may need to be amended.