James Gibb, Acorn Auditor, AJA Registrars
Environmental Management System
An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a formal system which enables organisations to control and improve their environmental performance and ensure we comply with environmental legislation. Environmental Management Systems are based on the Deming Cycle of Continual Improvement and are similar to systems used for health, safety and quality management.
What is the University doing?
The University of Exeter is currently implementing an (EMS) for Campus Services. We are following the Institute of Environmental, Management and Assessment (IEMA) Acorn scheme which is based on the British Standard BS8555. This scheme breaks down the implementation process into 6 discreet phases. On completion of Phase 6, the EMS will be certified to ISO14001.
The University has completed phases 1, 2 and 3 to date and work is underway to complete phases 4 in July 2011. You can download our current certificate or view our registration online. Once the system has been implemented in Campus Services it will be rolled out across the University to other services and colleges.
What are the benefits of implementing an EMS?
Once established, an EMS should identify areas where efficiency can be improved and savings made. Tangible benefits and financial savings can be achieved in waste management, energy consumption, transportation, packaging and materials use. The other major benefits are:
- improved compliance with environmental legislation
- regulator assurance
- reduced insurance risks
- reduced environmental risk
- demonstration of environmental commitment to stakeholders, such as HEFCE
- support funding bids and invitations to tender
- demonstration of green credentials to attract staff , students and business customers
- enhanced environmental awareness within the University community
- opportunities for research and student projects
