EPA has developed the first Environmental Management System (EMS) handbook for water and wastewater operations to help utilities better manage their facilities.

The EMS handbook describes a set of management processes and procedures that allow a utility to examine, control and reduce environmental impacts of its facility operations. The handbook also describes how an EMS can help utilities function with greater efficiency and encourage environmental performance.

Through a systematic approach, utility managers can improve environmental performance, establish effective environmental policies, comply with legal requirements and identify needed resources such as training.

The handbook includes practical experiences and advice from utility managers who have adopted and developed successful Environmental Management Systems. While several wastewater utilities have successfully implemented such systems and have seen significant benefits, until now there has not been a comprehensive guide to help other utilities understand the steps necessary to put an effective EMS in place.

EPA developed this handbook through a cooperative agreement with the Global Environment and Technology Foundation in coordination with a steering committee of wastewater industry representatives and other experts.

For more information on Environmental Management Systems for all types of organizations, visit the EPA EMS webpage or the Department of Environmental Protection EMS webpage.

9/10/2004