Enviro-Mark update
Several of New Zealand’s largest corporates are using the Enviro-Mark® programme to implement credible environmental management systems (EMS) in their organisations.
Enviro-Mark is New Zealand’s leading environmental certification programme and provides the resources and support that businesses need to implement a credible and effective EMS, says Enviro-Mark consultant Chris Bailey.
After Toyota’s corporate office had achieved Gold certification in 2011 the company decided to implement Enviro-Mark at all its dealerships throughout New Zealand. This was a significant undertaking and one that reiterated the company’s commitment to sustainability, says Chris.
“They took a collective approach to developing sustainability projects, targeting all their significant environmental effects. Projects include energy efficiency, hazardous substances, procurement, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and correct disposal of washbay water to tradewaste.”
Meanwhile New Zealand’s largest company, and leading global dairy producer, Fonterra, is also expanding its participation in the programme.
The dairy giant undertook a pilot programme at its Takanini site and progressed through each certification level to Diamond (ISO14001 equivalence) by implementing initiatives including waste reduction, energy efficiency and recycling/reuse or organic wastes. Fonterra is now using the Enviro-Mark programme to implement environmental certification for a further six sites around New Zealand.
The five-step, independently audited programme helps these and many more businesses to identify and reduce environmental impacts, save money, and understand legal obligations. They establish and maintain a green advantage that provides a clear market edge, Chris says.
KiwiRail recently initiated a pilot scheme at its Tauranga facilities and implementation will provide a template allowing extension to all other New Zealand sites.
And this illustrates one key component of the programme, says Chris.
“The key to Enviro-Mark is its simplicity. We provide easy-to-use checklists, backed up by practical support through our workshops, seminars, question sessions and consultancy services. It takes enthusiasm and commitment, but combined with our tools and support, we get businesses started, highlight a logical sequence for progress, and provide the guidance they need to succeed.”
Chris Bailey
Email: chris.bailey@enviro-mark.com