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Environmental Management Systems (EMS)

Environmental Management Systems (EMS). A Smart Choice for Wastewater Utilities Jim Horne U.S. EPA May 5, 2005. What Exactly is an EMS?. Simply a set of procedures and management practices designed to help you manage all your environmental issues

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Environmental Management Systems (EMS)

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  1. Environmental Management Systems (EMS) A Smart Choice for Wastewater Utilities Jim Horne U.S. EPA May 5, 2005

  2. What Exactly is an EMS? • Simply a set of procedures and management practices designed to help you manage all your environmental issues • EMSs use a proven Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology used all over the world EMS gives you a flexible, performance-based approach EMSs can also help integrate other programs like Asset Management

  3. EMSs Provide Real Benefits! • Wastewater Utilities with EMSs/Associated Benefits: • -- Eugene, Ore.– EMS led to national recognition from EPA and reduced inspections • -- Albany, Ore– EMS helped pave the way for needed rate increases • -- Charleston, S.C.– EMS helped with adoption of CMOM program

  4. EPA Is Working with Others to Increase EMS Adoption • National training program– 32 agencies since 1997, including several utilities • National clearinghouse of information for local governments—www.peercenter.net • 11 PEER Centers around the country to help agencies adopt EMSs • Valuable tools like EMS Handbook for Wastewater Utilities

  5. Partnerships are the Key • Working closely with WEF, APWA, ICMA and others to reach out to agencies • WEF and AMSA helped greatly with EMS Wastewater Handbook • WEF sponsoring a full day training workshop at WEFTEC 2005 • Considering more training workshops led by utilities at their locations

  6. EMS and AM Should Work Hand in Hand! • EMS gives you the structure and focus on measurement, monitoring, and results • AM focuses in more detail on activities with major environmental impacts • EMSs for utilities must also address asset management • We need to guard against “stovepiping” between EMS and AM devotees!

  7. Where to Get More Information • www.peercenter.net is a great source of information • Includes case studies, guides, lists of peers, etc. • Also includes a new section devoted to wastewater

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