Once charities are identifying areas for improvements in their sustainable performance then trustees may want to look at ways to measure and manage improvements in those areas. A number of websites offer guidance in this area. However, the ISO 14001 and IEMA websites will probably only be useful for large charities.

All the systems described in these websites are costly in terms of finance, resources or both and charities should carry out some form of cost benefit analysis before embarking on any of these processes.

ISO 14001

ISO 14001 is the internationally recognised standard for the environmental management of businesses. It prescribes controls for those activities that have an effect on the environment. These include the use of natural resources, handling and treatment of waste and energy consumption.

Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment

This website is the UK web portal for information, advice and support on Environmental Management Systems (EMS). The website guides you through the range of information now available and is being developed to help everyone from new users through to more advanced professionals.

Smaller charities can use:

The Acorn Scheme

The IEMA Acorn Scheme offers UKAS accredited recognition for organisations evaluating and improving their environmental performance through the phased implementation of an EMS in accordance with BS8555. Acorn offers a unique feature whereby organisations can engage environmental performance indicator (EPI) reporting within the procurement process.

Green Dragon Environmental Standard

The Green Dragon Standard recognises effective environmental management. It offers an environmental management system relevant to the specific needs of companies and organisations and rewards actions taken to achieve environmental improvements.

Within the Green Dragon Standard there are five levels, with each step contributing towards achievement of the International and European environmental standards ISO 14001 and EMAS.

One Planet Action Plans

Small or medium sized organisations like a businesses, charities or colleges looking to 'go green' can develop a One Planet Action Plan.

Using the One Planet Living framework, the plan will help to find cost-effective solutions to reduce your organisation's environmental impacts and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.

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