Abstract: This project studies the use of environmental management systems (EMS) in the United Kingdom. Environmental management systems are set of standards and guidelines that provide a framework to the companies to improve their environmental practices. The international standards ISO 14001 and EU standards EMAS are the main competitors in the marketplace. The process of developing an EMS requires conformity to environmental and legal aspects. The impact of EMS on the company’s performance is improving the financial sector and public image of that company.
Analysis of the current trends of EMS in the UK and worldwide was carried out to provide a justification of the low uptake. The study was based on the number of certification with respect to population, GDP, ecological footprint and the total number of registered companies. It was found out that Scandinavian countries have the highest level of awareness of the importance of the conservation of environment.
The difference in the uptake between EMAS and ISO 14001 in the UK was highlighted. ISO 14001 is more popular due to its affordable costs and international status. However, EMAS has a better environmental performance as it strictly emphasizes on environmental aspects and requires continual improvement.
The major drivers of EMS are legislation and costumer requirements. Governments exert a great influence on the uptake of EMS. Nevertheless, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) showed lack of awareness of the significance of EMS and absence of customers’ pressure. On the other hand, the major barriers of EMS are the management time and costs of implementation, certification and maintenance.
Keywords: environmental management systems (EMS), company’s performance, financial sector.
Title: The Use of the Environmental Management Systems
Author: Ali AlShehab, Ahmed AlNaimi
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations
ISSN 2348-1218 (print), ISSN 2348-1226 (online)
Vol. 11, Issue 2, April 2023 - June 2023
Page No: 40-71
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 24-May-2023
