Policies and plans

FPT Foods has introduced a number of processes to manage and minimise waste disposal. A key part of this process is FPT Foods' Environmental Policy. This is a statement about the position the company holds and what it will do about waste and the environment. FPT Foods also has an occupational health and safety (OH&S) policy, which sets out its position on health and safety issues.

Policies, plans and procedures frequently appear to be complicated documents, but the details are just commonsense steps to ensure our everyday actions and work operations do not pollute the environment.

Environmental management system (EMS)

To ensure the policy is understood and implemented correctly, it must be translated into a set of procedures that covers all aspects of company’s operations. These written procedures are known as the environmental management system (EMS). The EMS at FPT Foods covers three major areas:

• compliance: the company will comply with all relevant laws, codes of practices and regulations
• pollution prevention: the company will reduce or, where possible, eliminate discharges into water, soil and air
• improvement: the company will actively seek ways to improve its environmental performance by setting goals and targets, making better use of resources, generating less waste and training employees in environmental issues.

Most environmental management systems are large and cover many areas of operation. They usually comprise a series of documents. The EMS is an internationally recognised system (ISO –14000) and is subject to audits by outside organisations.

Teamwork

An EMS is designed to prevent problems before they occur rather than trying to solving them after they happen. It involves all levels of the company working as a team. Remember, all plans have to be implemented by people. If we are not willing to do our part, it does not matter how good the plan is; it will not work. Teamwork is essential throughout the company to ensure the environmental performance is maintained and improved.

Benefits

The successful implementation of the EMS has many benefits for FPT Foods, including:

• improved company image: a sound environmental performance and a reputation as a ‘clean green’ company may lead to increased sales
• less ‘red tape’: approvals for expansion, modification, extension or new sites may be easier to obtain if regulating bodies have confidence in the company’s environmental performance
• reduced compensation payments: in the event of an accident or incident, legal liability may be reduced if the company can demonstrate that every possible care has been taken through the EMS
• improved access to markets: entry to particular markets may depend upon having an environmental program in place
• reduced costs: reducing waste and using materials more efficiently may lead to cost reductions and a competitive advantage
• government incentives: government incentives are aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emmissions.