An Environmental Management System (EMS) is a way for farmers to match their business
goals to their care for natural resources; the environment.
It is a system that helps farmers manage the impacts
of farming so the environment is protected and they can work towards improving farm
performance. It follows a cycle for better management.
Figure 1: The EMS process
Most farmers have a business plan and a property plan. An EMS puts these together to
help improve both the business and the farm itself. It is a framework for working towards
your goals and recording your achievements.
Whether you run a small or large operation, in livestock or crop production, an EMS has
something to offer.
Why use one?
Here are some good reasons to consider an EMS:
it helps organise information so you can make better business decisions
you can show others that you are committed to sustainable agriculture and to protecting
the environment
your natural resources will be improving each year as you work towards your goals
your business will gain better access into environmentally-conscious markets
to improve business and industry image
it will help reduce business risks
you can show you are meeting all your legal responsibilities
to improve relations with customers, regulators, employees, neighbours and the community
it will add value and recognition to your property plans
it will link and show-case your best management practices and quality
assurance with your farm plan and environmental efforts.
An EMS will show that improving the environment is central to
your farming success.
What do farmers say?
Hear from farmers about their experiences with EMS-just
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develop a program that will put that policy into practice
take the steps that will make the changes you want
measure and check that you are making progress
review and improve your whole management system.
An EMS starts with setting goals for your farm. It helps you make practical changes
that will gradually improve both your business and the environment. You don’t have to
do everything at once.
An EMS is not for everyone. It takes time and effort to set up, but once you have your
policy and program in place it becomes a natural part of your business. You are in better
control of your farm, the business and your products.
This CD will help you develop an EMS for your farm or enterprise. You will find
practical advice and instruction, examples to follow, and comments from farmers who have
developed an EMS. Questions and exercises will help you check your understanding as you
go. These tasks, once completed and assessed, are a step towards national qualifications
in Rural Production or Conservation and Land Management (see recognition
and qualifications).
