ABSTRACT
The US Environmental Protection Agency Region 10 (Pacific Northwest) in the use of environmental management systems (EMSs) to manage environmental responsibilities and improve overall environmental performance. This chapter presents the key decisions based on the findings regarding the implementation of the EMSs at the facilities visited and discussions with employees at these facilities. An ISO 14001-based EMS can improve environmental performance if a facility makes certain critical commitments. The process of formally identifying aspects and impacts, and establishing and monitoring progress towards goals through an ISO 14001-based EMS, results in improved environmental performance. Top management commitment to a strong EMS instils in all employees a sense of the importance of integrating P2 and continual improvement into operations. Documentation facilitates information exchange on environmental initiatives and informs employees about their individual environmental responsibilities. The process of identifying aspects and impacts, and establishing and monitoring progress towards goals through an ISO 14001-based EMS, results in improved environmental performance.
