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EPA Works with External Groups Developing Handbook for Wastewater Organizations
Release Date: 09/09/2004
Contact Information:
Contact: Cathy Milbourn 202-564-7824 / [email protected]
(09/09/04) To help utilities better manage their water and wastewater operations, EPA has developed the first Environmental Management System (EMS) handbook along with a steering committee of wastewater industry representatives and other experts. The EMS handbook describes a set of management processes and procedures that allow a utility to examine, control and reduce environmental impacts of its facility operations. The handbook also describes how an EMS can help utilities function with greater efficiency and encourage environmental performance. The handbook provides a systematic approach for utility managers to improve environmental performance, establish effective environmental policies, comply with legal requirements and identify needed resources such as training. This handbook contains experiences and advice from utility managers who have adopted and developed successful Environmental Management Systems. While several wastewater utilities have successfully implemented such systems and have seen significant benefits, until now there has not been a comprehensive guide to help other utilities understand the steps necessary to put an effective EMS in place. The Handbook provides a step-by-step, user-friendly guide for utilities to follow as they develop an EMS for their utility operations. The book also contains numerous examples, tips and other important information that make the EMS process understandable for utilities of all sizes. EPA developed this handbook through a cooperative agreement with the Global Environment and Technology Foundation in coordination with a steering committee of wastewater industry representatives and other experts. The EMS Handbook is available at: https://www.epa.gov/ems/ , http://www.wef.org/ , http://www.amsa_cleanwater.org/ and http://www.peercenter.net/ .
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