Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)

Stroud District Council has an environmental management system which is compliant with 2 international standards: EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) and ISO 14001.

The Eco-Management & Audit Scheme (EMAS) for UK Local Government is a voluntary scheme to help local authorities manage their environmental impacts in a systematic and considered way. To gain registration under the scheme an authority must demonstrate "continuous improvements in environmental performance" by following the requirements laid down in Circular 2/95 - The Voluntary Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) for Local Government.

The protection and enhancement of the local environment is one of the prime purposes of local government. At the same time there has been a growing awareness of the global and inter-generation dimensions, commonly addressed through the concept of sustainable development. By implementing EMAS, Stroud District Council is addressing many elements of sustainable development at an organisational level as well as ensuring that it is protecting and conserving the environment.

The Council began developing an EMAS accreditable system in May 1996 and achieved formal registration on 31 March 1999. It is annually verified and we have maintained the required standards since.

A copy of the most recent Environmental Statement can be downloaded below, and further information can be found on the Environment and Green Issues page.