Living sustainably

Government sustainability

Environmental Management Systems

Government agencies can make significant cost savings and increase efficiency by using an effective environmental management system (EMS). An EMS is a tool for measuring and improving an organisation's compliance with regulations and management of environmental risks.

Environmental Management Policy

Internationally, local government organisations have been able to cut their water and sewerage charges by 45% and halve their waste disposal costs.

Resources for government agencies

Model EMS for Australian Government agencies

Using the Model EMS can help agencies reduce the effort and initial implementation costs involved in setting up an EMS. Some agencies will be able to use the model as an "off-the-shelf" product. For others, it provides an example that they can adapt to meet their own specific requirements. The model EMS incorporates detailed guidance notes and an electronic procedures manual and electronic registers where agencies can enter their information.

To assist agencies tailor the Model EMS, the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts has developed generic tender documents including a scope of works, tender advertisement and selection criteria for adaptation by agencies. Please contact us for further details.

EMS Training Package

Training materials are available in two versions:

EMS for Agencies Forum presentations

Presentations on topics such as waste management, product stewardship, energy efficiency and recycling.

Key

   Links to another web site
   Opens a pop-up window