Informing Smaller Organizations about Environmental Management: An Assessmentof Government Schemes

Abstract

UK central government has targeted small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) as a focus for efforts aimed at improving the environmental performance of industry. It recognizes that few SMEs are active on environmental management, and has attempted to encourage greater action, through schemes aimed at providing information about what can be done. Four schemes have been launched in as many years. How useful are they for those implementing Agenda 21 in local government?This paper offers description and assessment of two free helplines, a site visit service, and the Small Company Energy and Environmental Management Assistance Scheme (SCEEMAS), which offers financial assistance towards consultancy fees. Methods of promoting the schemes and the responses received from smaller organizations are also examined. The EnvironmentalTechnology Best Practice Programme(ETBPP) Helpline is being used by relatively high numbers of SMEs, while the other schemes have yet to reach the audience they were expected to. Targeted mailshots appear to be the most effective method of promoting these schemes.