Standards exist for almost all consumer products and services to ensure their safety and quality. 'Management systems' are a type of standard which refer to the systems and processes in place to control how the product or service is produced, rather than relating to the product or service itself.
Environmental Management Systems (EMS) are a type of management system. Management systems also exist for quality, information security, business continuity, energy, food safety, finance and health and safety.
There are various types of EMS, including:
- ISO 14001 - international
- BS 8555 - enables phased implementation of ISO
- 14001 (British standard)
- Eco-management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) - European standard
- Green Dragon Environmental Standard - Wales <br>6) Integrated management (PAS 99) - environmental standards combined with another discipline.
All management systems are voluntary.
