Bid to boost voluntary audit scheme

Date: 19/04/01

By Renée Cordes

OVER the past few years, companies have found sound environmental management makes good business sense.

Unfortunately very few have taken an interest in the Union's voluntary Eco-management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) since its implementation in 1995. Many have opted instead for the less stringent ISO 14001 environmental certification or gone it alone.

Although participation in EMAS is voluntary, once signed up firms must comply with the relevant environmental laws, prevent pollution and make improvements in green performance.

After an initial review by independent, accredited authorities, an environmental management system is established. The company must then undergo audits to ensure it meets its objectives.

Once a firm receives the EMAS seal of approval, it may publicise this in its annual report and other literature. Some who have taken this route report they have been able to lower costs, boost corporate image and improve efficiency - but they are in the minority.

At the beginning of March, there were a little more than 3,100 EMAS-registered industrial sites in the EU, with scant interest in countries such as Greece, Luxembourg and Portugal with just one EMAS site apiece. Even in Germany, which tops the list with 2,148 EMAS sites, growth has tapered off.

The European Commission is hoping to reverse this trend with a new, improved EMAS agreed by EU governments and the European Parliament in February.

It is expected to be implemented by the end of this month, and will be open to non-industrial sites such as local governments, hospitals and services such as banks and hotels.

Article forms part of a survey on the environment.