EMS
Environmental Management System (EMS)
A framework developed by the Ozone Secretariat to mitigate and reduce its carbon emissions in relation to travel and external events.
Environmental Management System
In support of the efforts of the United Nations Secretariat to create climate-smart entities that are aligned with the recommendations made by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in its 2018 special report on the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and related global greenhouse gas emission pathways, 2 and in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its operations and facilities by 2030, the Ozone Secretariat has developed an Environmental Management System (EMS) framework adopted in 2022 to mitigate and reduce its carbon emissions, particularly for its travel and external events. The system will record and report on the activities and outcomes of the work of the Ozone Secretariat.
EMS Policy
The below guides created by the Ozone Secretariat outline the EMS policy strategies and action plans, as well as foundational context, scope and responsibilities aimed at supporting progress against the United Nations System Sustainability Management Objectives 2030.
Environmental Policy for Events (PDF)
Environmental Management System for Event Operations (PDF)
Minimum EMS Requirements for Organiser (PDF)
Green travel and event tips
Attendees are faced with a multitude of choices when participating at an event. As these examples illustrate, small actions can really add-up!
While the Ozone Secretariat is already offsetting the carbon impact of all participants from its meetings, you may be able to consider other ways to reduce your footprint. Action is not required but encouraged where possible. Every little helps and adopting new habits will build up our collective efforts over time. Each action, even just one, makes a difference!
Travel
- Replace short flights with rail trips, if possible.
- Opt for direct routes that avoid additional emissions associated with multiple take-offs and landings.
- Voluntarily lower your flight class to avoid the higher-footprint of business class trips.
- Eliminate 2.5kgs of CO2 by packing one less pair of shoes when traveling by air.
- Use public transit or share transport for local trips.
- Stay at accommodation that is within walking distance of event venues.
During the meeting
- Seek out accommodation that has a green guest programme or have earned an eco-certification.
- Participate in your hotel's linen-reuse programme.
- Shift meals to plant-based alternatives where possible.
- Bring a refillable tumbler for beverages to use at our plastic-free hydration stations.
- Download any electronic documents for use onsite. Print outs will not be provided, but device charging is available.
- Participate in the venue's recycling programme.
For more handy hints and tips to reduce your travel carbon footprint see the below links:
Find flights with lower carbon emissions
100% of events will follow EMS planning procedures by 2025
100% of minimum event organizer guidelines achieved for events by 2025
Ozone Secretariat’s environmental performance
Find out more on the Secretariat's carbon footprint and the wider UN’s environmental efforts to reduce its overall emissions at the system-wide and entity level.
