ABSTRACT
Eco-Management and Audit Scheme was deemed the most appropriate, and began the development of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme for United Kingdom Local Government (LA-EMAS). The LA-EMAS survey is based on local authorities carrying out a self-assessment of their performance, with regard to their implementation of the scheme. Authorities will need to find ways to link their internal environmental management system's performance indicators to wider sustainability monitoring and reporting activities. The LA-EMAS approach has been highlighted by the Commission for the way in which it helps local authorities improve the effectiveness and efficiency of environmental management and protection. LA-EMAS therefore has to be seen as part of a longer-term process aimed at changing the culture and behaviour of an organisation. A more informed realism about the requirements of LA-EMAS has probably resulted in a 'rounding down' of scores.
