Reducing CAL/EPA's environmental footprint

The recently published 2002 Environmental Sustainability Index (World Economic Forum) reports that "Of the 68 variables within the ESI, several of the private sector responsiveness measures are among the most highly correlated with the aggregate ESI. As a policy matter, this finding suggests that engaging the private sector in the response to environmental challenges is critical." The California Environmental Protection Agency is enhancing its regulatory role by, among other strategies, encouraging the implementation of environmental management systems by California businesses. In order to set an example for business, and learn first hand about this tool, Cal/EPA is implementing its own EMS. The session will describe the major findings of the 2002 Environmental Sustainability Index and will describe how Cal/EPA is seeking to enhance environmental management practices both in California businesses and for its own operations.