As long ago as 1992¹ Our research suggested that businesses were concerned about the environment for several reasons, including:

• a need to reduce pollution because this represents waste and inefficiency;
  
• the requirement for the business to operate within statutory regulations;
  
• the realization that customers were becoming more discerning about whether what they were buying was "environmentally friendly";
  
• a desire to be regarded favourably by the local community and society in general, maintaining a "green" image;
  
• the need to minimize legal and other costs associated with public enquiries and reduce delays in development projects;
  
• the wish to present a responsible company profile and quality workplace to environmentally aware recruits.

We asked how businesses could incorporate sound environmental policies within their operating structure, and be certain that all employees were aware of it and practise the policies which were set out. We indicated that such a question could really only be answered in detail individually for every business, which was where suitably qualified and independent professional advisors were, and are, able to help. This is an area where it is important to separate the sometimes over-zealous campaigning of lobby groups from objective science.

As environmental and ecological aspects of business have continued to become more prominent, especially in the realms of biodiversity and sustainability impacts, we are increasingly asked to assist with the development of corporate policy on these subjects. Our background in industry sets us in good stead: an inherent understanding of business and the importance of the economy means that we have strong commercial awareness – an unusual attribute for an ecological consultancy, perhaps.

We believe that investment in environmental excellence is vital for business. Prudent use of resources, limitation of waste and pollution, sound land stewardship, recycling, conservation of biodiversity, and sustainability generally, all make business sense.

Environmental Policy Statements, often linked to regular biodiversity and other environmental audits as part of an organization's operating strategy, are now commonplace. Such Statements can provide a suitable means of communicating to employees, shareholders, customers, suppliers and the general public details of commitment to the environment. The information provided should include environmental considerations of all aspects of the company's operations, with details of how set objectives are being, or will be, achieved, and any environmental impacts identified requiring remedial action.

We can help you or your professional advisors in the development of corporate environmental policy and its implementation by taking an objective and commercial view, and providing the scientific support for any statements, claims or proposals. We have, for example, been verifying ecological standards and issuing Compliance Certificates for biodiversity and nature conservation management to clients for many years.

It is particularly important to consider the strategic impact of business expansion, especially where this involves new development or use of more or new natural resources. Our experience in impact assessment can be brought efficiently to bear to help you ensure compliance and deliver results that meet best practice and the ecological quality thresholds.

To discuss all your corporate biodiversity and other environmental policy requirements, please phone, email or fax us. You can be sure of a speedy, efficient and friendly response.