Our Environmental Management System (EMS) is externally certified to ISO 14001:2015, and supports our Sustainability Policy. The scope of the EMS covers the University Bailrigg Estate, Health Innovation Campus and Chancellors Wharf and covers all campus activities and operations. We are audited every six months by external auditors to ensure compliance with the ISO14001 standard.
Having an EMS provides a clearly structured and documented framework through which our direct environmental impacts and risks can be managed. For example, issues identified during regular environmental audits have helped the university to improve waste segregation and recycling.
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ISO14001 certificateHow does the EMS help us?
The Environmental Management System (EMS) provides a clearly structured and documented framework through which the environmental impacts, risks and compliance requirements can be managed.
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Carbon reduction
Transport is a significant source of carbon emissions for Lancaster University. Procedures developed as part of the EMS have helped gradually reduce emissions from the University vehicle fleet, through the early adoption of electric vehicles and careful control of vehicle mileage.
Waste improvements
Issues identified during regular internal environmental audits have assisted us in improving waste arrangements, security and housekeeping. The improvements have also assisted in improving waste segregation and recycling rates.
External audits
These are undertaken every six months by our external auditors, who check that the system is operating as planned and following the requirements of the ISO 14001 standard. These help us stay compliant and track progress.
What does the EMS focus on?
A series of operational procedures and guidance support the day-to-day activities undertaken across our campuses.
An accordion list of operational procedures and guidance support the day-to-day activities undertaken across our campus accordion
The EMS helps the University reduce the risk of environmental incidents, but also be in a position to manage and contain issues when they occur. A good example is an oil spillage incident, where training provided to Facilities staff on spill response and the easy availability of suitable spill control equipment enabled staff to rapidly respond to, contain and clear up an oil spill.
Identifies relevant environmental legislation and summarises its applicability and requirements to maintain legal compliance.
The University employs many contractors to undertaken maintenance and construction activities. Through the EMS, a joint Environment, Health & Safety induction video and test has been developed so that contractors understand the environmental and health and safety issues and requirements on site.
The Environmental policy establishes the University's overall environmental aims, reflecting the most significant environmental impacts.
To ensure the EMS is operating effectively, internal audits and inspections of procedures, areas and contractors are undertaken on a regular schedule. Issues identified are logged on a non-conformance register until they can be closed out. Annual Management reviews are undertaken to monitor the overall performance of the EMS.