Potential Challenges
The costs associated with environmental issues can be significant.
In addition to the cost of maintaining permits and records, the cost associated with activities such as hazardous waste disposal, can be substantial. Implementation of an EMS identifies opportunities to reduce those costs through more efficient management and through pollution prevention efforts that reduce or eliminate the source of the problem. This approach also helps avoid costs through better management of risks.
Developing and implementing an effective EMS may also involve some additional costs and pose challenges, including:
- Internal resources, including management and employee time, are required;
- Facility personnel likely will require additional training;
- Consultants may need to be hired;
- Technical resources may be required to analyze environmental impacts and improvement options;
- New technologies may be needed to support environmental objectives and targets;
- Senior management must be committed and provide resources;
- A long-term commitment to EMS is required for success;
- Facility personnel may be resistant to the changes that are necessary to implement an effective EMS; and
- Facility personnel may view EMS obligations as "not part of my job."
For more information on developing a business case for EMS, check out the EMS Business Advantage (PDF) booklet.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-4. Which of the following is considered a potential challenge to an effective EMS?
You forgot to answer the question!