Block-4 - Environmental Standards

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ignou MEV-003

THE PEOPLE'S
UNIVERSITY Environmental Law
Indira Gandhi National Open University
School of Interdisciplinary and and Management
Trans-disciplinary Studies

ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS 4
MEV-003
Environmental Law
Indira Gandhi National Open University and Management
School of Interdisciplinary and
Trans-disciplinary Studies

Block

4
ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS
UNIT 1
Environmental Design 5
UNIT 2
Environmental Management System Standards 22
UNIT 3
EMS Standards ISO 14000 38
UNIT 4
Environmental Labeling 58
PROGRAMME DESIGN AND EXPERT COMMITTEE
Dr. (Ms.) Shyamala Mani Dr. Rachna Agarwal Dr. Sushmitha Baskar Dr. Deeksha Dave
Professor, National Institute of School of Vocational Education Environmental Studies Environmental Studies, School
Urban Affairs (NIUA) India Habitat and Training, Indira Gandhi School of Interdisciplinary and of Interdisciplinary and Trans-
Centre New Delhi National Open University, Trans-disciplinary Studies disciplinary Studies,
New Delhi Indira Gandhi National Open Indira Gandhi National Open
Prof. R. Baskar University, New Delhi University, New Delhi
Department of Environmental Prof. Daizy R Batish
Science & Engineering, Guru Department of Botany, Panjab Prof. Ruchika Kuba Dr. Shubhangi Vaidya
Jambheshwar University of University, Chandigarh School of Health Sciences, Indira School of Interdisciplinary and
Science & Technology, Hisar Gandhi National Open University, Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira
Haryana Prof. M. Krishnan New Delhi Gandhi National Open University
Vice Chancellor, Madurai Kamraj New Delhi
Prof. H.J. Shiva Prasad University, Madurai, Tamil Nadu Prof. Nandini Sinha Kapur
Professor of Civil Engineering School of Interdisciplinary and Dr. Y.S.C. Khuman
College of Technology, G.B. Pant Dr. Chirashree Ghosh Trans-disciplinary Studies, School of Interdisciplinary and
University of Agriculture & Technology Department of Environmental Indira Gandhi National Open Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira
Pant Nagar, Uttarakhand Studies, University of Delhi, University, New Delhi Gandhi National Open University
New Delhi New Delhi
Dr. T.K. Joshi Dr. Shachi Shah
Director, Occupational & Mr. Ravi Agarwal Environmental Studies, Dr. Sadananda Sahoo
Environmental Programme, Centre Director, Toxic Link, Jangpura School of Interdisciplinary and School of Interdisciplinary and
for Occupational & Environmental Extension, New Delhi Trans-disciplinary Studies Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira
Health, Maulana Azad Medical Indira Gandhi National Open Gandhi National Open University
Prof. Jaswant Sokhi New Delhi
College, New Delhi School of Sciences, Indira Gandhi University, New Delhi
Prof. Nilima Srivastava National Open University, Dr. V. Venkat Ramanan
School of Gender and Development New Delhi Environmental Studies
Studies, Indira Gandhi National Dr. B. Rupini School of Interdisciplinary and
Open University, New Delhi Environmental Studies, School Trans-disciplinary Studies
of Interdisciplinary and Trans- Indira Gandhi National Open
Prof. S.K. Yadav University, New Delhi
School of Agriculture disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi
Indira Gandhi National Open National Open University,
University, New Delhi New Delhi

BLOCK PREPARATION TEAM


Unit 1 Unit 2 Unit 3 Unit 4
Dr. Anoop Yadav Dr. Hardeep Rai Sharma Dr. P. Hariprasad Dr. Bhupinder Singh,
Central University of Dept of Environmental Sciences, Centre for Rural Development, BPS Mahila Vishwavidyalaya,
Haryana,Mahendergarh, Haryana Kurukshetra University, Indian Institute of Technology, Sonepat, Haryana
Kurukshetra, Haryana Hauz Khas New Delhi

PROGRAMME COORDINATORS
Dr. B. Rupini Dr. Sushmitha Baskar Prof. Ruchika Kuba
Environmental Studies, School of Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies, School of School of Health Sciences,
and Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi Interdisciplinary and Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi National Open
National Open University, New Delhi Indira Gandhi National Open University, University, New Delhi
New Delhi

COURSE COORDINATOR CONTENT EDITORS


Dr. V. Venkat Ramanan Dr. Gauri Chakraborty, Amity School of Media and Communication, Amity
Environmental Studies, School of University, Noida
Interdisciplinary and Trans-disciplinary Prof. Ruchika Kuba, School of Health Sciences, Indira Gandhi National Open
Studies , Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
University, New Delhi Dr. B. Rupini, Environmental Studies, School of Interdisciplinary and Trans-
disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
Dr. Sushmitha Baskar,Environmental Studies, School of Interdisciplinary and
Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi

FORMAT EDITORS
Dr. B. Rupini Dr. Sushmitha Baskar
Environmental Studies, School of Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies, School of Interdisciplinary and Trans-
and Trans-disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi disciplinary Studies, Indira Gandhi National Open University,
National Open University, New Delhi New Delhi

Secretarial/Technical Assistance: Ms. Sonali, SOITS, IGNOU, New Delhi; Mr. Vikram, SOITS, IGNOU, New Delhi

PRINT PRODUCTION
Mr. S. Burman Mr. Y. N. Sharma Mr. Sudhir
Deputy Registrar (P), IGNOU, New Delhi Asst. Registrar (P), IGNOU, New Delhi Section Officer (P) IGNOU, New Delhi
February, 2019
 Indira Gandhi National Open University, 2019
ISBN: 987-93-88498-
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Copyright holder.
Further information on the IGNOU courses may be obtained from the University’s office at Maidan Garhi, New Delhi or the official website of IGNOU
at www.ignou.ac.in
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Printed at:
BLOCK 4 INTRODUCTION
Block 4 deals with environmental standards. This block comprises of 4 units-
environmental design, Environmental Management System, EMS standards ISO
14000, and environmental labeling.
Unit 1 deals with Environmental design which is not a new phenomena it has
been part of our ancient architecture. A key aspect of eco-friendly and economic
sustainability ease and environmental design which consists of a systematic
consideration of environmental performance and potential environmental impacts
at the earliest stages of product design and development. It covers all the stages
of a project or product lifetime that includes procuring raw material, manufacturing,
packaging, distribution, installation, operation and finally the useful product
lifetime.
Unit 2 deals with Environmental Management System. All organizations like
companies, industries, institutions have impact on environment. Environmental
Management System is a tool to manage quality and safety, it assesses an
organization’s business strengths and weaknesses that help to make out and
manage significant environmental impacts by saving money and resources.
It explains core elements of Environmental Management System (EMS), its
policy and implementation and operation techniques. The certification body of
EMS was discussed about ISO 14001, EMAS, BS8555 standards. It
highlighted the assessment of EMS by explaining characteristics of the operations
like tract performance and conformance with environmental goals, calibration
techniques, calibration devices and compliance with applicable regulations.
Unit 3 deals with EMS standards ISO 14000. It explained the occupational
health and safety assessment series 18001 compatible with ISO 9001 quality
and ISO 14001 environment management standards. This unit broadly covers
ISO, ISO 14000 and EMS. It explained Plan- Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle.
It provided the information about ISO family standards, benefits of implementing
ISO 14001 and finally integrated management system.
Unit 4 deals with Environmental labeling. This unit highlighted the different issues
related to issuing of eco-labels to a product, their objectives, origin and
classification. The environmental labels (Eco-labels) are based on the environmental
performance of a product on the environment. There are three major
components of environmental labeling which provides unbiased involvement of
third party is necessary during certification, that should be voluntary/ financial
firms and finally the labeling can be positive or negative. ISO is an autonomous
body which works to achieve different goals for effective implementation of eco-
labeling. The concept of eco-labeling is based on environmental concert of
a product it is awarded by an independent body to a manufacturer or service
provider on the basis of their environmental impacts by using lifecycle assessment
tool. The objectives are based on efficient use of non-renewable resources;
management of resources; handling and management of chemicals, adopting the
principle of reduce, reuse and recycle strategy and finally promoting natural
resource conservation. This unit also elaborated environmental labels developed
by ISO. This unit concluded by explaining the concepts of green claims, eco-
mark and the mechanism of SCHEME.
Environmental Standards

4
UNIT 1 ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
Structure
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Objectives
1.2 Definition and Scope
1.3 Principles and Benefits
1.3.1 Principles of Environmental Design
1.3.2 Benefits of Environmental Design

1.4 Environmental design for Buildings


1.5 Concept of Green Buildings
1.5.1 Objectives of Green Buildings
1.5.2 Elements of Green Buildings
1.5.3 Example of Green Buildings in India
1.5.4 Rating system for Green Buildings

1.6 Green Infrastructure


1.7 Green Construction Materials
1.8 Green Landscaping
1.8.1 Principles of Green Landscaping

1.9 Let Us Sum Up


1.10 Key Words
1.11 References and Suggested Further Readings
1.12 Answers to Check Your Progress

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Environmental design is not a new word; it has been part of our ancient
architecture. If we deeply observe, engineering challenges were answered
with delicate design intelligence in our ancient structures. Environmental design
means an integrated approach to technologically feasible and economically
viable way of design. An environmental design is a way to create human spaces,
which are beneficial for both community and natural environment and achieve
a sustainable and eco-friendly result.
A key aspect of eco-friendly and economic sustainability is an environmental
design consists of a systematic consideration of environmental performance
and potential environmental impacts at the earliest stages of product design
and development. Environmental design considers various effects on the
environment at all the stages of a project or product lifetime, including raw
materials acquisition, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, installation,
operation, and ultimate fate at the end of the useful product lifetime.
Environmental design concentrates on the entire cycle of manufacturing
products and providing services. Hence, environmental design is much more 5
Environmental Standards effective and economic than more primitive pollution measures. Environmental
designis composed of two broad fields; the first field of environmental design
is ‘design for sustainability’, which focuses on conservation of resources
through minimizing the uses of energy, mineral, material and water, and also
aims to preserve natural capital. The second area is ‘design for health and
safety’ of occupants. Here the main focus is to reduce risks from toxic and
harmful substances, pollutants, and waste as well as concerns related to public
health and safety.
In environmental designing, both commercial and residential structures are
built using environmentally friendly material. Environmental design involves
professionals (environmental designers) in the fields of urban planning,
landscape architecture, who assist and guide in the development of right
infrastructure. These professionals focus on the use of environmentally sensitive
techniques and materials. Their main focus is to study the relationship between
man-made structures and the surrounding environment to develop optimum
infrastructure, including commercial and residential buildings by taking into
account functional, economic and ecological needs.

1.1 OBJECTIVES
After finishing this unit, the student will be able to:
 define environmental design;
 explain the basic principles and benefits of environmental design;
 discuss the objectives and potential of environmental design (ED); and
 explain the concept of green building, green infrastructure and green
landscaping in deep.

1.2 DEFINITION AND SCOPE


Environmental design is a process which concentrates on creating structurally
sound buildings for commercial and residential purposes that are not only
functional but environmentally responsible as well. Main fields in
environmental design are urban planning, architecture, geography, landscape
architecture and interior design.
Earlier, environmental design comprised of an interdisciplinary area focused
on historical conservation and lighting design. Presently, the term has expanded
and extended to apply to larger scope involving ecological and sustainability
issues. Environmental design does not mean a single or particular approach. It
involves interdisciplinary areas such as architecture, urban planning and
landscape design, and emphasis on the relationship of built infrastructure, urban
landscapes and natural surroundings. Environmental designers construct
buildings, landscapes and open civic spaces to be functional, be aesthetically
pleasurable to users and to promote community developmentwithout harming
natural environment.
The scope of each project that emphasizes environmental design includes
thefollowing parameters:
6  Collection, processing and management of solid wastes,
Environmental Design
 Environmental impact assessment (EIA)and its alleviation,
 Water supply,
 Air pollution,biodiversity and soil conservation, and
 Treatment of wastewater

1.3 PRINCIPLES AND BENEFITS


Dear learners, let us now read about principles and benefits in the following
sentences:
1.3.1 Principles of Environmental Design
Principle-1 Energy conservation
The prime aim of environmental design is reduction in operational energy
consumption from the built infrastructure and focuses on the reduction in carbon
emission and cost savings.This can be achieved by following the energy
hierarchy, which is one of the most effective ways to reduce the energy related
environmental impacts of buildings. The designer should follow and include
the energy hierarchy in the building design (Fig. 1). Energy conservation should
be kept in mind while designing new building and renovating old buildings.
Step 1- Reduction in energy demand
Here the main aim of the designers is to reduce the demand of energy in
the new buildings. In any building, energy is needed for lighting, heating,
cooling and cooking. Energy requirement can be reduced by selecting
energy efficient devices, insulation of building, the use of insulated pipes
and ducts, natural ventilation, use of daylight and passive design.
a. Step 2- Energy efficiency
During the designing of energy efficient building various energy efficiency
services, appliances/equipment and controls should be used in the building.
This can be achieved by adopting following approaches such as the use of
high efficiency lighting system (LED lamps) and goods.
b. Step 3- Use of renewable and low/zero carbon emission technologies
The energy requirement in buildings should be fulfilled from on-site
renewable sources. Low or zero carbon emission technologies should be
incorporated to provide as much energy as is technically and economically
feasible sources. This includes considering rooftop solar water heaters,
solar PV panels, wind energy, biomass energy etc.
c. Step 4 – Purchase green energy
The building will fulfill its remaining energy needs by purchasing Green
Energy Tariff (electricity generated from renewable energy sources off-
site). These steps would be beneficial for the growth and development of
new large-scale renewable energy generation and infrastructure. A green
energy tariff works by the supplier promising to match all or some of the
electricity with renewable energy, which it then feeds back into the National
Grid. As more people sign up to a green energy tariff, the bigger the
percentage of green energy in the national supply. 7
Environmental Standards

Fig. 1.1: Energy hierarchy of environmental design.

Principle 2- Building Materials


In the construction of a building with environment design, various materials
are required in different quantity. Usually, products made from natural,
renewable materials and products with recycled content are used. Use of eco-
friendly building materials in construction reduce environmental impacts and
life cycle impacts and are economic on a long term basis. Earlier stages of the
material life cycle, such as extraction, processing, manufacturing and
transportation to site should also be considered, because these stages may
cause significant impacts on the environment. Other environmental impacts
of materials such as over-utilization of resources, forest cutting, rise in climate
change, environment pollution etc., should also be kept in mind. So it is
necessary to take steps to reduce the life cycle impacts of building materials in
any construction.
Principle 3-Water Consumption and Drainage
Reduction in water intake should be practiced through various water
conservation measures in buildings. Water conservation should be cost effective
and use of alternate water sources also be practiced in the building. Utilization
of sustainable drainage measures must be used to reduce surface water run-off
and flood risk. This can be achieved by various methods, i.e. by installing
water efficient technologies to promote the use of rainwater and recycled water.
Sustainable urban drainage systems such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting
and permeable paving should be adopted in building to reduce water runoff.
Principle 4-Biodiversity
The designer should focus on enhancing biodiversity and encouraging its profits
for occupants and local communities. They are responsible for the protection
of biodiversity and to recognize chances for enhancement. This can be attained
by confirming that all natural habitats are protected during construction of
structures. During the construction work opportunities should be recognized
on the project site to recover biodiversity. This can be attained by including
green roofs, green walls, boxes for birds, planting trees or the inclusion of
8 water bodies. Further, other opportunities can be recognized to include emergent
spaces as part of new projects.
Principle 5-Minimize Travel Impacts Environmental Design

The designers should keep an eye on the impact associated with the travel
arrangements for workforces, occupants and locals. Planning should be done
to reduce the impacts of travel by encouraging the use of efficient modes of
transport that decrease environmental impact, reduce congestion and air
pollution.
Principle 6-Waste Management
The designer should focus on employing the waste hierarchy (refuse, reduce,
reuse, recycle and dispose). Various methods should be used in design to reduce
the quantity of waste generated during different stages of construction.
Principle 7- Pollution Control
Provisions for the prevention of pollution should be proposed and applied to
the project. This can be achieved by reducing local discharges to air, land and
water. It can be done by modifying building materials, proper drainage system,
use of non-toxic materials, and use of green energy at site for different activities
and by reducing transportation. This is particularly important during
construction and refurbishment activities on a project. All designers must obey
with the overall practice for health, safety and the environment.

1.3.2 Benefits of Environmental Design


Environment design is the need of the day considering the negative impact
caused on the natural environment in the post industrialization period of human
history. The benefits of environmental design are the following:
 Environmental design provides more business, by promising a healthy
environment with sustainable design.
 Use of environmental design can create a unique and beautiful appearance
too.
 The basic concepts of environmental design can enable reduction of
environmental impact of a product during the process by optimizing the
usage of raw materials and energy, management of wastes, and prevention
of pollution in the future.
 It is an economically viable design, which meets the consumers need by
reaching their expectations in terms of reasonable price, steady
performance and quality of the product.
Check Your Progress 1
Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the
unit.
1) What do you understand by Environmental design?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................. 9
Environmental Standards
2) What is a Green Energy Tariff?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
3) What are the benefits of Environmental design?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

1.4 ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN FOR BUILDINGS


Environmental design of buildings involves adopting techniques that ensure
that the structure is designed, built, renovated, operated or reused in a sustainable
and resource efficient manner. Environmental building design is also called
green building design or eco construction or green construction. Initially the
construction and design of green building may cost much more than a
conventional building. Nevertheless, due to the least operating cost of
environmentally designed building the overall cost comes down in the future.
The green building practice applies a project life-cycle cost analysis for
calculating the suitable upfront budget. This analytical method calculates costs
over the useful life of the asset. It is necessary to take the help of professionals
during the design and construction phase of building to reduce the expenditure.

1.5 CONCEPT OF GREEN BUILDINGS


Worldwide, the construction industry consumes a huge amount of renewable
and nonrenewable resources (energy, water and raw materials) and generates a
large amount of wastes (solid as well as liquid) and greenhouse gases. This
has resulted in an increase in overall awareness about the importance of
sustainability in the construction industry. Consequently, the demand for
sustainable and green building concept is gaining importance in various
countries past years. To date much of the emphasis in green building
development has been on optimizing energy and resource efficiency. A green
building, usually refers to a building that utilizes less water and energy, generates
fewer wastes, effectively uses natural resources and provides healthier space
for inhabitants than a conventional building (Fig. 2). They must also support
the comfort and well-being of their occupants.

1.5.1 Objectives of Green Buildings


Green buildings are designed to reduce the overall impact of the built
environment on human health and the natural environment in several ways.
The main objectives of green buildings are as follows:
 To minimize the use of resources, maximize the reuse of materials,
promotion of recycling and utilization of renewable resources in buildings,
 To reduce impact on the environment,
10
 To enhance the use of efficient building material and construction practices, Environmental Design

 Provide a comfortable, healthy and hygienic indoor environment for


occupants, and
 To encourage the reduction of waste generation and efficient waste
management practice, thereby decreasing pollution, and minimizing
environmental degradation.

Fig. 1.2: Potential of green buildings in reduction of resource use and


waste

1.5.2 Elements of Green Buildings


There are five most important elements of green building (Fig. 3). These
elements should be considered while designing any new green building.
 Smart Design (structure efficiency)
Design has the biggest impact on cost and performance of a building. Its
main intentions are to minimize the total environmental impact associated
with all life- cycles of buildings.
 Energy Efficiency
For energy efficiency, the main strategy is to reduce the operating energy
use in the building. Use of renewable energy such as solar power, wind
power, hydro power and biomass can significantly reduce the
environmental impact of a building. Use of energy efficient tools and
technology is also a solution.
 Eco Materials
For a suitable green building the building construction materials should
be natural, renewable, recycled or recyclable and eco-friendly. Examples
are timber from forest, renewable plant materials like bamboo and straw
and other products that are non-toxic, reusable, recycled, etc.
 Water Conservation
Decreasing water consumption and shielding water quality are the key
objectives of green building. The use of non-sewage and greywater for 11
Environmental Standards
on- site use such as site-irrigation and watering plants will minimize
demands on the local aquifer.
 Waste and Toxic Reduction
The quantity of waste can be reduced by recycling and reusing the
resources.

Fig. 1.3: Elements of green building

1.5.3 Examples of Green Buildings in India

Example 1: Suzlon One Earth, Pune


Suzlon One Earth’s office building is designed in a unique manner by
Pune based architect, Christopher Charles. The building is one of the
biggest green building projects (about 10 acres in area) in India. This is
the first building in the country, which has received LEED (Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design) certificate and has also received
‘Platinum’ rating in 2010. All the energy requirement of the building is
fulfilled by on-site and off-site renewable sources. About 7% of total energy
requirement of the building is generated by on-site 18 hybrid wind turbines
and the remaining energy need is derived from off-site renewable energy
sources.Further, the building is designed in a manner to utilize maximum
sunlight and to reduce the use of energy consumption for lighting. Green
practices such as rainwater harvesting systems, green areas, establishment
of water permeable spaces, are used in the campus infrastructure to reduce
storm water runoff and ground water recharge.
Example 2: Shapath V, Ahmedabad
Shapath V is 20000sq yards of land area developed by Savvy Infrastructures
Ltd., Ahmedabad. It is the first LEED certifiedand ‘gold’ rated green
building in Gujarat assessed by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).
The developer has used energy conservation technologies such as high
roof height, double glazed windows and central air conditioning with
chilled water supply.For water conservation, the building adopted several
steps such as rainwater harvesting system, water recycling, on-site
12
Environmental Design
wastewater treatment plant etc. The building is also designed to reduce
the carbon dioxide level produced in the building. The other major features
of the building are multi-level parking, waste management, and use of
eco-friendly, recyclable, recycled and renewable materials.

1.5.4 Rating System for Green Buildings


A building is really green or not, is defined on the basis of predefined rating
systems set by various agencies. The rating system is mostly voluntary systems
that have evolved over the past more than 20 years. These rating systems are
developed on the basis of green materials and technologies used presently.
Worldwide, large numbers of rating tools have evolved in a numerous nations
that are likely to stimulate market and consumer interest in green buildings. A
wide range of rating systems, have evolved in different parts of the world
based on local climates and geographical conditions (Table 1). The key objective
of these rating systems is to facilitate a general approach to make eco-friendly
buildings, through architectural design, effective handling of waste, water and
energy efficiency, and focus on occupant comfort and health.
Table 1.1: Widely used Green Building rating agencies and systems in world
S.no. Rating agency/system Country

1. India Green Building Council India


2. Green Rating for Integrated Habitat
Assessment (GRIHA)
3. Leadership in Energy & Environmental
Design-India (LEED-India)

4. World Green Building Council (WGBC) USA


5. The Green Globe Rating System
6. Energy Star
7. Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design
(LEED-USA)

8. Green Globes USA and Canada

9. Green Star Australia


10. Australia Greenhouse Building Rating (AGBR)

11. Building Research Environment Assessment


Method Consultancy (BREEAM) United Kingdom
12. Ecology, Energy Saving, Waste Reduction
and Health (EEWH) (Taiwan) Taiwan
13. Building Environment Assessment Method-
Hong Kong (HK-BEAM) Hong Kong
14. Comprehensive Assessment System for
Building Environment Efficiency (CASBEE) Japan 13
Environmental Standards
15. Thai’s Rating of Energy and Environmental
Sustainability (TREES) Thailand
16. Green Mark Singapore
17. Green Building Council (Korea) South Korea
18. European Environment Agency Rating Europe
19. Philippine Green Building Council Philippine
20. Leadership in Energy & Environmental
Design-Canada (LEED-Canada) Canada
21. Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design-
Brazil (LEED- Brazil) Brazil
22. German Sustainable Building Certiûcate
(GSBC) Germany

1.6 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE


There are several definitions of green infrastructure are available in books,
articles, research papers and websites. Different authors and practitioners focus
on different scope/components as per their interest. The broad scope definition
is presented by the Countryside Agency (2006) “Green infrastructure comprises
the provision of planned networks of linked multifunctional green spaces that
contribute to protecting natural habitats and biodiversity, enable response to
climate change and other biosphere changes, enable more sustainable and
healthy lifestyles, enhance urban live ability and wellbeing, improve the
accessibility of key recreational and green assets, support the urban and rural
economy and assist in the better long-term planning and management of green
spaces and corridors”. In simple words, green infrastructure is an effective,
economic, smart and multi-purpose approach solution of present needs, which
enhances the safety and quality of public life. The keyconstituents of this
approach includemanagement of storm water, climate adaptation, reduced heat-
stress, biodiversity conservation, enhancement in ecosystem health, sustainable
energy production, clean water supply and improve soil quality. Besides these,
it also involves other human centric functions such as increased quality of
life through recreation and providing shade and shelter in and around rural
and urban areas.Green infrastructure also helps to deliver an ecological
framework for social, economic and environmental health of the surrounding.
Green infrastructure mainly focused on nature-based solutions to improve
infrastructure, by maintaining healthy ecosystems through the connectivity of
fragmented natural areas and restore damaged habitats. It is a multi-approach
concept, which may be used on different levels, from a small scale on individual
house or building level and to a broader landscape level. Rainwater harvesting
systems, green roofs, establishment of rain gardens, infiltration planters,
permeable roadways/footpaths, trees and tree boxes are the some examples of
local level green infrastructure practices. On a large scale, the preservation
and restoration of natural landscapes (such as forests, floodplains and wetlands)
are critical components of green infrastructure.
One of the major principles of green infrastructure is the formation of connective
networks that allow migration and movement (ecological, economic or social)
14
by connecting a number of supporting systems. Biodiversity is also a core
element; therefore the levels of biodiversity should be maintained and Environmental Design
safeguarded in the development of green infrastructure. The main benefits of
green infrastructure are given in table 2.
Table 1.2: Different benefits achieved by adopting Green Infrastructure
Benefits Types

Environmental/  Provision of clean water supply


Ecological benefits
 Reduction in air and water pollutants
 Rainwater retention and ground water recharge
 Control of soil erosion
 Improvement in soil/land quality
 Increased in pest control
 Enhancement in pollination
 Improved habitats for wild flora and fauna
 Habitat connectivity
 Landscape permeability
 Improve watershed health

Social benefits  Provide a good and healthy environment to live


and work
 Creation of green jobs
 Increase in recreation spaces which enhance
tourism
 More attractive and greener cities

Economic  Diversification of local economy


 Reduce hard infrastructure construction costs
 Reduce energy consumption and costs
 Maintain aging infrastructure
 Increase in property values
 Increase life cycle cost savings

Other benefits  Climate resiliency


 Efficient land use
 Carbon storage and sequestration
 Alleviation in urban heat island effects
 Prevention of disasters such as forest fires, floods
etc. 15
Environmental Standards
1.7 GREEN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Construction of buildings and structures are responsible for impacts on the
environment in different ways, such as consuming natural resources, energy,
affecting biodiversity and environment pollution. The green building includes
numerous approaches during design, construction and operation of a building
project. If we are going to construct a green building,it can be achieved by
using “green building materials”. The green construction materials are
environmentally responsible materials as compared to usual construction
materials and have a lesser environmental impact.
Preferably these green materials should not have any negative impact on the
environment and should be infinitely reusable or recyclable. However, in real
situations it is hard to find such material. But materials, which can eliminate
or reduce the negative impact,can be considered as green building materials.
Few examples of green construction materials are bamboo, recycled plastic,
fly ash mixed cement and bricks, wood, wood bricks, recycled polyester, low
VOC Paint and finishes, recycled glass, soybean fabric, organic cotton, recycled
steel, stones, clay, etc. Green building materials should have at least one or
more following environment and /or health traits.
 It should encourage indoor air quality of the building.
 It should be free from harmful substances such as toxic metals,
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Hydrochloroflurocarbons (HCFCs), ozone
depleting substances (ODSs), Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and
other pollutants.
 It should incorporate recycled content (post-consumer and/or post-
industrial).
 It should be recyclable or have been recycled from existing or demolished
buildings.
 Renewable resources should be used in formation of material.
 Material should be strong and need lesser care.
 It should be obtained from local resources and manufacturers.
 It should have low embodied energy.
 It should be biodegradable in nature.
Green construction can significantly reduce the environmental impacts of a
new building by observing the complete life cycle of building materials. So it
is necessary to consider the life cycle of building materials before construction.
The life-cycle of a building material can be considered to have five stages:
 mining/extraction
 manufacture
 construction
 use
16  demolition
In most of the cases, the major environmental impacts occur due to the first Environmental Design
two stages (mining/extraction and manufacturing). The most factors to
determine the impact on the environment includes loss of biodiversity, pollution
of air, water and land. The consumption of energy for the production of
construction material is also an important indicator of its impact on the
environment. However, waste generation is a key concern of the last stage of
the material cycle due to its proper disposal related issues.
Five main elements for assessing and choosing green construction materials
are based on these factors:
1. Environmental factors
2. Local materials and transport requirement
3. Needs of occupants of houses
4. Need for suitable building design for marketing
5. Need for financial viability/affordability

1.8 GREEN LANDSCAPING


Landscaping is a method of physical modification of the landscape to serve
the needs of the public. Conventionally, the main focus of landscaping was on
making maximum human functionality and aesthetics of open areas by using
plants, modifying the shapes of the land and building facilities such as pedestrian
walkways, paths and picnic/resting areas. But recently a new method of
landscaping has emerged commonly called Green landscaping. This new
method design, creates, and maintains landscape in such a way, that it saves
time, money, and energy. It is functional, aesthetically pleasing, low
maintenance, cost effective, and environmentally sound landscape. So,
green landscaping is a method to plan, create and maintain an aesthetically
pleasing and environmentlly friendly landscape, without using harmful
materials, unsustainable techniques and toxic chemicals. Green landscaping is
efficiently a way of designing and conserving outdoor gardens and public spaces
in such a way as to:
 Minimize destruction to the natural environment;
 Maximize the ecological function of the landscape (to supply ecosystem
goods and services);
 Save time and money with lower maintenance requirements;
 Create a healthier and safer places for people to live, work and play.

1.8.1 Principles of Green Landscaping


Green landscaping can be achieved by using a variety of methods, these basic
elements that are extremely useful. Each of these elements will help in
maintaining green landscaping.
1. Design with Nature for People
a. Maintain a balance between environmental, human and economic
necessities.
17
Environmental Standards
b. Design to blend the landscape into the local natural surroundings.
c. Use design which requires minimum maintenance
d. Avoid altering existing natural habitats and ecosystems
2. Plant Selection
a. Plants are the key part to the “green” portion of green landscaping.
b. Use local plant species, because local or native plants are naturally
adapted to the local climate.
c. To avoid monoculture, use a variety of plant species.
d. Avoid using exotic invasive species
3. Water Responsibly
a. Use of permeable pavers increases infiltration and reduce rainwater
run-off.
b. Water grass occasionally in summers as it is naturally programmed
to go into dormancy.
c. Use of xeriscaping (drought-tolerant landscaping) is also helpful in
water conservation.
d. Use organic materials in garden beds and around trees to conserve
soil moisture.
e. Include rainwater harvesting systems in the design and use that water
for plant needs.
f. Also include grey water recycling systems where appropriate.
g. Change in watering methods or process to save water (timing of water,
amount of water, water to a particular part of the plant, use of
sprinklers, drip irrigation etc.)
h. Left some shallow depression, where runoff is directed.
4. Reduce Chemicals and Pollutants
a. Reducing the use of chemicals in green landscaping will be beneficial
for the environment and wildlife.
b. Instead of chemicals, add manure or compost to improve the quality
of soils.
c. Use organic waste of lawn for composting and to reduce disposal
cost
d. Do not use polluted water to irrigate your landscape; it will add
pollutants to your garden.
e. Trim your lawn less frequently to preserve soil moisture and maintain
healthy root structure.
f. Promote the use of manual tools as compare to power driven
18 equipment’s.
5. Green Energy/products Environmental Design

a. Use renewable energy for street / landscape lighting (Solar PV cells,


wind energy).
b. Use energy efficient or low energy consuming devices (LED for street
lights).
c. Use eco-labeled or green certified products
d. Use recycled and recyclable materials
Check Your Progress 2
Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the
unit.
1) Write a note on two more green buildings and describe their features.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
2) What is “green infrastructure,” how it is beneficial for the environment?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
3) Enlist various properties that are needed in a green construction material.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

1.9 LET US SUM UP


Now we are aware with the term ‘Environment Design’, its scope, principles
and benefits. Environmental design is a plan to utilize land and natural resources
in a sustainable way for the growth and development of rural, urban and
suburban communities. The main principles of environmental design are energy,
water and resource conservation, use of sustainable materials, waste
management and pollution control. This unit also focuses on the concept of
green buildings, objectives of green building and various elements that should
be considered during designing of a green building. Examples of green buildings
are also discussed with their green features to illustrate the concepts. A rating
system for green buildings is also mentioned in brief with a detail of globally
present rating systems. Green infrastructure is an economic, smart and multi-
purpose healthy approach for managing urban and climatic challenges by
building with nature. Its main constituents include storm water management,
climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, enhancement in ecosystem
health, sustainable energy production, clean-water supply and improve soil 19
Environmental Standards
quality. The concept of green building can be achieved by using green building
materials, these construction materials are environmentally responsible
materials as compared to general construction materials. The chapter also
provides guidelines and principles for the designing and maintaining green
landscaping.

1.10 KEY WORDS


Biodiversity : The relative abundance and variety of plant and animal
species within a given ecosystem, biome or for the
entire Earth.
Environment : It can simply define as one’s surroundings (biotic and
abiotic environment) that include everything around
the organism.
Ecology : Ecology is a branch of science which deals with the
interrelationships between the biotic (living) and
abiotic (nonliving) components of an ecosystem as well
as the relationship of the individuals of biotic
components.
Habitat : It is concerned with a physical space occupied by an
organism.
Runoff : That part of rainfall or irrigation water that runs off
the land into streams or other surface water.
Urban Heat : Sometimes cities or towns are typically warmer
Island Effect compared to their adjacent rural areas due to human
activities. This temperature difference is due to the
uncommon state known as the urban heat island.

1.11 REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED FURTHER


READINGS
1. Green Building Fundamentals. Mike Montoya, 2011.
2. Green building materials. Ross Spiegel, 1999.
3. Countryside Agency. Countryside In and Around Towns: The Green
Infrastructure of Yorkshire and the Humber. Countryside Agency, Leeds
2006.
4. https://www.mmu.ac.uk/environment/ems/environmental-design-
principles-for-tenders.pdf
5. https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/benefits-green-infrastructure
6. Sustainable Construction: Green Building Design and Delivery. Charles
J. Kibert, 2005
7. http://www.grihaindia.org/Green Building A to Z: Understanding the
Language of Green Building. Jerry Yudelson, 2007
20
8. Handbook of Green Building Design and Construction: LEED, BREEAM, Environmental Design
and Green Globes. Kubba Sam, 2012

1.12 ANSWERS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS


Answers to Check Your Progress 1
YourAnswer should include the following points:
1) To find answer read section 1.2 of this unit
Answers to Check Your Progress 2
YourAnswers should include the following points:
1) CII-Sohrabji Godrej Green Business Centre and The ITC Maurya.
2) The definition is given in section 1.7 of this unit and some benefits are reduction
in air and water pollutants, rainwater retention and ground water recharge,
control of soil erosion and improve in soil quality, improved habitats for wildlife,
habitat connectivity, landscape permeability, etc.
3) This answer will require your interest in section 1.8.

21
Environmental Standards
UNIT 2 ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
STANDARDS
Structure
2.0 Introduction
2.1 Objectives
2.2 Core Elements of Environmental Management System (EMS)
2.2.1 Prerequisite Factors for EMS

2.3 Benefits and Limitations of EMS


2.4 Certification Body
2.5 Assessment of EMS
2.6 Documentation of EMS
2.7 EMS Standard: ISO 14000 Series
2.8 Let Us Sum Up
2.9 Key Words
2.10 References and Suggested Readings
2.11 Answers to Check Your Progress

2.0 INTRODUCTION
All organisations like companies, big and small institutions, industries etc. have some
impact on environment. Environmental Management System (EMS) is similar to
other management systems, like as those that manage quality or safety. It assesses
an organization’s business strengths and weaknesses, helps them to make out and
manage significant environmental impacts, saves moneyand resources byincreasing
efficiency, ensures compliance with environmental laws and provides targets for
improvements. As per United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA,
2017), an EMS is a set of processes and practices that facilitate an organization to
reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency. It is a
framework that helps a company/organization to achieve its environmental objectives
throughregular review, evaluation, andimprovementof itsenvironmentalperformance.
Regular planning, implementing, reviewing and improving the processes and actions
in EMS will identifyopportunities for improvingand implementing the environmental
performance of the organization. Bygetting EMS certification, the organization can
showto itscustomers about the commitmentin meetingenvironmentalresponsibilities.
EMS does not dictate to achieve a particular level of environmental performance
rather each organization’s EMS is tailored or customised to its own individual
objectives and targets. Ideally, an EMS supports resource sustainability, environmental
protection, biodiversity conservation and ecologically sustainable development.
A properly designed EMS should follow the “Plan Do CheckAct” cycle which is
22 based on the principle of continuous improvement where:
 Planning involves identifying environmental aspects and establishing aims. Environmental Management
System Standards
 Implementing (Do) includes training and operational controls.
 Checking incorporates monitoring and corrective measures.
 Reviewing (Act) includes regular progress review and action to incorporate
required changes in the EMS.

2.1 OBJECTIVES
After studying this unit you should be able to:
 define environmental management system;
 describe core elements of EMS;
 explain EMS assessment; and
 compare benefits and limitations of EMS.

2.2 CORE ELEMENTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL


MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
There is no single approach which can be considered the best for the
development and implementation of EMS, since it depends on the nature, extent
and types of activities, products and services within the company. The core
(principal) common elements of EMS are:
 Environmental Policy: It is the guiding principle of an EMS. In simple
words, it is a statement of an organization’s commitment to improve its
environmental performance. An environmental policy is a written
statement outlining organisation’s mission in relation to managing the
environmental impacts of its operations. The policy is the driving force
behind the objectives, targets and management programme of company
EMS.
There is no perfect way or rules to design a policy document - it will depend
on type, needs and process in a company and the particular needs of that
company. However, there are some key elements which one must consider and
include during policy formation like:
a) Commitment to continual improvement of organization environmental
performance
b) Outline of the legislation organization for complaince and plan of action
c) Expectations from employees within the policy
d) Implementation of the policy, its management and review
The EMS policy should:
 state the organisation’s aims and objectives
 endorse and be actively supported by senior management
 accepted by staff.
23
Environmental Standards  allow management to communicate its aims and objectives to employees and
other interested parties, including shareholders, customers and suppliers.
 should be a part of the business strategy.
For organisations intending to implement a formal EMS including ISO 14001 and
Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), the environmental policy is a
mandatory document providing a cornerstone in the system’s development and
implementation.
The written policy needs to:
1) be specific to organisation and its environmental impacts.
2) only address issues relevant to company’s business activities.
 Planning: EMS planning involves:
a) Developing a plan to fulfill Environmental Policy
b) Identifying environmental aspects and impacts
c) Identifying regulatoryand other requirements (including legal requirements of
particular state or country
d) Developing objectives and targets
e) Developing environmental programs
f) To identify environmental aspects a company may select different activities,
services, and products.
The aspects that are associated with activities, services and products of a company/
organization/enterprise and must give consideration are:-
 extraction and distribution of natural resources and raw materials;
 manufacturing processes;
 design and development;
 packaging and transportation;
 environmental performance and practices of suppliers;
 supply, use and end-life of products;
 waste management and wildlife and biodiversity.
Activities/services/products included in identification of environmental aspects and
impacts can be:-
 air emissions,
 waste and waste water releases to water and land,
 natural resources and raw material utilization,
 energy use, energy emitted in the form of heat,
 radiations etc. by products and physical aspects (appearance, size, shape and
colour).
24
Environmental Management
Legal and regulatory requirements subscribes by a company comprises of local/ System Standards
departmental/ regional/state//national and international requirements e.g.
agreement with public authorities, customers, community groups and NGO’s;
voluntary environmental labelling, trade associations rules, public commitments
and company requirements.
To achieve specific level of environmental performance a company should
establish objectives and targets. These objectives and targets (both short and
long term) must be clear, quantifiable, and consistent with the environmental
policy of an organization. Environmental objectives are the overall aims that a
company will improve itself through EMS, for example, to reduce electricity
consumption by 25 % over the next five years. On the other hand, environmental
target is the short term goal to achieve environmental objective. For example,
to reduce electricity consumption by 10% in first year is a short term goal
leading to the environemntal objective. There can be several targets of an
objective, for example, to achieve 25% electricity consumption reduction in
five years the company can set the target to reduce electricity consumption by
10% in first year, make a policy to change incandescent lights with LED ones,
to increase boiler/heater/thermal efficiency, computer control of the heating
system, shift to new raw material or shift to new energy renewable source.
 Implementation and Operation: To implement EMS successfully in an
organization needs:
a) Framework of the activities and assigning responsibilities to the
organizations members/employees, administration and top level
management. The management shall ensure the availability of different
resources required for the successful implementation and operation of
EMS. The different types of resources required could be skilled man power,
technology, finance and infrastructure.
b) Arranging proper training, creating awareness and competence among
the people enrolled
c) Proper communication between each level of participants. Internal
communication can be established among the different levels and functions
within the organization and external communication can be established
with external related and interested organizations.
d) Documentation of every point starting from responsibilities to challenges
observed and control mechanisms to achieve EMS. The documents
required for EMS can be “controlled” which means that documents and
records must be approved, reviewed, updated, and legible.
e) Operational control where various processes related to environmental
objectives and policy must be performed under specific circumstances,
operating criteria with proper maintained procedures.
f) Emergency preparedness and response should be done, implemented and
maintained by the company in order to avoid any emergency situation/
accidents. Emergency plan consisting of clear and visible labelling of exit/
evacuation routes, fire extinguishers, fire/gas leakage alarms, contact
details of medical aid, clean-up services, fire department must be done
and maintained at proper places in the organization.
25
Environmental Standards
 Integration of Environmental Concerns: The integration of environmental
management into regular operations means the preparation of course of action
for incorporating environmental measures into other operational aspects such
as purchasing, research and development, product development and
acquisitions, marketing, finance, protection of workers etc., in the case of
companies and the health and safety and community welfare in case of a local
government.
 Checking: Checking is done to know organization progress to achieve
environmental goals of EMS through monitoring and assessment, keeping
records, and auditing. It also includes corrective and preventive action
taken by the organization. Monitoring and measurement includes
assessment of current environmental performance, identify root causes of
any problems (if any), point to areas that need corrective action, and
ultimately improve performance and increase efficiency in a company.
Once the key operations and activities, that could have potential significant
impact on environment are identified, one must:
a) maintain procedures to track key characteristics of these operations.
b) track performance and conformance with environmental goals.
c) calibrate and maintain any monitoring tools and equipment.
d) formally review compliance with applicable rule and regulations and other
requirements.
 Management Review: Any change of raw material, process, product, or
services and their potential environmental impacts should be reviewed
properly. Management involvement is important to the success of an EMS.
The management review allows senior management to consider the
effectiveness of the EMS and any changes necessary. It is a formal
evaluation of the status and adequacy of the organisation’s environmental
policy, systems and procedures in relation to environmental issues,
regulations, changing circumstances and continual improvement.
Additionally, management needs to focus how resources are being utilized
and where additional resources are required.
The management review should cover:
a) Environmental performance and progress in achieving objectives and
targets.
b) Compliance (in agreement) with legislation.
c) Results of internal audits and reports.
d) Status on actions required in connection with non-compliances.
e) New processes and any changes to known environmental issues.
f) Any changes in operating requirements, technology, organization
legislation, third-party requirements such as customers, suppliers,
stakeholders and regulators or in response to complaints.
g) Effectiveness of training.
26 h) Need for any revisions to environmental policy, objectives and targets.
i) Follow-up actions from previous management reviews. Environmental Management
System Standards
j) Recommendations for improvement.
The review process can take a period of time with different elements being
reviewed independently. Reviews should include audit outcomes, evaluation
of reaching objectives and targets, evaluation of appropriateness of the EMS
and concerns from interested parties. Management review meetings should be
attended by those having executive or specialist responsibilities, site director
or most senior manager, the management representative and line managers
with defined responsibilities.

1.2.1 Prerequisite Factors for EMS


The three components necessary to start an EMS are:
i) Raise Awareness of Management: Management commitment is a crucial
pre-requisite for a successful EMS. The commitment comes after
management is well informed about the costs and benefits of implementing
an EMS.
ii) EMS Team Appointment: Appointment of an EMS team reflects
management’s support and commitment to provide resources. EMS team
members should include expertise in different fields such as facility
operations, maintenance, risk management, manufacturing, human
resources, engineering, finance, and quality control. Members should be
dedicated employees, who are genuinely interested in the EMS, and open
to implementing change.
iii) Create an Environmental Policy: Creation of an environmental policy
is essential as a guide for EMS facility. The policy must be simple so that
all employees can understand it, but enough inclusive to cover proper
components. An EMS environmental policy must contain at least the three
commitments to promote pollution prevention, comply with relevant
environmental laws and regulations and focus on continual improvement.
According to Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (2014) some
of the examples of EMS environmental policy could be:
“We will prevent pollution at the source. When waste cannot be avoided, we
are committed to recycling, treatment and disposal in ways that minimize
undesirable effects on air, water and land.”
Or
“We will train our employees to be environmentally responsible at work and
at home and will also communicate our commitment to environmental
stewardship to our vendors, customers, and surrounding communities – and
solicit their input in meeting our environmental goals.”
Or
“We pledge to reduce our use of toxic substances and to minimize the generation
of hazardous wastes whenever feasible.”
Or
“Our industry is committed to producing products and services with the least
possible impact on the environment. We plan to do this by implementing 27
Environmental Standards
pollution prevention, complying with relevant environmental laws and
regulations, and seeking ways to continually improve our business practices
so that we minimize our impact on the environment.”

2.3 BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS OF EMS


An EMS ensures that an organisation knows its environmental risks and
manages them in a systematic manner. The benefits of implementing EMS
are:
a) Better Regulatory Compliance: running implementing an EMS will helps
in ensuring that environmental legal responsibilities are met and managed
more easily on a day-to-day basis.
b) More Effective Use of Resources: EMS policies and procedures help
the organization in more effective management of waste and resources
and reduce costs. Waste reduction can save the organization money by
reducing labour costs (to handle and dispose wastes) and waste control
equipments/techniques and increases potential liability of the company.
c) Marketing: Running an EMS will prove company business’ credentials
as an environmentally aware operation that shows company commitment
towards continual environmental improvement.
d) Finance: It become easier to raise investment from banks and other funding
institutions which are interested to see businesses controlling their
environmental impacts. Further, a company can make tangible savings
through low-cost housekeeping measures systematically implemented
through the adoption of an EMS can reduce costs for energy, fuel, water,
raw materials, wastewater treatment, and waste disposal.
e) Increased Sales/Trade Opportunities: Many reputed and branded
companies/businesses and government departments may deal only with
those businesses having an EMS, thereby providing more opportunities
for trade. Some environmental conscious customers will prefer to buy the
products of those brands having either less environmental impacts or
showed their commitments towards environmental conservation. Eco
labels of recycling, having ISO 14000 tag, and self declaration by the
company are some of the means by which customers knows company
commitment for environment.
f) Lighter Regulation: even though EMS is not a regulatory requirement,
but by showing commitment to environmental management, an
organization may benefit through less frequent site visits or reduced fees
from environmental regulators.
g) Pollution Prevention: Improved environmental performance helps in
resource conservation and reduces different emissions in the environment.
h) Risk and Liability Control: Reducing or eliminating pollution incidents
through design and implementation of effective controls helps in reducing
risks and liabilities in a company. This may increase the attractiveness of
the organization as a low-risk investment.
i) Changes in Environmental Attitudes and Awareness: Internal
28 communication on environmental performance and training has a positive
effect on employee motivation and build the organization’s reputation as a good Environmental Management
System Standards
employer, with positive impacts on human resources management and quality.
Continual improvement commitment in environmental performance conveys a
strong message to important external stakeholders, such as local authorities,
regulators, and the local community, that the companyuses good practices and
is a good corporate citizen.
j) Other Benefits: EMS enhances employee morale and its image with public,
policy makers, lenders, and investors. In short EMS improves the reliability
and credibility of an organization environmental policy.
Limitations of EMS
An EMS is a tool that works when an organization puts time and effort into its
implementation. Simply establishing an EMS does not guarantee better
performance. Further, having an ISO-14001 certification does not prove that a
company’s environmental performance is good.
Check Your Progress 1
Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the
unit.
1. Mention the qualities of a well designed EMS?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
2. Name the core elements of EMS.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
3. Mention the three components necessary to start an EMS.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
4. Write the main benefits of having EMS in a company.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
5. Name the three basic commitments of an EMS environmental policy.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
29
Environmental Standards
6. Mention the different resources required for the successful implementation and
operation of EMS.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

2.4 CERTIFICATION BODY


It is not a legal requirement to get EMS independently certified but it can be good
and advantageous for an organization if the company gets an EMS certification.
Having an externally certified EMS reflects seriousness of a company’s towards
environmental performance and it can be a powerful marketing and sales tool. There
are a number of environmental standards mentioned below to which a company can
get EMS certification.
A. ISO 14001: ISO 14001 is the internationally recognised standard for EMS.
Having ISO 14001 can provide suppliers and customers with high-profile
and respected assurance that they are managing their environmental
responsibilities. As per National Accreditation Board for Certification
Bodies (NABCB, 2017), New Delhi there is eight certification bodies
(Table 1) allowed to issue certificates for both ISO 14001:2004 and ISO
14001:2015 in India.
Table 1: Name of EMS certification companies in India
Sr. No. Name and place Validity up to
1 TUV SUD South Asia Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru
and Gurugram April, 2018
2 International Certifications Services Pvt. Ltd.,
Mumbai August, 2018
3 DNV GL Business Assurance India Pvt. Ltd.,
Mumbai June, 2020
4 Vexil Business Process Services Pvt. Ltd.,
New Delhi June, 2020
5 Integrated Quality Certification Pvt. Ltd.,
Bengaluru September, 2020
6 Bureau of Indian Standards, New Delhi March, 2021
7 IRCLASS Systems and Solutions Private
Limited (Operating certification services
through its Division Indian Register Quality
Systems), Mumbai April, 2021
8 Bureau Veritas (India) Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai April, 2021
Source: NABCB, 2017, http://www.qcin.org/nabcb/accreditation/reg_bod_ems.php

There are about 175 Indian companies located in major cities, which provides
consultancy to achieve various aspects of environmental management especially
30 ISO: 14001.
B. EMAS: EMAS is a voluntary European scheme that provides external Environmental Management
System Standards
recognition for those businesses that prove that they go further than just
meeting regulatory requirements for environmental issues. To gain EMAS
verification a company/organization must be able to prove that he has
identified and is working with all relevant legislation and have systems in
place to do so on an ongoing basis. The company needs to also prove that
his system meets the ISO 14001 standard. It is possible to gain and maintain
both ISO 14001 certification and EMAS verification at the same time.
C. BS 8555: BS 8555 is a British standard that provides directions for
implementing an EMS on a phase-by-phase basis and it can be a good
approach of working towards either ISO 14001 or the Eco-Management
and Audit Scheme (EMAS). A company can gain independent recognition
for his efforts to follow BS 8555 by using Acorn, Green Ticks and Seren
(any one) accredited schemes of United Kingdom Accreditation Services
(UKAS). Acorn, is run by the Institute of Environmental Management
and Assessment (IEMA), and focuses on environmental improvements
that are linked to business competitiveness and is flexible so that all types
of organisation, regardless of their size, can participate. Green Ticks, which
is run by the Green Business Partnership is a unique to Scottish businesses
and organisations and is recognised throughout the UK and Ireland. Seren
is managed by Tarian Inspection Services.

2.5 ASSESSMENT OF EMS


The EMS focus on about the action needed to meet organization/company
environmental goals, about the tools (training, procedures, and resources)
required to meet them, and reviewing the progress so that one can continue to
get closer and closer to the goals. It can be carried out itself by the company as
it provide a clear picture about what already exists and where improvement is
required for EMS. The assessment can be carried through following methods:
i) Monitoring and Assessment: The motivation for monitoring and
measurement is to assess company’s current environmental performance,
identify main causes of the problems if exist, aim areas that need corrective
action, and ultimately improve performance and increase efficiency. As
the key operations and activities that could potentially significantly impact
the environment are identified, one has to maintain procedures to track
key characteristics of these operations i.e.
 Track performance and conformance with environmental goals.
 Calibrate and maintain the monitoring devices.
 Review the compliance with applicable regulations and other
requirements.
For this there is a need to do some monitoring for health and safety, quality
assurance and regulatory compliance. Process measures includes the
identification of activities that occur in the process, such as the amount of
material used per production unit or the energy or time or associated with
a particular activity. Outcome measures focus on the results or by-products
from a process, such as the amount of waste generated per production
unit or the level of pollutants in the wastewater. Process measures are 31
Environmental Standards
“leading” indicators and outcome measuresare “lagging” indicators. The number
of manpower trained in spill prevention is a process measure, while the number
of spills is an outcome measure. Generally a combination of processes and
outcome measures are helpful to track performance in an organization.
ii) Non-conformance and Corrective and Preventative Action: It can be
carried out through:
 Investigating the problems or non-conformities.
 Identifying the root causes.
 Identifying and implementing of corrective actions.
 Documenting and tracking of corrective actions.
EMA is carried out by the company itself, then someone has to assign the
responsibility and designate some authority to track non-conformance and
assure corrective action. Corrections should be done as quickly as possible.
People in affected areas (if any) should be promoted to report existing
and potential problems.
iii) Records: Records assessment is necessary to assure reliability and
regularity about the EMS in the company. Well maintained, updated and
easily accessible records showed company commitment to achieve and
maintain EMS. The records will be useful if maintained appropriately,
legible, identifiable, and traceable to the operation involved and need to
be maintained and stored properly for their easy readily accessibility.
iv) Audit: An audit is a good tool to assess the EMS. Audits can be carried
out both internally or by an external agency. Usually internal audit is before
an external audit so that a company will know its weakness and strengths.
The audits should let us know whether system is effective (covers all
areas) and is being properly maintained. The audit results need to be
informed to the affected personnel’s and those responsible for maintaining
the EMS. An EMS audit is to assess about system functioning, to keep
people informed, to collect information, and to correct nonconformities.
Information is regarding providing the environmental performance to the
decision makers and improvement in EMS can be about management,
operation, process design, product design and services improvements are
required? Generally auditing comprises of inspections, enforcement
actions, checking of discharge limits, reportable spills and releases, and
quantities of waste generated and disposed.
v) Management Review: This is the final step needed for the continuation
of improvement cycle for EMS. Management participation is essential
for the success of an EMS in providing an oversight to assure EMS
functioning, and to check whether the company’s objectives and targets
are properly addressed. Management also keep check on resources
utilization and further additional requirements of resources if any. The
review process can take time as it includes independent review of different
related aspects/elements. The reviews include evaluation of reaching
objectives and targets, audit results, evaluation of appropriateness of the
EMS and concerns from interested parties. The review should be
documented, including anysuggested changes and subsequent action. Changes
32
can be regarding raw materials, processes, product line, or services.
Environmental Management
System Standards
2.6 DOCUMENTATION OF EMS
Basically in “Plan Do CheckAct” cycle, documentation deals with preparing and
maintaining records which are associated with under “Do” sub-unit. To establish an
EMS, different types of documents related to policy, procedures, work instructions,
several guidelines, manuals, standard operating practice records and forms are used.
When a document was framed bythe top management, this document comes first in
the hierarchy, but if the document is filled bythe employee, the document is found on
the bottom of the pyramid in the hierarchy. An EMS proper documentation system
is required to collect, analyse, register and retrieve information and it incorporates
EMS structure and various responsibilities of personnel involved. It should be made
available to all appropriate staff and should be kept up-to-date. Documentation
provides directions for the users to access further materials/records as required for
their work. The documentation should explain the EMS and make the relationship
clear to any other management system in operation within the organisation.
Documentation provides directions for the users to access further materials/
records as required for their work. The documents for environmental and other
management systems (such as for quality of safety and health) can be combined
as long as the EMS can be clearly identified, together with the appropriate
interfaces between different EMS documentations and the order of priority.
Environmental effects must be included within safety reviews, operability
studies and risk and hazard effect analysis, etc. In such cases, the EMS
documentation should focus and include the critical areas where significant
effects are covered by other management systems.
The EMS document covers and contains three points:
i) Statement of purpose for each EMS element
ii) Standard operating procedures
iii) Forms, records and plans
Documentation should be readable, dated (should include modification date if
any), signed by concerned manager and readily identifiable.

2.7 EMS STANDARD: ISO 14000 SERIES


ISO is the International Organization for Standardization, established in Geneva,
Switzerland in 1946 to promote international trade by harmonizing standards.
The need for international environmental management standards was assessed
by the Strategic Advisory Group on the Environment (SAGE), a committee
established by ISO in 1991. They recommended development of a standard
and in January 1993, ISO created Technical committee 207 (TC 207) to develop
the ISO 14000 series of 20 standards. TC 207 is composed of various
subcommittees and working groups having representatives from the ISO
member countries who contribute their input to TC 207 through national
delegates. In 1992 the British Standards Institute published BS7750 which
was the first national standard for environmental management systems. The
British Standards Institute had previously published BS 5750, a national quality
management system standard, which had a significant contribution to the
development of ISO 9000. ISO 14001 was largely based on BS 7750; however
it is not as stringent as BS 7750. The International Standards Organization (ISO) 33
Environmental Standards
has developed a series of environmental standards (ISO 14000) that prescribe the
necessary elements for an EMS. ISO has setup international voluntary consensus
standards for manufacturing, communication, trade, and management systems. If an
organization/companyadopts the standard, it makes a clear management commitment
to an environmental policy. The company will form a plan to carry out the policy,
identify activities that significantly impact the environment, and train employees in
environmental practices. The ISO 14000 is discussed in detail in next Unit III.
Check Your Progress 2
Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the unit.
1. Name some environment standards of EMS.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
2. Write names of some Indian certification companies allowed to issue certificates
for both ISO 14001:2004 and ISO 14001:2015 in India.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
3. Mention different methods to assess EMS.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
4. What are the various activities included in EMS audit?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
5. Which document comes first and at bottom in the documentation hierarchy of
EMS?
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

2.8 LET US SUM UP


In this unit, we have understood core elements, prerequisite factors, documentation,
assessment and benefits and limitations about EMS. We got the knowledge about
certified companies in India for EMS. In conclusion, EMS companies will show
34
their commitments towards environment as well compete on international level in Environmental Management
System Standards
termof business. Manyleading, medium and even small companies and organizations
in India as well as abroad have adopted different EMS standards along with
Occupational Health and Safetystandards and saved their resources, reduced wastes
and recieved recognition in their respective fields. As it is difficult to discuss the
elaborative case studies in this chapter, for the student interests some websites are
suggested as examples in References and Suggested Readings section.

2.9 KEY WORDS


Audit : An audit is an “independent and objective
examination of whether practice complies
(fulfils) with expected standards.
Environmental Audit : Defined as a basic management tool
comprising a systematic, documented,
periodic and objective evaluation of how
well environmental organisations,
management systems and equipment are
performing.
Environmental Management A set of processes and practices that enable
System : an organization to reduce its environmental
impacts and increase its operating efficiency.
Environmental Policy : Is a written statement outlining
organisation’s mission in relation to
managing the environmental impacts of its
operations.
EMS Review : It is a formal evaluation of the status and
adequacy of the organisation’s
environmental policy, systems and
procedures in relation to environmental
issues, regulations, changing circumstances
and continual improvement.
Non-conformance : Failure to conform to accepted standards or
a deficiency that seriously harms (weakens)
the effectiveness of the EMS.

2.10 REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED READINGS


Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) (2014): Launching
an Environmental Management System (EMS). Publication Number TM-14-
01, pp: 1-79.
Kulkarni, V. and Ramachandra, T. V. 2006. Environmental Management. TERI
Press, New Delhi.
National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB). (2017) List of
Certification Bodies-EMS, available at: http://www.qcin.org/nabcb/accreditation/
reg_bod_ems.php (accessed on 23.09.2017).
35
Environmental Standards
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2017. Environmental
Management System (EMS) available at: https://www.epa.gov/ems (accessed on
28.06.2017).
WRAP. 2017.Your guide to environmental management systems, Business Resource
Efficiency Guide. Available at: http://www.wrap.org.uk/sites/files/wrap/
WRAP%20EMS%20guide%20Mar2015.pdf (accessed on 28.06.2017)
Suggested websites for case studies and success stories of EMS:
https://www.bsigroup.com/LocalFiles/en-IN/Case-studies/
CFV_ISO_14064_Tata%20Global%20Beverages.pdf (01.10.2017)
http://www.smetoolkit.org/sites/default/files/body-files/en/
ABCCaseStudy1.pdf (01.10.2017)
http://www.smetoolkit.org/sites/default/files/body-files/en/
XYZCaseStudy.pdf (01.10.2017)
http://gpcb.gov.in/pdf/
ENV_SOME_INITIATIVES_IN_GUJARAT.PDF (01.10.2017)

2.11 ANSWERS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS


Answers to Check Your Progress 1
Your Answers should include the following Points:
1. A properly designed EMS should follow the “Plan Do Check Act” cycle
and is based on the principle of continuous improvement.
2. The core elements of EMS are environmental policy, planning,
implementation and operation, integration of environmental concerns,
checking and management review.
3. The three components necessary to start an EMS are to raise management
awareness, appointment of an EMS team and to formulate an
environmental policy.
4. The benefits of implementing EMS are better regulatory compliance,
more effective use of resources, raise investment from banks, better
business increased trade opportunities, pollution prevention, reducing
or eliminating pollution and safety related incidents, and changes in
environmental attitudes.
5. An EMS environmental policy must contain at three commitments i.e.
of promote pollution prevention, comply with relevant environmental
laws and regulations and focus on continual improvement.
6. The different resources required for the successful implementation and
operation of EMS include skilled man power, technology, finance and
infrastructure.
Answers To Check Your Progress 2
1. British standard (BS) 8555, ISO 14001 and EMAS (European scheme).
2. Indian certification companies allowed to issue certificates for both ISO
36 14001:2004 and ISO 14001:2015 in India are: i) International
Certifications Services Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, ii) Bureau Veritas (India) Pvt. Ltd., Environmental Management
System Standards
Mumbai, iii) Integrated QualityCertification Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, iv) Bureau
of Indian Standards, New Delhi, and v) Indian Register Quality Systems),
Mumbai.
3. Different methods to assess EMS can be monitoring and assessment, non-
conformance and corrective and preventative action, records, EMS audit
and management review.
4. The EMS audit comprises of inspections, enforcement actions, checking of
discharge limits, reportable spills and releases, and quantities of waste generated
and disposed.
5. The document framed by the top management comes first in the hierarchy
and the document filled by the employee will comes at the bottom of the
pyramid in the hierarchy.

37
Environmental Standards
UNIT 3 EMS STANDARDS ISO 14000
Structure
3.0 Introduction
3.1 Objectives
3.2 Evolution, Principles and Structure of ISO 14000
3.2.1 The Plan Do- Check-Act (PDCA) cycle
3.2.2 Benefits of ISO14001

3.3 EMS Specification Standards ISO 14001


3.3.1 EMS and ISO 14001
3.3.2 Fundamental Elements of ISO 14001
3.3.3 Significance of ISO 14001

3.4 Implementation of EMS confirming to ISO 14001


3.4.1 EMS Models
3.4.2 ISO 14001: 5 Major Steps to Register
3.4.3 Case Study on Implementation of EMS

3.5 Benefits of Implementing ISO 14001


3.5.1 How it helps
3.5.2 Benefits OF EMS implementation
3.5.3 Major Benefits of ISO 14001

3.6 OHSAS 18001: Comparison to ISO 14001 and ISO 9001


3.6.1 Introduction to OHSAS 18001
3.6.2 Challenges of OHSAS 18001
3.6.3 Benefits of OHSAS 18001
3.6.4 Integrated Management System

3.7 Let Us Sum Up

3.8 Key Words

3.9 References and Suggested Further Readings

3.10 Answers to Check Your Progress

3.0 INTRODUCTION
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), comprising 160 national
standard bodies is coordinated by central secretariat situated in
Geneva, Switzerland. The ISO has established to work in direction of
boosting the advancement of standardization, promoting international
exchange of goods and services. ISO 14000, as family of standards was
developed by ISO/TC 207, Environmental Management Committee and various
sub-committees. ISO 14000 includes 21 published standards subjected to
managing environmental issues across the world. ISO/TC 207 and ISO/TC
176 (Quality Management and Quality Assurance) works together to run the
38 process in systemic manner.
The ISO 14001 defines requirements for an effective Environmental EMS Standards ISO 14000
Management System (EMS) in ISO 14001 series subjected to guidelines
followed by organization. The fundamental elements of ISO 14001 includes
“Plan: Do: Check: Act” (PDCA) cycle which ensures development, continuous
improvement and control of the management system. The ISO 14001 has been
formulated appropriate for any organization. EMS models have its impact in
managing environmental systems including models EMAS, ACC, DOJ, NEIC,
EPA but ISO 14001 is widely accepted and there are 2000 certified
organizations under ISO 14001. There are several benefits of implementing
EMS in sectors such as operation, marketing, environment, finance, likewise
ISO 14001 carries benefits to its users in different sectors.

The Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS) 18001is


compatible with ISO 9001 (Quality) and ISO 14001 (Environment) in managing
system standards. The OHSAS 18001 has its own benefits in terms of flexibility,
voluntary in nature, specific performance, its international recognition and much
more. The Integrated Management Systems (IMS) has been developed with
clear objective to minimize duplication of procedures and working processes.

3.1 OBJECTIVES
After studying this unit, you should be able to:

 explain ISO, ISO 14000 and EMS;

 explain Plan-Do- Check-Act (PDCA) cycle;

 list of ISO family standards;

 list various Benefits of Implementing ISO 14001;

 explain OHSAS 18001; and

 describe Integrated Management system.

3.2 EVOLUTION, PRINCIPLES AND


STRUCTURE OF ISO 14000
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), is located in Geneva,
Switzerland. It is a worldwide union of 160 national standard institutes from
almost all kinds of countries. The main motive of ISO is to boost the
advancement of standardization and associated activities throughout the world,
carrying a vision to promote international exchange of goods and services
along with facilitating alliance in the fields of intellectual, scientific,
technological and economic activity. The outcome of the technical work done
by ISO leads to the development of ISO standards also known as International
Standards.ISO has developed more than 18000 standards complying with the
three main dimensions of sustainable development: economic, environmental
and societal. With time, changing requirements and emerging environmental
issues, all ISO standards are reviewed and revised frequently in order to keep
them remain relevant to the end-users.
39
Environmental Standards
Table 3.1: Evolution of ISO
Year Event
1947 ISO Founded in Geneva
1951 ISO’s first standard was published, i.e. ISO/R 1:1951 Standard
reference temperature for industrial length measurements
1955 3rd General Assembly at Stockholm. At the beginning of 1955,
ISO has 35 members and 68 standards (recommendations). Henry
St Leger is the Secretary General.
1960 International System of Units (SI) – ISO 31 (replaced by ISO 80
000).
1961 DEVCO established in 1961, a committee for developing country
matters and in 1968 introduces Correspondent membership. This
allows developing countries to be informed of International
Standardization work without the full costs of ISO membership.
1971 Two technical committees were constituted in the field of
environment, 1. Air quality and 2. Water quality.
1970’s During this period ISO’s Secretary General OlleSturen focuses
on turning ISO into a truly international organization.
1987 Published its first quality management standard “ISO 9000
family” which addresses various aspects of quality management
and contains some of ISO’s best-known standards.
1995 ISO digitalized
1996 Launched environmental management system standard, ISO
14001.
2005 ISO and IEC’s joint technical committee JTC1 launched ISO/
IEC 27001, a management system standard on information
security.
2008 ISO jointly with ITU and IEC received Emmy Award for work
producing an advanced video coding standard.
2010 Launched ISO 26000, the first International Standard providing
guidelines for social responsibility.
2011 Launched ISO 50001, International Standard providing guidelines
for energy management.
2016 Published powerful new tool, ISO 37001 - the first international
anti-bribery management system standard to combat bribery
2017 Completes 70 years
Source: www.iso.org
Before 1987, ISO developed traditional standards but in 1987, ISO 9000 was
established which laid the foundation for the quality standards, and with time
ISO standards gained importance among nations in and outside of European
Union for business communications. In 1993, ISO constituted the Technical
Committee 207 on Environmental Management aiming to develop international
40
standards for environmental management tools and systems.
ISO/TC 207, Environmental management, the technical committee of ISO, EMS Standards ISO 14000
has developed ISO 14000 family of standards which comprise of 21 published
standards. These standards provide a common framework to effectively manage
environmental issues related to organizations across the world. These guidelines
promise to effect a broadly based improvement in environmental management,
which in turn can facilitate trade and improve environmental performance
worldwide.
ISO/TC 207, work in close proximity with ISO/TC 176, Quality Management
and Quality Assurance, the ISO’s technical committee which developed ISO
9000. The following areas are covered under the scope of ISO/TC 207
documents:
1. Environmental management systems
2. Environmental auditing and related environmental investigations
3. Environmental performance evaluation
4. Environmental labelling
5. Life cycle assessment
6. Environmental communication
7. Environmental aspects in product standards
8. Terms and definition
9. Greenhouse gas management and related activities
10. Measuring the carbon footprint of products
ISO/TC 207 operate along with 30 international organizations. Some of these
organizations include:
1. Asian productivity Organization
2. Confederation of European Paper Industries
3. European Commission
4. Environmental Defense Fund
5. Global Ecolabelling Network
6. International Chamber of Commerce
7. International Institute For Sustainable Development
8. International Iron And Steel Institute
9. Organization For Economic Co-operation And Development
10. Sierra Club, 12. United Nations Environment Programme
11. World Business Council For Sustainable Development
12. World Health Organization
13. World Resource Institute
41
14. World Trade Organization
Environmental Standards
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is also a founder member of ISO,representing
India during the technical meetings of the technical committee of ISO/TC 20,
in which experts from industry and BIS officers take part.ISO 14000 is also
named as IS/ISO 14000 according to BIS. BIS also provides certification courses
to any organization that applies for a set of standards, such as IS/ISO 14001.
However, there are five key principles that cover the family of 14000 standards:
 Principle 1- Commitment and Policy
 Principle 2- Planning
 Principle 3- Implementation
 Principle 4- Measurement and Evaluation
 Principle 5- Review and Improvement

3.2.1 The Plan-Do- Check-Act (PDCA) Cycle


Like all other ISO management systems standards, ISO 14000 is developed
with the same Plan-Do- Check-Act (PDCA) cycle.
Table 3.2: ISO 14000 Family of Standards
ISO 14001 Framework for environmental management systems (EMS)
ISO 14004 Additional guidance and useful explanations for ISO 14001
ISO 19011 Useful for EMS and quality management system audits
ISO14031 Guidance on how an organization can evaluate its
environmental performance.
ISO 14020 Series of standards address a range of different approaches
to environmental labels and declarations.
ISO 14040 Guidelines on the principles and conduct of Life Cycle
Assessment studies
ISO 14064p International greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and
arts 1, 2 & 3 verification standards
ISO 14065 Complements ISO 14064 by specifying requirements to
accredit or recognize organizational bodies that undertake
GHG validation using ISO 14064
ISO 14063 Guidelines on environmental communication
ISO Guide 64 Guidance for addressing environmental aspects in product
standards
*ISO 14045 Provide principles and requirements for eco-efficiency
assessment
*ISO 14051 Guidelines for general principles and framework of material
flow cost accounting (MFCA)
*ISO 14067 Guidelines for the quantification and communication of
greenhouse gases (GHGs) associated with products
*ISO 14069 Guidance to calculate the carbon footprint of the products,
services and supply chain
42
EMS Standards ISO 14000
*ISO 14005 Guidelines for the phased implementation of an EMS to
facilitate the take-up of EMS by small andmedium-sized
enterprises
*ISO 14006 Guidelines on eco-design
*ISO 14033 Guidelines and examples for compiling and communicating
quantitative environmental information.
*ISO 14066 Specify competency requirements for greenhouse gas
validators and verifiers.
* New Standards (Source: www.iso.org).

The development programme of ISO/TC 207 is constantly evolving, driven by


market needs. With time, requirement and emerging environmental issues, all
ISO standards are reviewed and revised frequently to make sure they remain
relevant to the marketplace.

The latest revision published is ISO 14001:2015. These revised guidelinesare


in order tolatest trends, including the increasing recognition by companies of
the need to factor in both external and internal elements that influence their
environmental impacts, such as climate volatility and the competitive context
in which they work. These revised guidelines are designed to make compatible
with other existing management system standards (ISO, 2015).Implementation
of ISO 14001:2015 may be in whole or partial.But, claims of conformity to
ISO 14001:2015 are not acceptable unless all its requirements are incorporated
into an organization’s environmental management system and fulfilled without
exclusion.

3.2.2 Benefits of ISO 14001


In order to obtain the complete benefit of ISO 14001, an implementing
organization is required to give great attention to all the possible area and
activities which may have an environmental impact. By doing so, the
organization can obtain following benefits:

1. Reduced cost of waste management through the reduction of waste


stemming from increased recycling within the organization.

2. Reduced consumption of energy and raw materials and better use of natural
resources.

3. Improved corporate image amongst regulators, customers, and the general


public.

4. Increased employee morale within the company as employee participation


is integral to the success of such a commitment.

5. A framework for continual improvement of the organization’s


environmental performance.

6. The use of an international registration mark portraying the organization’s


environmental commitment, which can lead to increased opportunities
with suppliers, clients, and government organizations.
43
Environmental Standards
3.3 EMS SPECIFICATION STANDARDS ISO 14001
Dear Learners, let us now read about EMS Specification Standards ISO 14001
in the following sentences:

3.3.1 EMS and ISO 14001


Managing natural resources in a sustainable way is considered as main criteria,
which determine the fate of our earth and human beings. In order to fulfil the
increasing demand of growing population natural resources is utilized in a
nonscientific manner which is responsible for environmental problems at global
level such as global warming, ozone depletion etc. In order to handle the
emerging environmental issues, several schemes and standards were developed
and implemented at international level.
Environmental Management System (EMS) is primarily used to address the
impact of an organization on the environment. It helps identify, manage, monitor
and control their environmental issues in a “holistic” manner thereby improving
their environmental performance through the more efficient use of resources
and reduction of waste, gaining a competitive advantage and the trust of
stakeholders.
In general, an EMS should be based upon an organization’s documented
environmental policy and contain the following characteristics:
1. Goals, methods, and a timeline for meeting environmental requirements
and voluntary undertakings.
2. Procedures for maintaining appropriate documentation relating to its
goals.
3. A defined structure and the responsibilities for each task along with the
availability of adequate resources.
4. Corrective and preventative actions as well as emergency procedures.
5. An employee-training plan with periodic updates to define goals of the
EMS, responsibilities, and risks.
6. A plan for periodic auditing of the organization’s performance in
achieving the goals and how well the EMS helps the organization to
achieve those goals
(Cascio 1996; Matthews 2001; Stapleton et al. 2001; Christin et al., 2004).
The ISO 14001 is the international standard that specifies requirements for an
effective EMS in ISO 14000 series.It provides anoutline that an organization
can adopt and follow, rather than establishing environmental performance
requirements. The ISO 14001 standard defines an EMS as ‘‘a management
tool enabling an organization of any size or type to control the impact of its
activities, products or services on the environment”. The ISO in 1996,launched
the international voluntary standard ISO 14001:1996 “Environmental
Management Systems - Specifications with Guidance for use.” In 2004, it was
revised and updated by ISO with the title “Environmental Management
Systems- Requirements with guidance for use.”
44
The ISO 14001:2004 - Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Standard EMS Standards ISO 14000
has been developed to help organizations identify, manage and control the
activities that have an environmental impact. It is adopted by Industrial
companies, service organizations, utility and public bodies worldwide.
There are several benefits for a company which is carrying out the
implementation of an effective EMS. Some benefits are as follow:
 Improved regulatory compliance requirements.
 Open markets and reduced trade barriers.
 Reduction in liability and risks.
 Enhanced credibility among customers and peers.
 Reduction of harmful impacts to the environment.
 Prevention/reduction of pollution and waste, many times resulting in cost
savings.
 Improvements in site and project safety by minimizing injuries related to
environmental spills, releases, and emissions.
 Improved relationships with stakeholders such as government agencies,
community groups, and investors.
 Establishment of a system for continued environmental improvement.

3.3.2 Fundamental Elements of ISO 14001


According to ISO 14001, the concern for the environment should be
concentrated on the surroundings in which the organization operates such as
air, water, land, flora, fauna and human interactions. The clear definition and
differentiation between activities, associated aspects and the resulting
environmental impacts are very crucial to any effective environmental
management system. For successful implementation of environmental
management system, the above aspects should thus be dealt with greater
significance.
The fundamental of all ISO management system standards lies in
“Plan:Do:Check: Act” (PDCA) cycle. The cycle ensures development,
continuous improvement and control of the management system in question.

Fig. 3.1. Flow diagram of ISO Management system standards


45
Environmental Standards
Plan: Implementation of Environmental Management System according
to of ISO 14000 guidelines.
This is the first step to getting certified with the ISO 14001 Environmental
Management Standard. The objective is to define an environmental policy and
establishing good environmental performance. Like with other ISO management
systems, it is important for a given organization that managers must be fully
focused and driven to achieve the relevant requirements. The identification of
operations that interact or might interact with the environment in the future is
where the management team should start. The interactions will either be direct
(as in the manufacturing industry) or indirect (as in the primary sector like raw
materials). In order to be successful, the goals and targets coming from the
management team have to be measurable so they can be reviewed and improved
by organization’s internal audits.
Do: Conducting Life Cycle Assessment and Managing Environmental
Aspects
The PDCA process involves the implementation of the system in the second
stage which has been planned by the management in the first stage. The
implementation of an EMS involves conducting a life cycle assessment and
managing environmental aspects and greenhouse gases. This stage also involves
defining the resources and the members of your organization that is responsible
for maintaining and control of various processes that are put in place. The
members responsible for such processes should be trained and should have
documentation for all procedures and processes including operational and
documentation control and emergency procedures and responses.
Check: Conducting Audits and Evaluating Environmental Performance
In this stage, internal audits are conducted and environmental performance
measured periodically, which ensures that the given organization’s objectives
and targets are being met. The review also includes measuring the greenhouse
gas (GHG) performance. The management team needs to ensure that the
employees responsible for various processes are maintaining and monitoring
them adequately. In order to make the whole audit system more effective, the
organization should keep monitoring the requirements limited to key process
characteristics. The ISO 14001 standard is compatible if the organization already
has a quality system in place. Like other management system standards, there
is a requirement to present documentation outlining the corrective and
preventative actions for various setbacks or processes. This document ensures
continuous incremental improvement and emphasizes the environmental
mindset the organization needs on every level.
Act: Using and Maintaining the Environmental Management System
through continuous improvement.
A planned management review has to be conducted in order to ensure
continuous improvement. This involves:
 Evaluation of audits
 Ensuring the meeting of the organization’s objectives and targets
 Ensuring the meeting of ISO 14001 requirements
46
 Devising improvements to the processes EMS EMS Standards ISO
14000Standards ISO 14000
 Evaluating changing circumstances such as legal requirements
The intention of ISO 14001:2004 is to provide a framework for a holistic,
strategic and systematic approach to the organization’s environmental policy,
plans and actions. The recently revised guidelines of ISO 14001:2015 now
requires:
 Environmental management to be more prominent within the
organization’s strategic direction
 A greater commitment from leadership
 The implementation of proactive initiatives to protect the environment
from harm and degradation, such as sustainable resource use and climate
change mitigation
 A focus on life-cycle thinking to ensure consideration of environmental
aspects from development to end-of-life
 The addition of a stakeholder-focused communication strategy
The improvisation in ISO 14001 guidelines are also focused on expansion
(more and more business areas should get covered by the implemented EMS),
enrichment (more and more activities, products, processes should be involved
in the EMS) and upgradation (improvement in structure and framework of the
EMS through know-how gained by the business when dealing with
environmental issues).

3.3.3 Significance of ISO 14001


The ISO 14001 standard defines an EMS as ‘‘a management tool enabling an
organization of any size or type to control the impact of its activities, products
or services on the environment’’ (ISO 2002). The ISO 14001 establishes a
framework for managing (through the development of formal processes and
procedures) the environmental aspects of an organization. The key elements
of the standard are grouped into five major areas;
(1) Environmental policy, (2) planning, (3) Implementation and operation, (4)
Checking and Corrective action, and (5) Management review.
A unique aspect of the system is that it is designed to be appropriate for any
company, regardless of industry, size, location, and the level of their
environmental responsibilities. The ISO 14001 is a voluntary, consensus-based,
and market-driven standard (Kloepfer 1997).
The ISO 14001 requires:
(1) Committing to comply with applicable legislation and regulations
(2) Implementing a continual improvement process (ISO 1996).
Many firms go beyond the ISO 14001 EMS requirements by adding additional
elements for reforms and public reporting of emissions beyond legal
requirements. For these firms, ISO 14001 is viewed as necessary, but not
sufficient, for effective environmental management (Matthews 2001).
47
Environmental Standards
Every industry and company provides information on their environmental
programs on their website available to the public. Other information that is
available includes toxic release inventory data, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration statistics, and documentation on programs such as National
Environmental Performance Track (NEPT). (Christini et al. 2004)

3.4 IMPLEMENTATION OF EMS CONFIRMING


TO ISO 14001
The management of environment system might differ from each
organization but mostly includes maintenance of wastes, energy consumption,
transport and the materials used. While implementing the environmental
management system the organization has to identify the significant impacts
relevant to its business. The environmental management system should be
built into the existing management structure rather than being a standalone
system. The implementation of environmental management system should
include the following steps:

 Initiation of environmental friendly policy


 Involvement of the person responsible for its coordination

 Formation of relevant legal and other requirements


 Recognition of actual and potential impacts on environment

 Continuous monitoring of the objectives and the progress of the objectives

 Constant review on improvement on performance.

3.4.1 EMS Models


There are several models have been framed for the environmental management
systems out of these the ISO 14001 is the most well-known international
standard. The other models are as follows

 EMAS: European eco-management and adult scheme

 ACC: American care council developed by responsible care model

 DOJ: US Department of Justice “Seven key compliance program elements”


 NEIC: EPA national enforcement investigation center “compliance
focused” EMS

Out of all these models, the highly accepted and practiced one is ISO 14001
standard. This is more similar to the ISO 9001 quality management. ISO 14001,
it helps in improving the organization’s environmental performances with
respect to any applicable legislation. The new ISO 14001 has been published
on September 2015, which includes several new updates. It has strengthened
the commitments of top management and evaluating. There are more than
2,000 organization currently certified with ISO 14001. It also includes 155
countries participating in it. China and Japan holds the highest number of ISO
14001 certified organizations.
48
3.4.2 ISO 14001: 5 Major Steps to Register EMS Standards ISO 14000

1. Gap Analysis: This goes through the methods already followed by the
organization to manage its environmental wastes and the frames the
changes need to be made in order to meet the requirements of ISO 14001.
2. Initial Implementation: Development of implementation strategy which
includes the need for third party registration if the company needs.
3. Pre- registration internal audits: Prior to the official registration of ISO
14001 there must be several internal audits and management review.
4. Registration: The EMS registration audit conformance of the company’s
EMS to match to the requirements specified in ISO 14001.
5. Ongoing implementation: Continuous improvement of EMS according
to the need of the organization. It also depends on the product of the
organization. The fluctuation in overall business has to be calculated.
3.4.3 Case Study on Implementation of EMS
Beers Skanska became the first construction firm in the United States to achieve
ISO 14001 certification in July of 1999. Their environmental policy
encompasses the following seven areas, 1. Regulatory compliance, 2. Prevention
of pollution, 3.Conservation, 4.Emissions and effluents, 5.Ecology and
habitat,6.Hazardous and toxic substances, and 7. Communication.
The goals set up by Beers Skanska EMS:
1. Reduce solid waste by 30% by reducing material use and through recycling
and reusing materials on-site.
2. Reduce energy use by increasing by 10% the number of projects per year
that focus on energy reduction.
3. Reduce air emissions by increasing by 5% the number of projects per
year that focus on air emissions.
4. Further, reduce air emissions by 30% through continuing to encourage
alternative commuting methods for employees.
Beers Skanska implemented ISO 14001 EMS without government or client
pressure. Instead, they chose to fulfill Skanska’s environmental commitment
and gain a competitive edge.. The quality and quantity (about 200 projects at a
time throughout the United States) of projects motivates Beers Skanska’s
subcontractors to meet their demands (Christini et al., 2004)

3.5 BENEFITS OF IMPLEMENTING ISO 14001


ISO 14001 environmental management systems are the most documented and
developed environmental management systems in the world. Currently, there
are over 2,000 certified organizations registered and benefiting from the
supervision provided within the ISO 14001 standards. By implementing ISO
14001 certification one’s organization can guarantee the stakeholders that the
environmental management system (EMS) meets international industry specific
environmental standards. Each and every corporation, whether large or small;
industrial, manufacturing, services, or trade related have an impact on the
49
environment and can hence benefit from the ISO 14001 certification.
Environmental Standards
3.5.1 How It Helps
 It recognizes and creates the significance of all your environmental impacts.
 It implements efficient operational controls to administer your
environmental impacts.
 It advances the effective employment of natural materials.
 It builds you to take account of legal requirements while setting up,
implementing and maintaining your ISO 14001 system.
 It ensures you to execute to complying with appropriate legal requirements.
 It makes you communicate significant information on legal and other
requirements to employees and concerned parties.
 It illustrates that environmental impacts are the main concern.
 It restores the confidence of the stakeholders that best practice systems
are in place.
 It makes sure you persistently develop your sustainable development.
 It exhibits that you are an ethical and credible organization.
 It is internationally recognized.
 It helps to set up long-lasting partnerships with customers and suppliers
at home and abroad
3.5.2 Benefits of EMS Implementation
Cost saving is one of the major benefits in EMS. It allows identifying the
possible efficient way to cut cost and improve the quality of the product. The
benefits include
Operational benefits:
 Reduces pollution
 Less operating cost
 Makes the working place safer
 The change of process to give high-quality products
 Downsizing the cost of waste disposal, handling of waste, emissions, and
discharges
 The development and the transfer of knowledge within the company
Environmental Benefits:
 Reduction in non- hazardous and hazardous waste
 Helps in conserving natural resources like gas, electricity, space and water.
 Pollution and the disposal of waste can be highly controlled.
Marketing Benefits:
 Assist in demonstrating the customers and the stock holders that firm
meets the environmental expectations.
50
 The purchasing requirements meet the potential national and international EMS Standards ISO 14000
standards.
 Equips with a competitive marketing tool.
FinancialBenefits:
 It improves the relationship with insurance companies.
 Improves accountability and reduces risk
 Meet the expectation of stakeholders and customers
 Cost savings by the reduction of material and energy input

3.5.3 Major Benefits of ISO 14001


Apart from the apparent benefit to improving the environment, the complete system
from top management to the grass root level should know why this is important for
an organization. Not all of the benefits signify the same thing to everyone at an
organization, but the followings are few of the key benefits,

Improving Image and Credibility

With the increasing awareness on environmental pollution, now consumers are more
concerned about the environmental practices of the companies that manufacture the
products they use.Inorder to assure the consumers that a company is managing the
environmental impact is byadoptingeffective EMS guidelines(ISO 14001) through
which the impact can be recognized and managed. This can improve the image of
the company, help them to maintain a good public image, and improve community
relations.Through this, they get better market share with the interested parties.

Help to Comply with Legal Requirements

Byimplementing ISO 14001 the companywill be benefited byproviding the details


of structure for identifying, monitoringand complying with the diverse environmental
needs. Furthermore, implementing ISO 14001 guidelines the company will assure
the people about their environmental concern and impact management system.

Improvement in Cost Control

All organizations want to decrease costs – this is a fact of life in today’s world
economy.How implementation of ISO 140001 is going to help in reducing cost is
reallyinteresting.At first,the guidelines can be used to identify, control, and reduce a
number of environmental incidents that occur, which can cost a company through
accountability costs of fines, cleanup, and reparations. Further, the improvement in
the features of the environmental management system will help in decreasing costs
by working to conserve the energy and input materials.

Higher Rate of Success when Implementing Changes


While implementing or trying to create the improvements, is is always important to
ensure that a company is working with accurate data, which is considered as a key
element of the ISO 14001 standard. By incorporating the improvement activities in
place, a company can significantly enhance the chances success by tracking the
enhancement through good data collection.
51
Environmental Standards
Enable Quicker Improvement of Processes

An integral part of ISO 14001 requirements is a continual improvement, which can


be used to help the company to shift from small improvements toward greater
enhancements of organizational development. When people are involved in a culture
that utilizes them to work toward common goals of improvement, they are more
engaged overall.

Reduce Employee Turnover

As just mentioned, it is important to create an environment where employees to


concern more about companyimprovements which make themmore engaged overall.
Engaged employees in a group attempt to reduce the company’s environmental
footprint will often have an increased employee focus and retention. For an
organization it is always easier and less expensive to keep employees than it is to
recruit and train new employees.

The prime reason for adopting and implementing environmental management system
through ISO 14001 is to improvise environment by reducing our environmental
footprint of a company or organization. It can be easier to justify the cost of making
these improvements by focusing on these other benefits that can go away from the
simple ideals of environmental stewardship and focus more on the long-term
advantages of employing an environmental management system.

3.6 OHSAS 18001: COMPARISON TO ISO 14001


AND ISO 9001
Dear Learners, let us now read about OHSAS 18001: Comparison to ISO 14001
and ISO 9001 in the following sentences:

3.6.1 Introduction to OHSAS 18001


An Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) provides a
framework for managing Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) activities,
procedures and processes so they become more efficient and a more integrated
part of the overall business operations. The Occupational Health and Safety
Assessment Series (OHSAS) 18001, developed in 1999 focusing on Occupational
Health and SafetyManagement system. The primaryrationale behind OHSAS 18001
is to continuously minimize occupational hazard risk in the workplace, which in turn
improve the company profitability.Additionally, OHSAS 18002 provides guidance
for establishing, implementing or improving a management system which is based on
OHSAS 18001 and demonstrating successful implementation of OHSAS 18001.
It is a documentation intensive system that can be altered and customized to outfit to
organizations particular needs. The OHSAS 18001 was developed to be compatible
with the ISO 9001(Quality) and ISO 14001(Environment) management systems
standards. Hence it is easier to integrate quality, environment and occupational health
and safety management systems standards by organizations.

3.6.2 Challenges of OHSAS 18001


 Originally published as a specification it was not a formal standard, an official
British Standard, nor was it an official International Standard.
52
 It does not state specific Occupational Health and Safety(OH&S) performance EMS Standards ISO 14000
criteria and do not provide a detailed specifications for design of a management
system
 No accreditation scheme based on OHSAS 18001
 Certification bodies can onlyissue non-accredited certificates for OHSAS 18001
(e.g. Certificate of Conformance)
 Cost of Conformance Certificates.

3.6.3 Benefits of OHSAS 18001


 It provides a flexible management system framework
 CompletelyVoluntary in nature
 It allows organization to select from multiple recognition bodies
 It does not require specific performance threshold (i.e. TCIR and DART rates
below peers)
 It can have regulatory violations but still receive recognition.
 It is aligned with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001
 It integrates existing Standards with Health and Safety easier.
 It is internationallyrecognized.

3.6.4 Integrated Management System


Historicallymanyorganizations started byimplementing qualitymanagement system
ISO 9001. Later, looking into the environmental impact of the organization they
began to incorporate environment management requirements from ISO 14001. Many
organizations now look at implementing all three standards to enhance their image in
society and also to prove their concern for environment and their employees.
Implementation and operation of three different management systems within an
organization is a time-consuming, expensive and inefficient process.According to
the integrated management systems (IMS), the organization can minimize duplication
documents and work load, align objectives and reduce costs. An IMS describes
several previously separate management systems grouped together to form a single
system.A management system is integrated when at least two out of three possible
systems are integrated as shown in Fig. 3.
The different possibilities are:
 Quality+ Environment,
 Quality + Health & Safety,
 Environment + Health & Safety
 Quality + Health & Safety + Environment
OHSAS 18001 & ISO 14000 are quite similar to an extent but differ from ISO
9001, structure wise because ISO 14000 and 18000 contains four clauses with
six elements whereas, ISO 9001 contains five clauses with 23 elements. Even
with common system approach, they vary in their content.
53
Environmental Standards
Apart from structure, ISO 14000 comprises of following unique requirements:
1. Environmental aspects and impacts
2. Legal and other requirements
3. Environmental programs
4. Communication
5. Emergency preparedness and response
There are seven common elements in OHSAS 18001, ISO 9001 and ISO
14001
1. Structure and responsibility
2. Training, awareness and competence
3. Document control
4. Records
5. Corrective and preventive action
6. Internal audits
7. Management review

Fig. 3.2: Integrated management system concept

The main objective of IMS is to streamline processes even further and avoid
duplication procedures and working process. However, just because a system
is integrated does not mean less attention is paid to auditing individual systems.
The system must conform to the requirements of the individual standards, in
order to maintain a high level of credibility and effectiveness.
Advantages of Integrated Management Systems
 Consistent objectives, planning, and document management
54  Implementation and Operation of the system cost less.
 Easier internal audits EMS Standards ISO 14000

 No Redundancies, reducing the chance of conflict.


Disadvantages
 Responsibility of QMS and EHS can be conflicted in some organizational
structures
 Documentation can be more intricate.
 External third party audits can be more difficult.

Check Your Progress 1


Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the
unit.
1. What is ISO? Briefly describe its evolution.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
2. What is ISO/TC 207 and explain its involvement in shaping up
Environmental Management System.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
3. Describe the fundamental of ISO management system standards.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
4. Discuss theKey Benefits of ISO 14001.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
5. Explain ISO family standards with respect of Environmental Management
Standards (EMS).
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
55
Environmental Standards
6. Write a detailed note on integrated management system.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
7. Describe OHSAS 18001 and discuss its possible implementation with ISO
14001 and ISO 9001.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

3.7 LET US SUM UP


In 1947, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), founded in Geneva,
Switzerland that has been revised and updated with several norms and standards in
field of intellectual, scientific, technological and economic activitysince past 70 years.
The basis of ISO 14001 built on concept of Plan: Do: Check: Act cycle that
assures development, improvement and control of management system. ISO 14001
comes with benefits regarding cost, consumption of energy, dignity of corporate
sectors and much more. According to ISO 14001, EMS act as a management tool
to control the impact of activities, products and services lead by any organization
and industry. ISO 14001 is well known and widely accepted and practiced standard
among all models of EMS. The integration of OHSAS 18001 with ISO 9001 and
ISO 14001 to manage system standards. OHSAS 18001 concerned with reducing
occupational hazard at workplace.An IMS comes with approach to reduce the risk
regarding quality, environment, health and safetyissues.

3.8 KEY WORDS


International Organization for Standardization, Environmental Management System,
Plan-Do-Check-Act, Occupational Health and SafetyAssessment Series, Integrated
Management System.

3.9 REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED FURTHER


READINGS
1. An introduction to ISO 14000 – Environmental Management System, Bulletin
No. 78/2007.
2. Cascio, J. (1996). The ISO 14000 Handbook, Port City Press, Baltimore.
3. Christini, G., Fetsko, M. and Hendrickson, C. 2004.Environmental
Management Systems and ISO 14001 certification for construction firms.
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, Vol. 130: 3.
4. Intarajinda, R.,Sriamonkitkul, W. andChutiprapat, V., Bhasaputra, P. and
Pattaraprakorn, W. 2011.The successive implement of ISO 9001, ISO 14001
56
& OHSAS 18001 for large enterprises in Thailand.GMSARN International EMS Standards ISO 14000
Journal 5 (2011) 225 - 230
5. Kinsella, J. and McCully, A. D. 2006. Handbook for Implementing an ISO
14001 Environmental Management System. Elsevier Limited.
6. Matthews, D. H. (2001).‘‘Assessment and design of industrial environmental
management systems’’. Doctoral Dissertation, Carnegie Mellon Univ.,
Pittsburgh.
7. www.iso.org (Report : Introduction to ISO 14001:2015)
8. www.advisera.com
9. www.nsai.ie

3.10 ANSWERS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS


Answers to Check Your Progress 1
YourAnswers should include the following Points:
1. Your answer should contain a brief note on genesis, structure and function of
ISO and its evolution. You will find the answer in section 3.1 and 3.2.
2. Your answer should contain a brief note on ISO/TC207 and its involvement in
EMS. You will find the answer in section 3.2
3. Your answer should contain explanation to ISO management system standards
and also explain Plan : Do : Check : Act” (PDCA) cycle. You will find the
answer in section 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
4. You will find the answer in section 3.5
6. Your answer should include some important ISO standards as shown in Table
2 with brief explanation.
7. You will find the answer in section 3.6.4with figure.
8. Your answer should include introduction, challenges and benefits of OHSAS
and discuss its possible implementation with ISO 14001 and ISO 9001.

57
Environmental Standards
UNIT 4 ENVIRONMENTAL LABELING
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Objectives
4.2 What is Environmental-Labeling?
4.3 Concept of Eco-Labeling
4.4 Objectives of Eco-Labeling
4.4.1 Environmental Protection
4.4.2 Inventing and Promoting Environmental Friendly Technologies
4.4.3 Sensitizing the Consumer About Environment Related Issues

4.5 Classification of Eco-label


4.6 Origins of Eco-labeling
4.7 Guiding Principles for Eco-labeling
4.8 Green Claims
4.8.1 Basic Requirements for Green Claims

4.9 Ecomark
4.9.1 Criteria for Ecomark Scheme
4.9.2 Mechanism of the Scheme

4.10 Let Us Sum Up


4.11 Key Words
4.12 References and Suggested Further Readings
4.13 Answers to Check Your Progress

4.0 INTRODUCTION
The population on Earth is increasing day by day especially in developing
countries. This puts a tremendous pressure on every component of the
environment. Industrial development is necessary for any country for livelihood
and other requirements, but it creates a lot of environmental issues. The different
environmental issues like climate change, global warming, ozone layer
depletion, acid rain, loss of biodiversity, deforestation, depletion of natural
resources are examples of some of the burning issues, which received
international attention about 40 years back in the Stockholm conference, held
on 5th June, 1972.
The quality of every component of environment is equally important for healthy
life. Hence, one of the important issues is production of goods by using eco-
friendly technique, which will create less environmental issues. By adopting
this strategy we can save resources not only for future generation but can also
achieve sustainable development. In the same context governments,
nongovernmental organization and financial enterprises throughout the world
58
initiated the program of eco-labeling to make the customer aware about
environment concern. The environmental-labeling is voluntary program of Environmental Labeling
certification of a product in context to its environmental impacts from origin
to end as waste. These environmental labels can play an important role in the
conservation of natural resources and in sensitization of public about importance
of natural resources.
This unit highlights the different issues related to issuing of eco-labels to a product,
its necessity, objectives, principles and origin etc. Moreover, you will be learn more
about Green claims and Ecomark scheme.

4.1 OBJECTIVES
After going through this unit you will be familiar with various topics related to eco-
labeling:
 eco-labeling and their objectives
 classification of Eco-labels
 origin of the Eco-labeling
 guiding Principles for Eco-labeling
 ecomark Scheme of India
 objectives of Ecomark Scheme
 criteria for Ecomark Scheme

4.2 WHAT IS ENVIRONMENTAL-LABELING?


The environmental-labels are a group of labels based upon the environmental
performance of product i.e. positive, negative or neutral impactsof a product
on the environment. Eco-labels are subgroup and they respond to special criteria.
The environmental preferences of a product or service within a specific product/
service category can be identified by an eco-label. It is a tag, which represents
the possible environmental impacts of a product/service during the course of
manufacturing and use.The environmental labels are generally voluntary but
may be mandatory in some cases. According to Environmental Protection
Agency, the three most important components of environmental labelling are:
 Unbiased third party involvement is necessary during certification of a
product
 There should be voluntary/mandatory participation by financial enterprises/
firms and
 The labelling can be positive or negative. If any product has positive
environmental impact then it will be promoted and if any product has
negative environmental impacts then warning will be issued.
International Standards Organization (ISO) is an autonomous body, which looks at
the different goals to be achieved for effective implementation of these labels. List of
some of the standards developed by International Standards Organization (ISO) is
listed below in table 1.
59
Environmental Standards Table 1: Some of the Standards Developed by International Standards
Organization (ISO)
Sr. Nomenclature Used for following
No. of Standard
1. ISO 14020  Deals with labelling standards
 Product marks
 Meanings of marks
2. ISO 14021  Used for providing guidelines for
environmental/green claims
3. ISO 14022  Deals with standardization of
environmental labels
4. ISO 14040 & ISO 14044  Deals with the guidelines for life cycle
consideration
5. ISO 14000 family  Environmental management in
industries
Source: Porrini, D. (2005). Environmental policies choice as an issue of
informational efficiency. The Elgar companion to law and economics, 350
Several steps are involved in implementation of different environmental labels.
The different steps which have to be considered by certification agencyare
listed in table 2.
Table 2: Steps Involved in Labeling and Certification Process
Phases Steps Issues to consider

Assignment of Clear assignment of who is responsible


Preparation
responsibilities for defining criteria, certifying
and
products, and generally administering
Launching
the program
Phase
Selection and Selection of product categories and
determination of determination of certification criteria
product for these categories. Gathering of
categories proposals for certification criteria and
categories from industry, science, trade,
consumers, environmental, and other
public organizations (stakeholder
process)

Negotiation Development of Once product categories are selected,


Phase criteria, standards, the next step is the establishment of
or guidelines requirements that an applicant must
meet to be approved by the eco-
labeling program. For example, if a
labeling program is developed to
overcome trade barriers, then the
60 country’s labeling requirements should
Environmental Labeling
be consistent with labeling
requirements in other countries.
Criteria for granting an eco-label to a
product or service can be limited, or
without limits, as to the number of
products that will qualify for the label.
The group responsible for setting the
criteria may include scientific and
technical experts from both
government and the private sector.
Feedback and comments from
interested stakeholders should be
included before finalizing the list of
criteria. This list should be periodically
reassessed.

Implemen- Certification and Producers, service providers, suppliers,


tation Phase licensing retailers, distributors, importers, and
legitimated institutions may apply for
certification. The awarding process
includes testing and compliance
verification, applicant licensing, and
monitoring (with periodic
reexamination every 2 to 5 years).
Applicants usually have to pay an
application fee, the cost of verification,
and an annual fee for use of the eco-
label; these fees depend on annual
product turnover.
Source: Porrini, D. (2005). Environmental policies choice as an issue of
informational efficiency. The Elgar companion to law and economics, 350
The different environmental labels by themselves may not modify customer
attitude towards these products. However, it is observed that promotion by
integrated campaigns through education and incentives are found to be effective
in changing consumer attitude. More conscious clients tend to take into account
environmental labels along with environmental safety and brand value while
making purchasing decisions. Thus awareness among customer about
environmental labels is most important component. Issues by themselves may
not cause a consumer to use a particular product unless he or she realizes how
buying choices will affect the relevant environmental issue. This is possible
only if product characteristics are clearly presented to the consumers. In addition,
these labels should indicate to consumers what they have read on the label.
There is alwaysthe challenge of the consumers getting confused because of
ambiguity in the presented information. It is therefore essential to standardize
existing labeling procedures. The International Standardization Organization
(ISO) labeling standards try to achieve these goals. IS0 14020 focuses on
labeling standards and deals with product marks and their meanings. Labeling
standards are likely to affect sales and advertising functions.

61
Environmental Standards
4.3 CONCEPT OF ECO-LABELING
Eco-labeling is a technique of certification of a product/process for environmental
concert throughout the world voluntary. Generally, assigning of an ecolabel to any
product indicates that the product is more environmentally safe as compared to
other products in the same category which is not assigned an ecolabel. Actually,
ecolabel is awarded by an independent autonomous body to a manufacturer or
service provider for particular product or service on the basis of their environmental
impacts with due time assessed independently. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is an
important tool, which is used to evaluate the positive and negative environmental
impacts of a particular product. It is done by analyzing the various processes
throughout the manufacturing of a product e.g. raw material used, energy,
manufacturing process and other important factors related to the product. The various
activities carried during LCA inform the customer regarding environmental stress
reductions through origin to end of a product. Eco-labelingfollow a systematic pattern
i.e. setting of criteria, testing, monitoring and awarding of a certificate. The scheme
of Eco-labeling not only encourage the development of environmentally sound and
friendlytechniques but also aware the public about environmental concern. Nowadays
people prefer products with Eco label because of the rising awareness about
environmental issues.

4.4 OBJECTIVES OF ECO-LABELING


It is well known fact that earth is the only planet where we can live. But due to
activities of humans, the environment on earth is deteriorating day by day and as a
result, humans have started to think about earth’s environment since last 50 have
minimum environmental impacts. Eco-labeling is not a veryold concept; it emerged
after the 1992 Rio conference. The different objectives of Eco-labeling are:

4.4.1 Environmental Protection


One of the most important objectives of eco-labeling is to encourage the consumer
to think and prefer an environmentally safe product and service. In this regard,
various possible important objective may be:

 Encouraging the people for efficient use of non-renewable resources so that


future generation can also use these resources.

 Encouraging the people to manage of renewable resources so that they may


remain available for present and future generation.

 Encouraging the people for proper handling and management of chemicals to


minimize detrimental impacts.

 Encouraging the people to obey the principal of 3R’ i.e. reduce, reuse and
recycle the waste materials; and

 Promoting natural resource conservation and preserving biodiversity.

62
4.4.2 Inventing and Promoting Environmental Friendly Environmental Labeling
Technologies
It is well-established fact that when an eco-label is awarded to any product, it
indicates that this product has less environmental impact as compared to similar
product without an eco-label.
 It motivates the manufacturer to invent and develop more and more
ecofriendly products/services.
 These practices encourage the idea of green business with minimal
environmental impacts and create new market for nature lover i.e. growing
a market based upon natural resource products produced sustainably.

4.4.3 Sensitizing the Consumer About Environment Related


Issues
The various countries of the world have adopted the policy of awarding eco-
label to a product with complete information of environmental impacts of that
product.
 The concept of eco-labeling may also helpful in creation of awareness
among the consumers about the environmental issues.
 People prefer to buy the product with eco-label due to environmental
concerns.
 Moreover, it can be used to create awareness among the consumers where
people are less bothered about environmental issues. Hence, awarding an
eco-label to a product sensitize the customers.

4.5 CLASSIFICATION OF ECO-LABEL


There are different types of eco-label for different kinds of product but
International Standards Organization (ISO) has developed three types of
environmental labels and specified the preferential principles and procedures
for each one of them. All the three types of eco-labels are briefed below in
table 3.
Table 4.3: Environmental Labels developed by International Standards
Organization (ISO)
S.N. Number Type Details Parties
1. ISO 14024 Type I It is voluntary and third party Third party
programme of certification certification
of a product, multiple criteria
basis and life cycle assessment
of a product; certificate is
awarded by third party to a
manufacturer by authorizing
him to use this environmental
label with environmental
preferability within a particular
product category and known as
environmental labeling. 63
Environmental Standards
2. ISO 14021 Type II These types of claims are First party
voluntary and self declared by certification
a manufacturer, importer or
distributor for a product and
known as self declaration claims
or green claims.

3. ISO 14025 Type III It is also a voluntary and third Third party
party programme of certification
certification of a product. The
environmental parameters are
assessed by a third party and
reported for product. This
report is re-verified again by a
competent and qualified third
party and known as
environmental declarations.

4.6 ORIGINS OF ECO-LABELING


Environmental degradation and depletion of natural resources have put a
pressure on human to think about ecofriendly technology, energy efficient and
alternate sources of energy. Nowadays, people are more concerned about
environment protection as earth is the only planet where life exists at present.
The issue of environmental concern has brought the government, industry and
consumer on a common goal of environmental protection. We are celebrating
national and international daysto give regard and to spread awareness for
environmental issues. Some of these are celebration of world environment
day, water day, earth day and ozone dayetc. The growing concern about
environmental protection has led to origin of eco-labeling onthe part of
governments, businesses enterprises and the people.
In late 1970s most of the developed nations initiated the process of eco-labeling
for certain products. Germany was the first country of the world that initiated
and implemented the concept of ecolabeling in 1977 and the ‘Blue Angle’ was
the name of first eco-label.After the successful launch of this first eco-label
various other countries e.g. USA, Sweden, Spain, Singapore, Norway, New
Zealand, Korea, Japan, India, France, Austria, Canada etc. started their eco-
labelling programmes. Moreover, at global level eco-labeling scheme is
coordinated by Global Network of Countries (GEN) and India is also the
member of same. The eco-labeling scheme launched by some of the pioneer
countries along with year of starting is shown in table 4.
Table 4.4: Eco-labeling scheme launched by various countries
Country Name of Year Country Name of Year
Programme Programme
Germany Blue Angel 1977 India Ecomark 1991
Canada Environmental 1988 European European 1992
Choice Union Flower
64 Japan Ecomark 1989 France NF-Environment 1992
Environmental Labeling
Nordic White Swan 1989 South Ecomark 1992
Countries Korea
New Environmental 1990 Singapore Green Label 1992
Zealand Choice
Sweden Good 1990 The Stichting 1992
Environmental Netherlands Milieukeur
Choice
U.S. Green Seal 1990 Croatia Environmentally 1993
Austria Austrian 1991 Friendly
Eco-label
Source: Singh, A.P., Raman, N.S. and Waghe, U.P., 2012. Ecomark Scheme in
India. International Journal of Pharma Medicine and Biological Sciences, 1(2).
At present there are approximately 25 countries on the list of Global Network
of Countries (GEN). The first eco-label of India was launched on June 2011
named as ‘The Green Signal’. The list of different eco-labels along with their
logo’s available in India is presented in table 5.
Table 4.5: List of available Eco Labels in India
S.No. Eco Label Symbol Description

1 Energy Efficiency Bureau of energy


Labeling efficiency award star labels
for energy efficiency of
different appliances. It may
be voluntary as well as
mandatory.

2 Certification body Certify organically grown


forSustainable agricultural products and
Development to promote organic logo
internationally as well at
national level.

3 Forest Stewardship Promote forest


Council (FSC) management worldwide,
Chain of Custody voluntarily certify
Certification products derived from
well-managed forests and
allow manufacturer to
promote their products.

4 Good Weave Formerly known as


International RugMark, work for
abolition of child labor and
protecting rights of adult
worker of handmade rug
industry, providing
education to children of
South Asia 65
Environmental Standards
5 Green Globe Promote sustainable
Certification tourism, aware the people
of tourist industry for
saving water, energy, to
improve the environment

6 Organic Certify organically


Certification produce agricultural
products as per
international standards,
promote export of such
products

7 UPS Carbon Promote in the reduction


Neutral green house gases (GHG)
by carbon neutral shipping
programme in India
through purchasing carbon
credits.

8 The Green Signal Developed by IIM,


Ahmedabad for
certification of
environmental preferences
of a product/service.

9 Ecotel Certification Certificate is awarded to


environmentally aware
and sensitive hotels
industry.

10 Fair Trade Work for empowering the


marginal land holding
farmers and farm workers
of the poor nations of Asia.

11 Better Cotton Reducing environmental


Initiative impacts through organic
cotton production and
improving social &
economic conditions of
cotton growing farmers
throughout the world.

12 Global Organic Standardization &


TextileStandards certification of organic
(GOTS) fiber production,
promotion of natural fibers
and promotion and
certification of eco textile
processing techniques.
66
The business enterprises have observed that public is demanding environment friendly Environmental Labeling
products due to environmental concerns. This gave an idea for eco-labeling and
origin of new market of different product/services with a number of environmental
declaration and claims, for example, ‘100% natural’, ‘biodegradable’, ‘eco-friendly’,
‘energyefficient’, ‘low energy’ etc.The products/services with such labels engrossed
the customers who want to lessen the environmental impacts through their buying
habits for a particular product. Sometimes, these labels may threaten the consumers.
Without guiding standards and analysis by an autonomous third party, consumers
may not be convinced that the companies’ assertions assured that each labeled
product was an environmentally preferable substitute.

4.7 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR ECO-LABELING


The combined efforts of government, industryand non-governmental organizations
are equally important for the development of an ecolabel to achieve a specific set of
objectives. There are some guiding principles prescribed byInternational Standards
Organization (ISO) on basis of their personnel experiences. These guiding principles
are discussed in brief below:
1. Voluntary participation: There must be voluntary participation in to an eco-
labeling program by manufacturers, importers, service providers and other
financial enterprises. It means there should not be mandatory condition of
participation for financial enterprises.
2. Compliance to environmental and other relevant legislation:The
environmental aspects and other legislative requirement must be taken in to
considerationwhile implementing an eco-labelingprogramfor a product/service.
Moreover, before issuing of a license for this programme, compliance of
environmental aspect is must.
3. Consideration of ‘fitness for purpose’ and level of overall
performance:Along with legislative compliance, qualityand performance of a
product is to be addressed before awarding an ecolabel to a product.
4. Based on sound scientific and engineering principles:Before awarding an
ecolabel to a product its life cycle assessment must be done scientifically and
fairly which assures the consumers that they can trust the eco-label. It means
ecolabel must be assigned after life cycle review of the product honestly.
5. Criteria must distinguish leadership:The type of criteria, which is developed
and adopted,should be exclusive and represent leadership segment of a product
category from the rest of the category.
6. Criteria must be credible, relevant, attainable, and measurable/
verifiable:It means safeguardingthestrictproceduralnecessities based upon good
ecological science which assures the customers that they can belief the eco-
label and licensing applicants that they will be treated fairly.
7. Independence:The organization authorized forecoleballing should be
autonomous and must have no vested commercial or other interests while
promoting a product.
67
Environmental Standards
8. Open and accountable process:The program can be checked, monitored
and questioned at any time of evaluation of a product i.e. it must be open and
accountable process. Moreover, at each step fair, reliable and equally applied
procedures must be established
9. Flexibility: In order to be reliable and efficient, programs must run in a
professional and cost-effective waysteady with market forces and
necessities.
10. Consistency with ISO 14020 and ISO 14024 guiding principles.
Guiding Principles for Environmental Labeling according to ISO 14020:
i) Precision and accuracy
ii) Avoiding needless trade barriers
iii) Scientific element basis
iv) Provision of information on methodology
v) Life-cycle consideration approach
vi) Minimal administrative burden; open, consensual process provision
of information on products.

4.8 GREEN CLAIMS


The green claims are voluntary and self declared by a manufacturer, importer
or distributor for environmental quality of a product and known as self-
declaration claims or environmental claims or green claims.The information
related to environmental effects and qualities of products and how to use and
dispose etc. are claimed by green claims. These claims help’s consumer in
decision making while buying a product. They also help to increase
consciousness of the environmental issues, enhance consumer understanding
and improve product standards overall.
Actually these statements are not verified by any third party/external source
and not approved by government body. The product label and packaging,
advertisement material, promotional events etc. are used to present
environmental or green claims of a product/service. The various ways can be
used to show claims e.g. words, slogans, symbols, graphics, logos, brand names
etc. and print, electronic and digital media can be used to popularize the product.
International Standards Organization (ISO) and other autonomous bodies have
developed international standard for environmental claims i.e. ISO 14021.The
examples ofsome of the green claims is mentioned below: recycled content,
energy efficient, zero carbon footprint, water efficient, renewable materials,
biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, reduced energy consumption,reduced
resource use,reduced water consumption, reusable& refillable, non toxic and
ozone friendly etc.
In a nut-shell, these green claims should be actual, truthful, accurate and
verifiable by any autonomous organization. Moreover, the customer should
not be misled by false environmental information of a product. It is pertinent
to mention here that sometimes, financial enterprises/firms do not work
honestly. They declare false information in the name of good environmental
68 management and falsely claim the green claims this is known as ‘greenwashing’.
The greenwashing is an unethical practice and misinform the consumers about the Environmental Labeling
environmental preferences of a product. It not only affect the market share of green
label products but also change the mindset of customer who is otherwise sensitive
about green products. The right claim must be scientificallyproven and information
about the same should be availableeasilyto those who want to enquire. Hence, if
anyone wants to investigate about the accuracy of any claim, it would be tedious
and time-consuming task.
The products with diverse type of sloganse.g. ‘eco-friendly’, ‘green’, ‘environment
friendly’, ‘non polluting’, ‘go-green’, ‘sustainable’ etc and pictures of earth, globe,
tree etc. have no meaning in true sense about environmental protection however,
they may mislead the customer and society with false information i.e. claim should
clearly indicate about the environmental component/issue covered.Therefore, an
authentic green claimshouldfollowthe guidelines laiddownbyInternationalStandards
Organization e.g. ISO 14021.
The Basic Requirements for Green Claims
 Should not be misleading
 Should be accurate and verifiable
 Unlikely to result in misinterpretation

4.9 ECOMARK
Increasing concern about environmental issues has give rise to the concept of
green marketing throughout the world. Now, literate and sentientcustomers
demand environmentally compatible products. If manufacturers have to sell
their products in the market then they have to develop it in eco-friendly way
i.e. promoting the concept of green marketing. Moreover, manufacturers
wishing to protect their present market and expand in to new ones may require
green labels. To increase consumer awareness, the Government of India
launched the eco-labeling scheme known as ‘Ecomark’ scheme. In this context
government of India in co-operation with some autonomous organizations
adopted ‘Ecomark’ scheme, and earthen pot i.e. ‘matka’ was selected as the
symbol for the same.

Fig. 4.1 Indian Ecomark logo

The ‘Ecomark’ scheme was notified by Ministry of Environment and Forest,


GOI in 1991regarding certification of environment friendly products. The
scheme is employed to whole of India, voluntary in nature and any citizen/
firm can apply for the labeling of their product/service.The ecomark labels is
issued to the products/service which areenvironmental friendly and meet the
qualityrequirements of Indian Standards and follow the approach of cradle to grave
69
Environmental Standards
i.e. extraction and refining of raw material, manufacturing and at last disposal of
product.The product categories covered underIndian Ecomark Scheme is given in
table 2.
Table 4.6: Product categories covered under Indian Ecomark Scheme
Sr. Category Sr. Category
No. No.
1 Batteries 2 Lubricating Oils
3 Coffee 4 Packaging Materials
5 Cosmetics 6 Paints and Powder Coatings
7 Electrical/Electronic Goods 8 Paper
9 Fire-extinguisher 10 Plastic Products
11 Food Additives 12 Soaps & Detergents
13 Food Items 14 Textiles
15 Leather 16 Wood Substitutes
17 Aerosol Propellants

Source: http://cercenvis.nic.in/cited on21.04.2018.

4.9.1 Criteria for Ecomark Scheme


Basically it is based upon cradle to grave principal i.e. extraction and refining
of raw material, manufacturing of a product and at lat disposal of product
safely.The various factors identified while choosing a product for ecomarkare:
 Causing less environmental pollution as compare to other similar product.
 Made up of renewable natural resources as compare to other similar
product.
 Can be recycled as compare to the other similar product which is not
recyclable.
 Easily biodegradable as compare to other similar product which is not
biodegradable.
 Consume less non renewable natural resources as compare to the other
similar product.
4.9.2 Mechanism of the SCHEME
According to rule three committees are involved in criteria development for
each product category and the award ofEcomark. The three different committees
are as-
1. Steering Committee set up in the Ministry of Environment & Forest
(MoEF)
This most important function of the committee is to decide the product
categories for awarding Ecomark along with other important issues e.g.
70 promotion, improvement and development of the scheme.
2. Technical Committee in the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Environmental Labeling

The various functions of this committee include are- classifying


environment friendly products, reviewing the existing criteria, product
assessment and evaluation of environmental impact of a product.
3. Sectional Committee of the BIS and/or Directorate of Marketing.
The different functions of this committee include are- certification and
award of Ecomark, to review the license, inspection and analysis of a
sample/product etc. Initially label is issued for one year but latter on it
may be continued on the basis of performance. The Bureau of Indian
standards have power to withdraw the license at any time if firm found
guilty or giving false information regarding the product. The scheme
was developed for a good cause but does not gain desired popularity.
Perhaps, it may be due to illiteracy, attitude and lack of knowledge about
the importance of environment.
Check Your Progress 1
Note: a) Write your answer in about 50 words.
b) Check your progress with possible answers given at the end of the
unit.
1. What do you mean by eco-labeling? Discuss in brief about different types
of eco-labels.

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

2. Discuss in detail about steps involved in the process of awarding eco-


labels.

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

3. Write in brief about origin and objectives of the concept of eco-labels.

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

4. Write a brief note on eco-labeling scheme launched by various countries.

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

..............................................................................................................

71
Environmental Standards
5. Write about eco-labels available in India with suitable diagrams and their detail.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
6. What are the guiding principles for eco-labeling? explain in detail.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
7. What are green claim? Describe the concept of green claim in brief.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
8. What is an eco-mark? Discuss about Indian eco-mark scheme.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
9. Explain in brief about criteria adopted for awarding an eco-mark.
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................
..............................................................................................................

4.10 LET US SUM UP


In this unit, you have studied about product developed by taking in to
consideration environmental issues. It is now well established that all the
products developed through extraction to refining have some environmental
impacts through manufacturing, uses and disposal throughout their life. Eco-
labeling follow a systematic pattern i.e. setting of criteria, testing, monitoring
and awarding of a certificate. The scheme of Eco-labeling not only encourage
the development of environmentally sound and friendly techniques but also
aware the public about environmental concern. In today’s world, people prefer
the product with eco-label because of awareness about environmental issues.
There are different agencies at international and national level which issue
certificates to manufacturers for their environmental commitment in the form
of eco-labels, eco-mark etc. The green claims are voluntary and self declared
by a manufacturer, importer or distributor for environmental quality of a product
and known as self declaration claims or environmental claims or green claims.
The information related to environmental effects and qualities of products and
how to use and dispose etc. are claimed by green claims. These environmental
72 labels can play an important role in the conservation of natural resources and in
sensitization of public about importance of natural resources. Beside these agencies Environmental Labeling
product developer can also claim green or environmental claims at their own, but
these claims should be accurate and authentic.

4.11 KEY WORDS


Ecomark : To increase consumer awareness, the Government
of India launched the eco-labeling scheme known
as ‘Ecomark’ scheme.
Environmental-labels : The environmental-labels are a group of labels
based upon the environmental performance of
product i.e. positive, negative or neutral impacts
of a product on the environment.

4.12 REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED FURTHER


READINGS
Devinder Pal Singh (2011). Consumers Attitude for Eco-labels in an Emerging
Economy, Int. J. of Business Policy and Economics, Vol. 4 (1): pp 1-8.
Shekhar D Bhole1, U P Waghe and N S Raman (2013). Eco-marks Indicators
in India. Int. J. Life Sc. Bt & Pharm. Res. Vol 2(4): pp 28-41.
http://cercenvis.nic.in/, www.cercindia.org.
A P Singh1, N S Raman1 and U P Waghe (2012). Eco-mark Scheme in India.
Int. J. Pharm. Med. & Bio. Sc. Vol. 1(2): pp 109-122.
A guide to environmental labels for procurement practitioners of the United
Nations system (2009). UNOPS 2009 available at www.ungm.org.
Environmental labels and declarations How ISO standards help, available at
www.iso.org.
Michanne Haynes. Eco-labelling: Challenges and Opportunities for Small States
and LDCs, Commonwealth trade hot topics issue 95.
Simi T B (2009). Eco-labels: Trade Barriers or Trade Facilitators, CUTS Centre
for International Trade, Economics & Environment, India available at :
www.cuts-citee.org.
Environmental Labeling Issues, Policies, and Practices Worldwide, EPA 1998.
Green Claims – Practical Guidance How To Make A Good Environmental
Claim, available at : www.defra.gov.uk.
Introduction to Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN) InformationPaper, http//
www.gen.gr.jp.
Environmental Labelling: An overview by Sustainable Business Associates
Switzerland www.sba-int.ch.
CERC-ENVIS Centre www.cercenvis.nic.in, www.cercindia.org,

73
Environmental Standards
4.13 ANSWERS TO CHECK YOUR PROGRESS
Answers to Check Your Progress 1
Your answers should include the following points:
1. Eco-Labeling: It is a tag, which represents the possible environmental impacts
of a product/service during the course of manufacturing and use.
2. Step involved in process of awarding eco labels. : Refer to Table 2
3. Objectives of Eco Labeling: (Elaborate on these points)
Environmental protection: One of the most important objectives of eco-labeling
is to encourage the consumer to think and prefer an environmentallysafe product
and service. In this regard, various possible important objective may be:
Inventingandpromotingenvironmentalfriendlytechnologies:Itiswell-established
fact that when an eco-label is awarded to any product, it indicates that this
product has less environmental impact as compared to similar product without
an eco-label.
Sensitizing the consumer about environment related issues.
4. Refer Table4
5. Refer Table 5
6. Guiding principles for eco-labeling: Refer to 4.7
7. Green claim: The green claims are voluntaryand self declared bya manufacturer,
importer or distributor for environmental quality of a product and known as
self declaration claims or environmental claims or green claims. The information
related to environmental effects and qualities of products and how to use and
dispose etc. are claimed by green claims
8. Eco-mark:To increase consumer awareness, the Government of India launched
the eco-labeling scheme known as ‘Ecomark’ schemeThe ecomarklabels are
issued to the products/service which are environmental friendly and meets the
quality requirements of Indian Standards and follow the approach of cradle to
grave i.e. extraction andrefiningofrawmaterial, manufacturingandat lat disposal
of product.
9. Criteria adopted for awarding an eco-mark:
 Causing less environmental pollution as compare to other similar product.
 Made up of renewable natural resources as compare to other similar
product.
 Can be recycled as compare to the other similar product which is not
recyclable.
 Easily biodegradable as compare to other similar product which is
not biodegradable.
 Consume less non renewable natural resources as compare to the
other similar product

74

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