Impact of International Environmental Management System on Sustainability Index benchmarking for Small and Medium Enterprise

Venkataraman , Narayanaswamy and Kanesan , Muthusamy (2011) Impact of International Environmental Management System on Sustainability Index benchmarking for Small and Medium Enterprise. In: OIDA International Conference on Sustainable Development, 5-7 December 2011, Palm Garden Hotel, IOI Resort Putrajaya. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Sustainability is becoming an important tool towards our better future. More and more companies are looking into sustainability as their prime focus. Sustainability encompasses responsibilities towards social, energy, water, pollution and economic factors. Sustainability is the ability to sustain. One of the key factors considered for Sustainability Index (SI) is the implementation of international environmental management system, typically ISO 14001 system. As per Malaysian government estimates, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) contribute 37 per cent in the gross domestic product (GDP) of Malaysia by 2010.The objective of the study is to understand the impact of international environmental management system implementation by SME on sustainability index benchmarking. Positive and negative impacts besides concerns for implementing ISO 14001 management system were evaluated. Major barriers were identified as training, resources and cost. Recommendations for implementing environmental management system for SMEs include integration of management systems, eco-mapping, greening of supply chain and corporate reporting. Implementation of environmental management system has a strong bearing on the sustainability index benchmarking. (Abstract by authors)

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