Environmental Policy

An Environmental Policy is typically a written statement that outlines a Business’ aim, principles and actions to manage the environmental impacts of its business today and into the future.

Key Components of an Environment Policy

You can expect to see the following information contained within the Environment Policy:

• The business mission and information about its operations.
• A commitment to continually improve your environmental performance.
• A commitment to effectively manage your significant environmental impacts.
• The expectations that your business has in relation to external parties such as suppliers and contractors.
• Recognition that you will comply with relevant environmental legislation as a minimum level of performance.
• Education and training of employees in environmental issues and the environmental effects of their activities.
• Monitoring progress and reviewing environmental performance against targets and objectives on a regular basis (usually annually or in the first six months initially).
• A commitment to communicate your business’ environmental aims and objectives to all staff, as well as to customers, investors and other external stakeholders.

What should be included?

An Environmental Policy can cover a range of issues that can include:

• Energy use
• Transport
• Office waste, building waste, and resource recovery
• Recycling of packaging materials
• Minimising waste
• Efficient use of water and energy
• Use of biodegradable chemicals
• Minimising use of solvents and lead-based paints
• Use of sustainable timber or wood products
• Noise reduction
• Phasing out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances

Should you have an environmental policy?

Having an Environmental Policy is not a legal requirement however it is becoming more common for businesses to issue one due to a number of factors including:

• It can be good for business – customers are actively seeking companies that align with their own personal views on the future of our environment (as are employees)
• It can improve your corporate image with stakeholders and customers
• For some businesses, it can ensure you’re acting within the applicable laws
• It can inform employees about your companies expectations and their responsibilities to ensure everyone is on the same page
• It’s the right thing to do for our future generations!

Need an Environmental Policy Template for Australia?

ACXPA Members can access a range of free resources including an Environmental Policy Template – available soon!