ABSTRACT
The environmental management benchmark survey should provide a comparative analysis of environmental policies, environmental procedures, staffing and organizational setup, environmental compliance, and environmental release data. These types of environmental management surveys may also be tailored to reflect specific industry concerns and regional or national issues, as determined by client needs. Like the other lines of inquiry in the environmental management assessment process, benchmarking depends on a comprehensive understanding of three key program elements: management effectiveness, technical understanding, and regulatory issues. A technical-oriented approach may be included to supplement, as necessary. Results can be measured based on the Stages of Excellence Model to facilitate the easy understanding and communication of an organization’s environmental goals, current position, and opportunities for improvement. In addition to technical expertise, the benchmarkers must be intimately familiar with the statutory mandates governing today’s environmental management efforts.
