The implementation of an environmental
management system in the not-for-profit sector

White, Gareth; Lomax, Matthew; Parry, Glenn

Abstract

Purpose
This paper examines the implementation of the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) in a non-profit, small to medium sized enterprise (SME) in the UK.
Methodology
A four year Participatory Action Research study is made upon Knowledge Transfer Partnerships between the University of the West of England and the Royal Bath and West Society.
Findings
Through the adoption of EMAS the organisation was able to identify operational improvements as well as make significant efforts to improve its environmental performance, reducing its carbon footprint by 30 tCO₂e per annum and gaining new business.
Research Limitations
The study is made upon a single not for profit organisation in the UK.
Practical Implications
It presents the costs, benefits and challenges that the organisation faced. Techniques that were used to successfully manage the EMS development are also discussed.
The investigation identifies deficiencies in the materials that are provided to support companies that are seeking EMAS certification. To improve the uptake of these environmental management systems and assist companies in their successful pursuit of ISO14001 and EMAS, this supporting documentation requires enhancement.
Originality
There has been relatively little empirical research around the development and benefits of organisational environmental management systems (EMS). Even less has focussed upon the specific constraints and opportunities that face non-profit organisations when implementing EMAS. This paper addresses this gap, identifying its costs and tangible benefits.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2014
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 6, 2019
• Journal: Benchmarking: An International Journal
• Print ISSN: 1463-5771
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 21
• Issue: 4
• Keywords: ISO14001, EMAS, not for profit, environmental management
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/822602
• Publisher URL: http://www.emeraldinsight.com/journals.htm?articleid=17103530