2.4 Implementation of EMS: Constraints and Barriers

2.4 Implementation of EMS: Constraints and Barriers

 ISO 14000 series comprises of many standards but the main standard which provides the guideline for getting certification is ISO14001. Five key elements as mentioned earlier in figure 1.2.1 consist of many sub sections with specific detail and information for setting up environmental management system of any organization. A study conducted by Zhihai (2000) in China found that market competitiveness and strategic capabilities can be achieve with implementation of TQM, similar view stands for EMS implementation. The concept of EMS development and implementation is based on Deming’s rule of Plan, Do, Check, and Act, of quality management system (Watson and Emery: 2004). Similarly, EMS implementation evaluation and assessment is based on the same concept. This section gives idea about the constraints and barriers in implementing environmental management system and its impact on environment.

 Regarding the significance of implementation of EMS, a United Nations International Development Organizations (UNIDO)’s survey in 31, less developed countries, from certification bodies and trade unions indicates the main three reasons stated as

·         “To help demonstrate conformity to environmental legislation

·         To meet overseas consumer demand

·         To reduce cost of implementing mandatory standards”

Second points is the most important that indicates conformity with international standards as an external pressure for environmental performance (Sheldon, 1997: p.170).

 The previous literature shows the identical critical success factors for successful implementation and maintenance of EMS. Similarly, the work has done befor (Babakri, Bennet, Franchetti 2003, Massoud et al 2010, Zutashi and Sohal 2004) regarding the constraints & barriers those which are considered as hurdles in full adoption and implementation of this standard. Moreover, it evident that manufacturing sectors was leading in implementation and certification process than non manufacturing and services sector. However, the supporting bodies like public sector, NGOs, and environmental consulting firms are directly or indirectly striving as well, in same context of full conformance of ISO standard (Quazi: 1999) in different countries regarding the nature of the organization. James (1999: p 338) considered’ the gap between policy formulation, understanding of the issue, implementation requirements and need of the system may be another constraint in implementation of EMS in full.

The main objective of implementation of EMS is to improve the performance of the organization on regularly basis (Massoud et,al 2010) with continuous overall improvement of the management system. For sustainable development, implementation of EMS is unique aspect along with higher management commitment which cannot be ignored (Marcus et al 1997). Top management is responsible to develop environmental policy, resources, capabilities and infrastructure of the organization to confirm that your company is in conformance with demand of EMS. Sassville et al (1997:99) suggested following steps for implementation of EMS

·         “Establishing a structure and responsibilities.

·         Providing training, and ensuring awareness and competence.

·         Establishing external and internal communication.

·         Documenting the EMS.

·         Providing document control.

·         Ensuring operational control.

Most of the environmental experts (Massoud et al. 2010, Quazi 1999, Babakri et al 2003,  Rezaee & Elam 2000, Adams 1990) have consensus that following are the main factors considered as constraints in implementation of EMS or may be considered as critical success factors for successful adoption, implementation and maintenance of EMS.

·         Lack of top management commitment

·         Lack of Awareness

·         Lack of employees commitment and training

·         Lack of Financial resources

·         Cost of certification

·         Unclear responsibility

·         Poor public sector support and weak enforcement of policies

·         Less incentives and rewards

·         Uncertainty about the benefits of certification

·         Week  technical expertise