How to create an environmental policy [+free template]

Looking to create an create an environmental policy for your company? Nice! Here’s all you need to know.

And guess what? We’ve made it even easier for you. Download our free Environmental policy template to get started right away:

Published: August 2023

An environmental policy is a way for your company to acknowledge that its actions affect the environment and society. It helps you convey your commitment to environmental responsibility plus acts as guidance to your employees on how to achieve that.

However, creating an environmental policy can be a tricky task. But with the increasing demands from stakeholders and even legal requirements – it's kinda a must for staying relevant.

In this blog, we'll cover all you need to know before diving in, including a free Environmental policy template to kickstart your sustainability journey!

What's an environmental policy?

An environmental policy is a written statement that lays out a company’s goals and principles for managing the environmental impacts of its operations and decisions.

You can say that it serves as a guide for the organization, business partners, and suppliers, as it highlights its commitment to addressing and minimizing its environmental impacts. But it also serves as a tangible commitment to its customers and society if communicated externally.

What's the purpose of having an Environmental policy?

Having an environmental policy in place is a powerful tool that can be used in various ways to demonstrate your company’s commitment to environmental policy. With an Environmental policy in place, you can use it as:

Internal guidance and employee engagement: Use the policy to guide team members on environmentally responsible practices within the company. Involve employees in the implementation of the Environmental policy. For instance, encourage them to come up with ideas and initiatives that align with the policy's goals. This involvement fosters a sense of ownership and commitment among the staff.

What to include in a company's Environmental policy

Find the most commonly used components of a environmental policy listed here:

General information of the company's mission: Provide the necessary background for the overall policy.

Tips for a successful environmental policy:

Check out Worldfavor’s Sustainability Advisor, Anna Gustavsson’s, top tips for a successful Environmental policy:

• Keep it real
  Make sure your policy is realistic, achievable, and tailored to your company’s activities.
• Short and sweet
  Keep it concise – just one or two sheets of A4 paper is enough.
• Simple language
  Use easily understandable language, making complex issues clear and accessible whenever possible.
• Transparency is key
  Make it publicly available and always include a date for transparency purposes.
• Top-level leadership
  Approved by senior level and top management, who should take responsibility for implementing the policy throughout the entire company, plus ensuring everyone understands the requirements and works accordingly.
  

Pitfalls to avoid

• Lack of clarity: The policy doesn’t clearly outline what your company does or it’s too general.

About Worldfavor

Worldfavor’s ESG platform helps companies, investors, supply chains, and corporations to manage data and drive sustainability. Improving your ESG performance has never been easier!

Our sustainability experts are on top of the ESG landscape, continuously monitoring market trends across industries and countries. We’re here to support you in setting your ESG scope and ensure the platform stays up to date as the legislation evolves. The best part? No need for consultants! Let's talk more.

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