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Pollution Prevention > Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Environmental Management Systems (EMS)

An EMS is a set of processes and practices that enable an organization to reduce its environmental impacts and increase its operating efficiency. ISO 14001 is an international standard developed by a technical committee of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)for environmental management systems. The standard was published in 1996 and was updated in 2004. The standard consists of specifications for developing and implementing environmental management systems. ISO 14001 outlines 17 elements that must be followed if a facility wishes to be in conformance.

IDEM has two voluntary recognition programs for businesses and communities that implement an EMS.

  • Environmental Stewardship Program:
    • Indiana entities who achieve environmental objectives through creating and implementing an EMS may qualify to participate in the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). ESP is a voluntary, performance based leadership program designed to recognize and reward Indiana regulated entities for going above and beyond current environmental regulations. In return for their exemplary environmental performance, these establishments will receive program incentives including regulatory flexibility, public recognition, and networking opportunities.
  • Indiana CLEAN Community Challenge:
    • The Indiana Comprehensive Local Environmental Action Network (CLEAN) Community Challenge is a voluntary recognition program for local Indiana government. CLEAN helps communities take steps to plan, develop, and implement a Quality of Life Plan, which is a type of EMS. This plan includes gathering input and support from the community and local businesses.