Land and water pollution

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

What is an EMP?

An EMP is a document created by companies to provide a framework for dealing with the pollution risks associated with their site and activities. In many cases, it simply formalises practices already undertaken on site.

Once a company has an EMP, it has an advantage as far as knowing the legal requirements and managing pollution risks according to best practice. EMPs can also help companies increase efficiencies and reduce costs.

Who needs an EMP?

An EMP will generally be required for sites that undertake moderate or high risk industrial or trade processes (as outlined in ARC's Proposed Auckland Regional Plan: Air, Land and Water and sites that have ongoing pollution issues).

What do EMP's include?

An emergency spill kit

View large image

• A description of activities carried out on site
• Pollution risk identification
• Pollution risk management (structural and procedural controls)
• Roles and responsibilities
• Staff training and awareness
• Emergency preparedness and response
• Inspections and maintenance
• Improvement and review.

How can I create an EMP?

To assist companies develop their own site specific EMP, we have created an EMP Guide. The EMP guide outlines ways you can gather information for your EMP and insert it into the relevant sections of the template.

A key tool to assist in the preparation of an EMP is the Environmental Operations Plan (EOP). This is a comprehensive do-it-yourself audit designed to help your company identify and address environmental issues associated with your activities.

Once your company has completed an EMP, you can then send it in to a pollution prevention officer at the ARC for review and feedback.

Like further advice? Contact a pollution prevention officer on 09 366 2000.