A framework for environmental management system adoption and maintenance: an Australian perspective

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a framework for environmental management system (EMS) adoption which can be used by managers to enable them to achieve a faster, smoother, effective and sustainable EMS implementation. This is termed by the authors as “successful” EMS implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework presented is based on an extensive field study conducted in Australia that included a questionnaire survey and in‐depth interviews conducted with practitioners, the results of which have been reported in this and other journals.

Findings

The framework presented covers three distinct phases, namely development, certification and maintenance and continuous improvement. Preliminary assessment of this framework by a group of Australian experts that included four senior managers, one academic and one consultant suggests that this framework is a useful tool for implementing an effective EMS.

Practical implications

Each of the three phases of the framework provides a step‐by‐step approach and a sequential map towards a successful EMS implementation.

Originality/value

The framework has been developed from extensive fieldwork and has been validated by a group of “experts” which comprised of four industry practitioners, one management academic, and one EMS consultant. The framework provides a detailed understanding of the steps involved in the implementation, certification, and maintenance of EMS.

Citation

Zutshi, A. and Sohal, A.S. (2005), "A framework for environmental management system adoption and maintenance: an Australian perspective", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 16 No. 5, pp. 464-475. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777830510614330