The Sustainable Business Networks (SBN) are the forward facing business support system run by a number of partners in Hampshire. The partnership is currently running 3 local networks across Hampshire in the North, Central and South of the County.
Local quarterly network meetings bring together engaged and like-minded businesses in an informal setting to consider a different sustainability issue each time. Past meeting themes have included Environmental Management Systems (EMS), Transport, Energy, Marketing yourself as a Sustainable Business, Sustainable Procurement, Staff Engagement and many more.
Free morning and afternoon events combine high-quality presentations from experts within the field, a practical workshop element and networking opportunities. Network members also receive a regular e-mag with news from the sector, information from the SBN and events listings. They also have access to a SBN helpline, a comprehensive website and discounted environmental training.
About SBN
The Sustainable Business Network aims to increase the number of businesses operating to sound sustainable business principles, and to position Hampshire as a leader within the UK’s low carbon economy.
This means helping and influencing businesses to take action on the environmental, social and economic impacts, for example through improved resource efficiency, waste minimisation activities, community engagement, investment in staff and delivering “value added” to the local economy, stimulating demand for green and low carbon products, and representing and promoting Hampshire businesses at the local, regional and national level.
To achieve this it engages with a wide range of public and private sector organisations who share this common interest in order both to provide direct support and assistance to businesses in understanding and acting on sustainable business principles, and to help shape the local, regional and national policies which drive this activity forwards.
Environmental Management Systems
An Environmental Management System is framework to help businesses manage their impact on the environment and comply with Government legislation. Having an EMS can not only help you to reduce your environmental impact but it can also achieve cost saving and demonstrate your commitment to improving your performance to clients. You can set up your own EMS as an internal management tool. Alternatively, there are recognised national and international standards that provide accreditation and external recognition of the standards achieved. EMS standards recommended by Defra include:
- ISO 14001
- EMAS
- BS 8555
To fully contribute to an improved environmental performance, a good EMS should:
- Be implemented at a strategic level and integrated into corporate policy and plans.
- Identify the organisation’s impact on the environment and set clear objectives and targets to improve their performance.
- Be designed to deliver and manage compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
- Incorporate assured performance metrics that demonstrate all of the above.