23, Feb 2024
AS 2059: A Comprehensive Guide To Australia’s Leading Environmental Standard

AS 2059: A Comprehensive Guide to Australia’s Leading Environmental Standard

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AS 2059: A Comprehensive Guide to Australia’s Leading Environmental Standard

Australia’s Environment: routine, comprehensive national reporting – ANU Centre for Water and

Introduction

In the face of growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable practices, Australia has developed a comprehensive environmental standard known as AS 2059. This standard provides a framework for organizations to manage their environmental impacts and demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. AS 2059 is widely recognized as a benchmark for environmental management in Australia and has been adopted by numerous organizations across various industries.

Scope and Applicability

AS 2059 is applicable to any organization, regardless of size or industry, that seeks to establish, implement, maintain, and improve an environmental management system (EMS). It provides guidance on identifying, assessing, and controlling environmental impacts, as well as establishing environmental objectives and targets.

Key Principles

The core principles of AS 2059 revolve around:

  • Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) Cycle: A continuous improvement approach that involves planning, implementing, checking, and acting to enhance environmental performance.
  • Risk Management: Identifying and assessing environmental risks and implementing appropriate controls to mitigate them.
  • Compliance: Adhering to relevant environmental legislation, regulations, and other requirements.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Involving stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and the community, in environmental decision-making.

Structure and Requirements

AS 2059 is structured into several clauses that provide specific requirements for an EMS:

  • Clause 4: Environmental Policy: Defines the organization’s environmental policy, commitment, and objectives.
  • Clause 5: Planning: Identifies environmental aspects, impacts, and risks; establishes environmental objectives and targets; and develops environmental management programs.
  • Clause 6: Implementation and Operation: Implements and operates environmental management programs; provides training and awareness; and controls documents and records.
  • Clause 7: Checking: Monitors and measures environmental performance; conducts internal audits; and evaluates compliance.
  • Clause 8: Management Review: Reviews the EMS regularly to ensure its effectiveness and make necessary improvements.

Benefits of AS 2059 Certification

Organizations that achieve AS 2059 certification can reap numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved Environmental Performance: Reduced environmental impacts, waste generation, and energy consumption.
  • Enhanced Compliance: Assurance of compliance with environmental regulations and requirements.
  • Increased Stakeholder Confidence: Demonstrated commitment to environmental responsibility, attracting customers, investors, and partners.
  • Cost Savings: Reduced operating costs through efficient resource utilization and waste management.
  • Improved Risk Management: Mitigated environmental risks and reduced potential liabilities.

Certification Process

To achieve AS 2059 certification, organizations must undergo an independent third-party audit. The audit process involves:

  • Application: Submitting an application to a certified certification body.
  • Documentation Review: Review of the organization’s EMS documentation and evidence of compliance.
  • Site Audit: On-site assessment of the organization’s environmental management practices and performance.
  • Certification: Issuance of an AS 2059 certificate upon successful completion of the audit.

Maintenance and Renewal

AS 2059 certification is valid for three years. Organizations must maintain their EMS and undergo surveillance audits during this period to ensure ongoing compliance. After three years, the organization must undergo a full recertification audit to renew their certification.

Conclusion

AS 2059 is a comprehensive and effective standard for environmental management in Australia. By adopting and implementing this standard, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability, enhance their environmental performance, and achieve numerous benefits. As environmental concerns continue to grow, AS 2059 will remain an essential tool for organizations seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of environmental stewardship.

Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change - CBM Australia Esg Stakeholder Map Environmental Impact Assessment in Australia eBook - The Federation Press
State of the Climate 2020: Bureau of Meteorology What is climate change and what can we do about it?  Climate Council (2023) Australia's Environment in 2019: introduction - YouTube
PPT - Economy of Australia PowerPoint Presentation, free download - ID:5249074 IMPACTS OF THE AUSTRALIAN ENVIRONMENT by Lachlan Nevis on Prezi Next

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