Environmental Management System
What is an Environmental Management System (EMS)?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes an environmental management system as, "a continual cycle of planning, implementing, reviewing and improving the processes and actions that an organization undertakes to meet its business and environmental goals". System implementation reflects accepted quality management principles based on the "Plan, Do, Check, Act," model using a standard process to identify goals, implement them, determine progress, and make corrections to ensure continual improvement.
Similarly, the Department of the Army describes an environmental management system as, "part of an organization's overall management system that integrates environmental concerns and issues in the organization's management processes. An EMS addresses organizational structure, planning activities, responsibilities, practices, procedures, processes, and resources for developing, implementing, achieving, reviewing, and maintaining environmental policy".
The Texas Military Forces (TXMF) EMS:
The organization applies the requirements of the International Standard ISO14001:2004 as the TXMF Environmental Management System. The success of the TXMF EMS begins with a mission focused environmental policy. MG Jose S. Mayorga, the Adjutant General of Texas, signed the Texas Military Forces (TXMF) Environmental Policy on 15 July 2009. This policy applies to all Texas National Guard personnel and members of the Adjutant General's department (state, federal, Army, Air, and State Guard).
In addition to complying with environmental laws and regulations, the policy affirms important commitments to:
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Integrate environmental considerations into decision-making at all levels; |
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Assess strategic decisions for balance between environmental considerations and mission requirements to ensure future sustainment of resources and readiness; |
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Establish goals, objectives and measurements to minimize waste, prevent pollution, promote recycling, and conserve energy and resources; |
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Conduct relevant environmental training at team and individual annual training, and; |
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Do what needs to be done to achieve sustainability goals and objectives and continually improve the way we do business. |
To achieve this end, TXMF leadership established a cross-functional team to facilitate EMS implementation. The team includes Army, Air, and State personnel. The TXMF system was designed to facilitate use of Air Force and Army implementation guidance. Leadership reviews the management system on a regular basis and engages in a continual improvement cycle. Conducting audits, correcting findings, implementing relevant operational controls and conducting training are all key elements of the EMS.
The TXMF EMS is designed to achieve desired environmental performance and sustainable operations. Best management practices for TXMF significant aspects are integrated with existing business system criteria throughout the organization. Examples include the application of Army Community of Excellence programs and the U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) new construction criteria.
For more information on the TXMF Environmental Management System and the importance of managing potential environmental impacts and sustaining environmentally friendly business practices contact us through our feedback page.