What is EMAS (Eco Management and Audit Scheme)
The Eco Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is the official environmental management tool developed by the European Union. It is a voluntary regulation designed for organizations that want to evaluate, improve, and publicly report their environmental performance. Unlike ISO 14001, EMAS requires not only the implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS) but also a validated environmental statement published openly.
Official definition and purpose
EMAS is governed by the EMAS Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009. Its primary objective is to help organizations reduce environmental impact, comply with legal requirements, and gain public trust through transparency.
Is EMAS mandatory or voluntary?
EMAS is entirely voluntary. However, many companies and public administrations adopt it because of its reputation as the highest standard in environmental management within the EU.
EMAS vs ISO 14001
While EMAS incorporates ISO 14001 requirements, it goes further by demanding:
- A verified environmental statement (public document).
- Greater transparency and measurable KPIs.
- Continuous improvement beyond compliance.
See also: ISO 14001 environmental management systems.
Legal framework and stakeholders
EMAS Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009
This regulation sets the foundation of EMAS, detailing obligations such as:
- Environmental review.
- Implementation of an Environmental Management System.
- Regular audits and external verification.
- Public disclosure of environmental performance.
Key stakeholders
- Accredited environmental verifiers: Independent professionals who validate compliance.
- Competent authorities: National bodies responsible for EMAS registration.
- European Commission & EMAS Helpdesk: Provide guidelines and maintain the official EMAS Register.
Benefits, costs, and return on investment
Environmental and reputational benefits
- Reduced environmental footprint.
- Stronger stakeholder trust and corporate reputation.
- Competitive advantage in green procurement.
Types of costs
- Fixed costs: Registration, verification, audits.
- Internal costs: Staff training, system maintenance.
- External costs: Consultants, external audits.
Incentives in Spain and EU countries
Some EU member states, such as Spain, provide tax reductions, recognition schemes, or public procurement advantages to EMAS registered organizations.
How to register for EMAS : step by step
- Environmental review: Identify environmental aspects and legal compliance.
- Environmental policy & program: Define objectives and targets.
- Environmental Management System (EMS): Implement processes based on ISO 14001.
- Internal audit & external verification: Ensure compliance and prepare for validation.
- Environmental statement & registration: Publish the verified statement and apply for EMAS registration.
KPIs required by EMAS and how to measure them
EMAS requires organizations to report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
- Em1: Greenhouse gas emissions.
- Em2: Air pollutant emissions.
- Em3: Energy efficiency.
- Em4: Material efficiency.
- Em5: Water.
- Em6: Waste.
- Em7: Biodiversity.
These indicators must be quantifiable, comparable, and validated by a verifier. Using digital tools and spreadsheets simplifies data tracking.
How to choose an environmental verifier
- Check accreditation: Ensure they are recognized by a national authority.
- Assess expertise: Select verifiers familiar with your sector.
- Request documentation: Ask for proof of accreditation and references.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EMAS?
A voluntary EU scheme to evaluate and improve environmental performance.
Is EMAS mandatory?
No, it is voluntary but widely recognized as the highest standard.
How does EMAS differ from ISO 14001?
EMAS includes ISO 14001 but adds transparency, KPIs, and public reporting.
What are the steps to register for EMAS?
Environmental review, EMS implementation, audits, verification, registration.
Who can register?
Companies, public administrations, and organizations of any size or sector.
What are EMAS KPIs?
Indicators covering emissions, energy, water, waste, and biodiversity.
Where can I find the EMAS Register?
On the official European Commission EMAS website.
The Eco Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) is more than compliance it is a powerful tool for organizations committed to environmental excellence. By adopting EMAS, you not only align with EU standards but also build trust, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability.
