BS 8555 Acorn Scheme Workbook : Phased Implementation of Environmental Management Systems - v. 1 : Phases 1-3

"The BS 8555 Acorn Scheme Workbook" is a companion guide to BS 8555:2003 for all organizations wanting to make a start at implementing an Environmental Management System, with particular focus for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).The workbook gives you the guidance and structure work through the 5 phases outlined in the standard, to work towards an Environmental Management System accreditation, which can be achieved at the end of any phase by external validation via IEMA.

There is also an optional 6th phase that prepares you for ISO 14001 or EU certification.Volume 1 of the workbook focuses on phases 1 - 3 of BS 8555:2003.

This guide breaks each phase down into stages, and then into manageable tasks.

Each stage contains signposts to further reference material and defines its own 'achievement criteria', a set of requirements used by Acorn inspectors to assess effective Environmental Management System implementation.

Each achievement criteria has guidance and examples of typical outputs that would satisfy the requirement. This easy-to-use methodology is ideal for organizations with limited resources as it takes you through the implementation at a pace that is suitable for your needs and means.

Throughout the workbook there are also 'top-tips' and case studies giving examples of how other organizations have interpreted the standard.This guide is designed to: increase efficiency and effectiveness of your business; help you to understand and manage environmental impacts; get recognition for environmental credentials; work towards achieving ISO 14001; and, work towards registering for EU Eco-Management & audit scheme.