subject: Environmental Management Systems On College and University Campuses [print this page] Environmental Management Systems On College and University Campuses
Complex Environmental Management Issues Face Campuses Nationwide
University and college campuses differ from one another in many ways, yet they all face similar issues when it comes to environmental management: campuses, by nature, have shifting populations, often grow quickly, and tend to face limited resources or budget shortfalls for waste control. Moreover, campuses are dealing with tightened environmental regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and other regulatory agencies.
Money and Reputation Are At Stake
When campuses fail to address their environmental responsibilities, the risks can reach beyond running afoul of regulatory agencies.
Consider the recent case of Drew University which led the university topay $145,000 to the EPA for failing to properly manage hazardous waste. A 2009 EPA investigation found that the campus had haphazardly stored dozens of containers of paint, wood stains, enamels and adhesives in a manner that failed to minimize releases to the environment. The university had also failed to properly identify discarded materials such as mercury, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, formic acid, and nitric acid as hazardous wastes. And the campus had stored hazardous waste without a permit authorizing and regulating such storage.
Regulatory agencies, such as the EPA and OSHA impose steep fines for violations. Campuses can, and have, been fined hundreds of thousands of dollars for failing to do things such as properly labeland dispose of hazardous waste. In addition to the monetary loss, however, comes the risk of damaging the environment and risking apublic- relations image battle. Institutions on the forefront of research and learning certainly don't want "environmental fines" or "hazardous disposal" practices associated with their name.
Campuses Require A Tailored EMS Approach
In the college and university setting an Environmental Management System (EMS) is what's used to address environmental impacts of the campus. An EMS systematically establishes a continuous cycle of planning, implementing, reviewing, and improving processes and actions associated with environmental impacts.
The common paradigm in EMS systems is to take what works in industry and apply it to any setting. However, this "one-size-fits-all" solution doesn't necessarily apply to all situations.
The ISO 14001 EMS model, which was developed for industrial settings, is often the method of choice for campuses. However, it is based on a rigid, process-driven documentation model. In contrast, an EMS designed specifically for a campus will be built with a "plan, do, check, adjust" cycle, allowing for growth and the ability to shift as needed.
How Do You Establish a Thorough System?
When you look for a solutions-provider to help with your campus EMS program, look for the following components:
A program that allows for interrelated and systematic integration of environmental management and institutional practices
An EMS framework that provides measurable results through annual audits
A company that will help you implement a program instead of simply consulting
The resources required to drive compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
A program that eliminates unbudgeted compliance costs
