|
AUTHOR(S):
|
Peter G. Prier - pprier@esg.net
ESG International Inc.
Guelph, ON, Canada
Daniel S. Eusebi
ESG International Inc.
Guelph, ON, Canada
David P. Wesenger
ESG International Inc.
Guelph, ON, Canada
|
|
The implementation of environmental management
system based on the principles of ISO 14001 provides a unique challenge
for linear facility organizations. Environmental Management Systems
(EMS) have been established to control potential
adverse environmental and socio-economic effects of corporate activities.
A key component of an EMS is the communication framework and protocols. One
of the unique features of an EMS is the need to consistently address
varying external and internal stakeholder concerns across local, regional,
and national regulatory jurisdictions. Linear facilities often correspond
to extensive geographic areas, which may translate into cultural differences
within the organization and, externally, among a greater number and
diversity of stakeholders. This is less often the case with single
site organizations. Internally, the management system must recognize
and respond to the potential distrust by regional issues and management
approaches. Geographic diversity may also demand mitigation and monitoring
of a wider spectrum of potential environmental and socio-economic
effects from facilities development and operations. To appreciate
the unique interrelationships and geographic diversity of a linear
facility requires a comprehensive and dynamic communication system
to meet the numerous and possibly incompatible internal and external
stakeholder demands. Thorough communication protocols and documentation
are key to an effective linear facility EMS;
stakeholder feedback on the procedures is also critical to ongoing
improvement of the EMS particularly given the need for “continuous improvement
within the EMS.” Keywords:
Environmental management
systems, communications, documentation, differences, stakeholders,
linear facilities
Ref#: 3-8
|