Environmental Management Systems for Sustainable Tourism
Deby Stabler Project Azul Verde January 27, 2016
Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference
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Photo for my story
Source: Take My Trip
About
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EMS for Sustainable Development & Tourism
“As more tourism businesses achieve certification that meets the GSTC standards, the industry will become more sustainable. A good EMS will not only accelerate that process but may also save the company money.”
– Dr David W. Randle, Director USF
“An EMS provides a systematic way to ensure environmental issues are managed consistently and systematically throughout an organization.”
– UNEP
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How Is Your Organization Doing?
projectazulverde.com Source: University of Michigan
Sustainability Assmt
Financial , Social, Environmental Benefits Systematize cost savings, competitive advantage,
healthy business, engage community
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• Streamline operations • Improve communication • Clarify procedures • Increase compliance • Demonstrate
commitment • Reduce environmental
footprint
• Integrate environmental programs
• Drive continual improvement
• Evolve
Operational Cost Savings
• ROI: 9 months – 2 years • 70% environmental performance • Portland TriMet Transportation
– $300K operational, $66K energy
• San Diego Solid Waste Division – $700K, equipment efficiency
projectazulverde.com Source: committee.iso.org,
zerowaste.org
Plan – Do – Check - Act
8 projectazulverde.com Source: Vetter
9
ISO 14001 Overview
Source: ISO 14001 Standard
Design the Approach to Achieve the Goal
• Identify risks/opportunities • Prioritize • Establish goals • Outline steps
PLAN – Do – Check – Act
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Plan – DO – Check – Act
Implement the Plan • Secure resources • Document procedures • Train • Communicate
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Plan – Do – CHECK– Act
Measure Effectiveness & Determine Improvements
• Monitor & measure progress • Adjust
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Plan – Do – Check – ACT
React & Report • Evaluate success • Discuss lessons learned • Report to management and stakeholders • Strive for continual improvement • Begin the annual cycle again
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Who has an EMS?
From Cities…
… to Dive Shops
“Starting small was the key to our success.” • 23% building energy, $1M/year • 75% fuel efficiency, Police cars
– Vehicle Idling Policy • 270M gallons water, $700K, Parks & Recreation
irrigation • Swimmable water • ISO 14001 certification
Achievements
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Source: Sunset Magazine
“As we grow, new staff members benefit from documented plans and tables–it brings them up
to the high bar that is expected.”
• Increased marketing strength • Attract quality customers • Basic SMS, Blue Certified
Achievements
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Source: Eco 6 Scuba Diving
Your Turn: EMS Starting Template
Plan
Do Check
Act
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