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In Australia, an environmental management system (EMS) is best understood as a kind of quality management system. The processes, practices and technologies implemented in an environmental management plan are designed to minimise the impact of construction-related activities.

An EMS can help organisations comply with the Environmental Protection Act of 1993, which states that ‘you must not cause damage to the environment unless licensed’. This essentially explains that you need a licence to pollute. ‘Pollution’ is defined, in this case, as fairly commonplace processes like exhaust emissions from a production plant or the residual gasses and minerals left over from mining operations.

The processes and practices of an EMS not only reduce pollution and other environmental impacts, but it can also increase operating efficiency and reduce costs. It does so by clearly outlining aspects of daily processes like training, record management, inspections, objectives and policies that are affected by considerations of environmental health. Companies that achieve a sound construction environmental management plan are on their way to becoming ISO 14001 series certified.

Environmental management systems are incredibly important to an overall organisational structure. It can set the agenda for company-wide processes, procedures and even allocation of resources.

With a well-designed and implemented environmental management plan in place, an organisation can reap benefits such as:

• Reduction in environmental incidents
• Consistent reputation for compliance
• No issues when it comes to auditing
• Lowered risk of fines for non-compliance
• Clearly defined marketing differentiator that can become a competitive advantage
• Reduction of waste disposal and utility waste
• Increased profitability due to more efficient operations

While these are more corporate-focused objectives and incentives for implementing an environmental management plan, the endgame is environmental protection. These processes ultimately help with pollution prevention and resource conservation.

It’s crucial to control the environmental risks that stem from construction as most construction activities cause major environmental disruption and pollution. Environmental management systems are designed to balance the risks of the construction industry, and hopefully even mitigate them, with the need for human development and the impacts to the environment.

Managing environmental risk requires a blend of theory and practice. Organisations may choose to outsource the creation of an environmental management plan to environmental management companies. Planning, defining, checking and taking action are ultimately the framework for developing this plan.

Generally, and in broad strokes, environmental management systems need the following steps for implementation:

• Developing an environmental policy that aligns with regulations
• Hiring an environmental management company to coordinate this
• Identifying how the organisation interacts with the environment
• Identifying legal and other requirements
• Setting environmental targets and programs to meet these
• Monitoring and measuring progress
• Reviewing the system and environmental performance
• Continually improving these standards and performances

A skilled environmental manager creates and develops an effective environmental management plan for organisations.

Some of their tasks include:

• Developing the strategies, policies, practices and action plans required to maintain compliance
• Coordinating the actions of waste management and pollution control, including recycling, conservation and more
• Auditing, analysing and using reporting tools to measure environmental performance
• Raising awareness and training staff at all levels with new protocols

iseekplant has a nationwide network of quality environmental management contractors operating in all Australian capital cities from Brisbane to Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne to Darwin, Perth and Adelaide. We also offer environmental management solutions in all major towns and cities from Townsville down to the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Newcastle, Geelong and Hobart.

To find the right environmental management company for your project, use iseekplant’s Get a Quote tool. You can also call us on 1300 691 912 or email us at projects@iseekplant.com.au for more information today.

An effective EMS typically includes these aspects:

• A clear environmental policy
• Identification of environmental impacts and legal requirements
• Setting objectives and targets for improvement
• Implementing procedures to meet these objectives
• Monitoring and measuring performance

It also involves regularly reviewing and updating the system and promoting employee environmental awareness.

Environmental management contributes to sustainability by ensuring business practices do not harm the environment. It encourages the use of renewable resources, minimises waste and pollution and promotes the conservation of natural habitats and biodiversity. Focusing on long-term environmental health allows businesses to operate in a way that supports the planet's ecosystems and resources for future generations.

Legal requirements for environmental management vary by region and industry but generally include compliance with pollution, waste disposal, resource usage and wildlife protection laws. Businesses may need to obtain environmental permits, conduct impact assessments and adhere to specific standards or guidelines, such as ISO 14001 for EMS.

To implement an environmental management plan, a business should start by assessing its environmental impact and understanding relevant legal requirements. It should then develop an environmental policy, set achievable goals and establish procedures to meet them. Training employees, monitoring progress and regularly reviewing and adjusting the plan are also critical.

Environmental management costs can include obtaining permits, implementing waste reduction and recycling programs, investing in energy-efficient technologies and training staff. However, these costs are often offset by savings from increased efficiency, reduced waste disposal fees and avoiding penalties for non-compliance.

Environmental management is a key aspect of corporate social responsibility (CSR). By actively managing their environmental impact, businesses demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices, which is increasingly important to stakeholders, including customers, employees and investors. Effective environmental management can enhance a company's reputation, contribute to its ethical standing and strengthen its role in the community.

Construction sites in Australia are subject to a range of regulations and standards to ensure safety, environmental protection, and compliance with building codes. Compliance is mandatory for all residential, commercial, and civil projects.

Key regulations and standards

Adhering to these regulations ensures site safety, legal compliance, and minimises risks of accidents, fines, or project delays.

Yes, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is often required for construction, earthworks, or development projects that could impact the environment. EMPs outline how environmental risks will be managed to comply with regulations and minimise harm.

When an EMP is needed

• Projects affecting waterways, vegetation, or protected land
• Earthworks, excavation, or land clearing that may cause erosion or sediment runoff
• Developments generating noise, dust, or waste
• Projects subject to council, state, or federal environmental conditions

Key components of an EMP

• Environmental risk assessment and mitigation measures
• Site management practices (erosion control, waste disposal, dust suppression)
• Monitoring and reporting procedures
• Emergency response plans for spills or incidents

Having an EMP ensures compliance with environmental laws, reduces project risk, and demonstrates responsible site management.

Environmental management on construction or development sites involves planning, monitoring, and controlling activities to minimise environmental impact and ensure regulatory compliance.

Key components of environmental management

Effective environmental management ensures projects are sustainable, legally compliant, and minimise harm to the surrounding environment.