Getting Your EMS Started: Policy Statements

EPA Regions 9 & 10 and The Federal Network for Sustainability

Objectives
After this discussion, you should be able to: List the things that should be included in an environmental policy statement Describe the importance of a policy statement Determine if your agency has a policy statement
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Overview
Definition of a policy statement Importance of a policy statement Timing the development of a policy statement Examples of policy statements

Definition
An environmental policy is a statement by an organization of its intentions and principles in relation to its overall environmental performance which provides a framework for action and for the setting of its environmental objectives and targets. (ISO14001)
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ISO 14001 Requirements

In an ISO 14001 conformant EMS, an E. policy statement must:
Be appropriate to the nature, scale and E. impacts of its activities, products or services Be documented, implemented, maintained and communicated to all employees Include a commitment to:
Continual improvement and prevention of pollution Compliance w/ environmental regulations and other requirements to which the organization subscribes

Be available to the public

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ISO 14004 on Environmental Policy

Some other considerations in developing policy: Coordination with other organizational policies safety, quality Specific local or regional conditions Life cycle thinking Involvement and communication with interested parties Work toward sustainable development Use of EMS by suppliers and contractors
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Policy Statement Importance

Demonstrates management commitment Defines framework for EMS
for example, ISO 14001
3rd party registration self-declared

Provides framework for setting objectives and targets

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Timing the Policy Statement

Policy statement may not be first step Review your agencys policy Determine level of awareness of EMS with senior managers Make a case for EMS first

Making a Case for EMS

Identify your facilitys priorities
Mission statements Resource allocation

Determine managements priorities Ground the EMS in those priorities

Improve compliance Reduce cost Enhance mission
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Examples of Policy Statements

Executive Order 13148 DoD USD/ATL Memo - April 5, 2002 EPA EMS Implementation Policy - May 17, 02 USAF Memo - January 5, 2001 Army OASA(I&E) Memo - July 13, 2001 NPS - Memo from Director DoE Notice 450.4 - February 5, 2001
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Statements from Facility Managers

Facility managers represent lowest level of management chain with operational control over EMS aspects Most employees follow the lead of the facility manager, not environmental managers

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Writing the Policy Statement

Make policy statement consistent with EMS framework Appropriate to activities at facility

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Summary
ISO 14001 defines minimum pieces of a policy statement ISO 14004 provides further assistance Policy provides framework for EMS key document Timing of policy statement is important Many agencies already have policy statements but may need changes
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