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Since the mid 1960s, public awareness of environmental
issues has grown rapidly.
Environmental legislation is becoming more precise and firm; for
example central government produces environmental targets for local
authorities.
Why do we need to monitor our environmental impact?
Our overall aim is to protect the environment and prevent
pollution.
In order to protect and improve our environment it is essential
that we are able to judge the current state of the environment
accurately.
By assessing the environment on a regular basis we are able to
see the impact of projects and initiatives and also to recognise
areas where more action is required.
How are we monitoring the environment?
Environmental monitoring takes into account the impact of water
usage, waste generation, use of energy, procurement, transport,
biodiversity and property management and construction.
Kent County Council is implementing a formal environmental
management system (EMS), to helping identify and control
environmental impact.
An EMS is a tool for delivering environmental best practice.
This includes improvements in environmental performance and
resource savings.
The impact on our environment is measured against an externally
recognised standard, namely
ISO 14001: 2004 Environmental Management
Systems (link opens in a new window).
How we are using the EMS?
The work of all parts of the council impact upon the environment
and the EMS will assist us in our aim to protect the environment
and prevent pollution.
A team of senior managers has been established as a steering
group charged with the task of addressing our environmental
performance and the way our business is managed.
The council's direct impact on the environment, including the
use of energy, is being addressed on a site-by-site basis, and some
sites have already received accreditation under the ISO 14001
standard.
We are also conducting an assessment of the indirect impact on
the environment resulting from the council's provision of
services. |