An environmental policy is a written statement outlining your company's mission and driving force behind the objectives, targets and management programme of your EMS.
The policy:
- States the company's aims and objectives and forms the basis for its EMS.
- Should be endorsed and actively supported by senior management and accepted by all staff.
- Allows management to communicate its aims and objectives to employees and other interested parties, including shareholders, customers and suppliers.
- Should be part of the business strategy.
Writing an environmental policy is a voluntary undertaking in the UK, and the structure and content are not regulated under UK legislation. For companies intending to obtain certification to a formal EMS, including ISO14001 and EMAS, the environmental policy is a vital document for implementation.