An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a set of processes and practices that enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency. This site provides information and resources related to an EMS for small businesses and private industry, as well as local, state and federal agencies.

Basic Elements of EMS

• Reviewing the organization’s environmental goals;
• Analyzing its environmental impacts and legal requirements (or compliance obligations);
• Setting environmental objectives and targets to reduce environmental impacts and comply with legal requirements (or compliance obligations);
• Establishing programs to meet these objectives and targets;
• Monitoring and measuring progress in achieving the objectives;
• Ensuring employees’ environmental awareness and competence; and,
• Reviewing progress of the EMS and making improvements.