Starting in the mid-1990's SHWEC began providing education and technical assistance that enables businesses, industry and other organizations to plan and implement Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and in particular ISO 14001. Since then companies across Wisconsin have embraced the idea of a complete environmental management system for their company or organization rather than just a piecemeal approach to compliance with regulation.

The EMS movement had a jump start when the major US automobile companies required ISO 14001 certification by their parts suppliers, in order to compete globally. However since that time there is a growing body of evidence that indicates that EMS has become a standard business management practice, just like quality and safety programs.

Recently Wisconsin incorporated EMS in to the Green Tier legislation signed during the last biennium. This continues to both promote and recognize the value of EMS. On a national level hundreds of companies have joined the US-EPA Performance Track which uses EMS as a core requirement in participation.

To learn more about EMS in and what SHWEC can provide for your EMS visit our web site publications section or contact any of our Staff to get started or for additional assistance with your EMS.