In 2009, the European Commission launched a study on the analysis of different non-formal environmental management systems (EMS) and ISO 14001 in relation to EMAS. Therefor adelphi analysed twenty of the most relevant EMSs in terms of their objectives, target groups, geographical scope and affinity to EMAS, among other things. In addition, the study outlines a step-by-step approach that supports organizations in adapting their existing EMS to the requirements of EMAS.
The study also provides useful information for Member States who are considering submitting a request under Article 45 of the new EMAS Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009 (EMAS III) for recognition of an existing non-formal EMS. The structure is user-friendly: for each EMS a separate factsheet and guidelines are available. The guidelines suggest the steps to take to adapt each EMS to the requirements of EMAS. Furthermore, a summary brochure with information on the analysed EMS is provided.