Where's Your Environmental Management System?

The theme for World Environment Day on 5 June 2023 will focus on solutions to plastic pollution under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution. 

Businesses have a huge role to play in minimising environmental damage. What steps are you taking? 

 
 

Environmental Management Systems are Underappreciated  

We often talk of needing to uphold Safety and Quality standards, but Environmental standards are just as important.  

ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard. It provides a framework to identify and manage risks associated with environmental impacts. That way, businesses can remain commercially successful without overlooking their environmental footprint and responsibilities. Having an effective Environmental Management System can also help you grow sustainably while reducing the environmental impact of this growth.  

The standard considers: 

  • Context of the organisation 

  • Leadership 

  • Environmental objectives 

  • Policy commitments 

  • Performance  

  • Communication 

Case study: Sofitel Melbourne on Collins  

In 2011, Sofitel Melbourne on Collins became the first luxury hotel in Australia to receive ISO 14001 certification for Environmental Management Systems.  

All hotel staff have received EMS training which ensures a whole business, holistic approach to sustainable practice. 

“Certification to ISO 14001 provided immediate benefits to the hotel, not only in terms of our energy resource consumption reduction, but also in a business and staff engagement sense.” 
— Darren Sankaradas, Sofitel on Collins Quality and Risk Manager 

Working towards this achievement involved improvements in four key areas:

  • Waste management: Every year, Sofitel diverts thousands of kilograms of glass, aluminium, plastic, newspaper, cardboard, compost, and other materials to recycling depots. 

  • Energy conservation: Sofitel uses energy-saving lighting and water-conserving appliances, such as showerheads, toilet dams and tap aerators.  

  • Water conservation: Sofitel implements optional towel and sheet exchange programs, allowing guests to participate in conserving energy, water, and detergent.  

  • Purchasing: Sofitel has established purchasing policies to procure and convert environmentally friendly products. 

 

Image sourced from Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.

 

ISO 14001 certification has allowed Sofitel Melbourne on Collins to position itself as a leader in the luxury hotel market. 

“Proof of our success can now be documented in contract proposals when we target major corporate clients and Government for future events and accommodation”, said Mr Sankaradas. 

This case study was sourced from EcoNews.  

Learn more about sustainable practice at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins below. 

Profit and sustainability are not mutually exclusive 

Getting certified demonstrates commitment to and achievement of sustainably managing pollution and resource use.  

Benefits of being an ISO 14001 certified company: 

  • Better environmental management leads to reduced waste and energy use 

  • Improved efficiency leads to lower costs 

  • Demonstrating compliance leads to greater business opportunities 

  • Meeting legal obligations leads to stronger stakeholder and customer trust 

  • Being certified leads to enhanced business reputation and competitive advantage

The business landscape is changing – don’t get left behind 

More than ever, governments, businesses, and customers are placing greater emphasis on sustainability and environmental management. You do not want to get left behind, but you also do not want to get called out for greenwashing.

Showcase your business’ commitment to effective environmental management with ISO 14001 certification.  

Feel free to reach out or visit our website for more information.  

Alicja Gibert