How to set environmental performance targets

Once you have established your key environmental performance indicators (KEPIs) you should use the information to set environmental targets and objectives.

If you have an environmental management system (EMS), the KEPIs will enable you to monitor whether you are improving your environmental performance.

Start an environmental improvement programme

If you don't have an EMS, you should still take a structured approach to using your KEPIs by implementing an environmental improvement programme. This may involve:

• setting up an environmental team or choosing an environmental champion
• brainstorming ideas for improvement
• deciding priorities
• setting targets and objectives
• developing an action plan
• reviewing progress

Environmental action plan

Your action plan should form the basis of your environmental improvement programme. It could contain:

• the major problem areas and causes identified by the KEPIs
• clear targets and objectives so that your business can reduce its environmental impact
• proposed priority improvement measures so that the targets and objectives can be met
• key implementation steps for each measure
• what equipment and materials are needed
• roles and responsibilities of people involved with the action plan
• timescales for the actions to be completed
• the date when the action plan and KEPIs will next be reviewed