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EPA New England Environmental Management Systems (EMS)
What is an EMS?
An EMS is a set of management processes and practices that enables an organization to manage and reduce its environmental impacts and to operate with greater efficiency and control.
Many organizations - as diverse as metal finishers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, schools, federal agencies, and administrative office sites - have come to realize both the business and environmental benefits of an EMS. These benefits can include:
- Improved environmental compliance
- Improved environmental performance in non-regulated areas, such as energy and water conservation
- Increased ability to identify pollution prevention opportunities
- Enhanced operational control and efficiency
- Reduced costs
- Improved relationships with regulators
An EMS allows an organization to systematically manage its environmental matters. Use this web site and its links to learn how to develop an EMS and understand why an organization should develop an EMS (EMS Information and Resources).
EPA has long supported the development and implementation of EMSs,
including those based on the international standard, ISO
14001 
. EPA even offers a leadership program (Performance
Track) to recognize top performing facilities that are using
a quality environmental management system.
EPA New England and its state partners are also exploring the use of EMSs in a public policy context through various projects and initiatives.
New England EPA and State EMS Contacts
EMS Implementation and Research Projects
Our Boston office was one of the first EPA regional offices to implement an EMS under the Executive Order 13148, Greening the Government Through Leadership in Environmental Management. Our EMS at the Boston Office was certified by EPA Headquarters in December 2004 and our Chelmsford Laboratory EMS was certified in July 2005. These systems help us ensure that environmental accountability is incorporated in to our day-to-day activities and long-term strategies.
For more information, contact:
Jean Holbrook (holbrook.jean@epa.gov)
(617) 918-1816
Marge Miranda (miranda.marge@epa.gov)
(617) 918-1825